Primary Cycle (P1 - P5)

Transition to the Primary Cycle usually takes place at age 6, provided students have completed the Early Education cycle of the European Schools or an equivalent preschool program.

Attendance lasts five (5) years and aims to support children's comprehensive cognitive, social, and emotional development, building strong foundations in a multicultural environment. The program is structured gradually, following the students' age maturity:

1. Foundations of Learning (Classes P1 - P2)

In the first two years, emphasis is placed on the smooth integration of children into the school routine and the acquisition of basic learning tools.

• Mother Tongue/Dominant Language (L1): This forms the core of the program. Students learn reading, writing, reading comprehension, and basic rules of oral and written expression in their mother tongue (depending on the language section they belong to).

• First Foreign Language (L2): The teaching of the first foreign language (choice between English, French, or German) is introduced obligatorily right from class P1. In the early stages, the approach is mainly oral, communicative, and play-based.

• Mathematics: An introduction to basic mathematical concepts, numbers, and simple operations is made, using experiential methods that enhance logical thinking.

2. Deepening & Discovery (Classes P3 - P5)

At this stage, the program is enriched and requires greater independence, preparing students for a smooth transition to the Secondary Cycle.

• Discovery of the World: A comprehensive interdisciplinary subject introduced systematically, combining elements of History, Geography, Natural Sciences, Technology, and Sociology.

• European Hours: A unique innovation of the European Schools. Students from different language sections mix and participate in joint cross-curricular activities. Communication takes place in L2 or a common language, actively cultivating tolerance, cooperation, and a European identity.

• Comprehensive Development: The study of the Mother Tongue and Mathematics progresses to more complex concepts, while the learning of L2 is systematised in written and oral language. Additionally, throughout their attendance (P1-P5), children consistently take classes in Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Ethics/Religion.

Books & School Supplies

The procurement of the necessary educational textbooks and materials is the responsibility of the parents/guardians, as the European Schools follow a specific organisational process per school year and language section.

• Annual Book Lists: At the end of each school year (usually in June or July), the school publishes the updated book lists for the following year on its official website, separated by class and language section.

• Book List for the 2026-2027 school year:

Pupil Evaluation and Progress

Monitoring progress in the Primary Cycle is primarily formative and focuses on encouraging the child, without the stress of formal examinations.

• School Reports: Issued two (2) times per school year (usually in January/February and at the end of the year), they detail the academic, social, and emotional development of the child.

• Evaluation System (Formative Approach): Unlike the Secondary Cycle, graded written exams are not conducted. Assessment is continuous and based on classroom observation, participation, daily assignments, and the child's Portfolio.

• Acquisition of Competences: Performance is not strictly graded with numerical marks but is based on the acquisition of specific competences per subject area (e.g., "Acquired," "In progress," "Needs support").

• Promotion and Support: Promotion to the next class—as well as the final transition from P5 to S1—is based on the General Regulations. If a student faces difficulties, the school offers specialised Educational Support programs to assist them in a timely manner.