International curriculum (IPC / IMYC / IEYC): A parent's guide

The International Curriculum is a family of programmes — IEYC (early years), IPC (primary) and IMYC (middle years) — developed in the UK by Fieldwork Education. It's thematic and inquiry-based, often paired with a national curriculum or IB stream for the senior years rather than running stand-alone.

How it fits with other curricula

Schools typically run IPC/IMYC alongside another curriculum — often British, American or Australian — using IPC's thematic units to drive cross-subject learning while the host curriculum handles formal assessment. Few schools rely on IPC for senior secondary; most switch to IGCSE, AP or IB at that stage.

What learners actually do

Units of work are organised around big themes (e.g. "Time Travellers", "Treasure"). Within each, students hit subject-specific learning goals (history, geography, science, art) tied to the theme. Assessment is teacher-led and rubric-based rather than externally examined.

Schools teaching International (IPC/IMYC) on doris

FAQs about the International (IPC/IMYC) curriculum

Is IPC a recognised qualification?

IPC and IMYC aren't externally examined qualifications — they're curriculum frameworks. The recognised qualification at the end of school will be whatever pathway the school continues with (IGCSE, AP, IB, etc.).

Will my child be at a disadvantage moving to a non-IPC school?

No — IPC covers the same subject knowledge as most national primary curricula, just packaged thematically. Transitions between IPC schools and others (British, American, IB primary) are routine.