Private Upper School in New York

NAIS NEW YORK UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM

At our New York City Upper School, students aged 9 to 14 follow a bespoke combination of the English National Curriculum and International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). Throughout this unique stage of their education, your child will grow in confidence and independence as they overcome challenges, deepen their academic knowledge, and flourish as individuals.

A COMBINATION OF UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULA

From Year 5 (or 4th grade in the US system), our students follow a carefully curated combination of curricula. Our bespoke Upper School program is designed to provide the perfect blend of academic challenge and inspiration.

The English National Curriculum is the basis for much of our program of study, including English and math, while handpicked subjects are taught through the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). Our program encourages students to make connections across their subjects. It also enables them to explore the concepts, processes, and skills of each subject in greater depth.

Our comprehensive approach ensures our young people are prepared to succeed at prestigious high schools in New York City – and around the world.

SPECIALIST SUBJECT LEARNING

Unique to our Upper School in New York, all our subjects are taught by specialist teachers. Math, English, science, Spanish, art, PE, and personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) education are taught through the academically rigorous English National Curriculum, while our innovative performing arts program – which includes music, drama, and dance – is delivered through our collaboration with The Julliard School.

We teach history, geography, social studies, and citizenship through two renowned international programs: the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC).

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

At NAIS New York, we believe emotional intelligence and strong relationships are a core component of our students’ all-round education.

Our young people are divided into form groups that span different year groups, which gives them opportunities to build relationships with a wider range of peers. This also encourages mentoring and leadership. Form time, at the beginning and end of each day, features a wide range of activities that develop these skills, as well as a deeper understanding of the world around them.

In Years 8 and 9 at our New York Upper School, learners can join our Student Leadership Team and become a voice for their friends, implementing innovative ideas and developing their leadership skills.

SUPPORTING THE TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL

Upper School is an important time in a student’s education, when they’ll make vital decisions about their future. We work closely with our young people and their families to provide the personal guidance needed to continue their academic journey beyond NAIS New York.

When students graduate from our New York City Upper School at the end of Year 9, they are self-confident, socially conscious, and ready to succeed. Every year, our graduates go on to study at top high schools here, across the US, and worldwide.

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UPPER SCHOOL

A TYPICAL NAISNY DAY

Every day in Upper School is a chance for our students to sharpen their skills, as they explore a variety of subjects and ideas, get creative, and solve problems.

AN ENERGETIC START

We’ll head over to our first classroom, greeting our teachers and peers before centering ourselves to discuss what we’ll get up to across all classes today. We’ll warm up, feeling prepared for a stimulating day ahead.

PREPARED FOR THE DAY

AMBITIOUS ACADEMICS

We seize the day at NAISNY! Every area of learning stimulates and challenges us within small class groups, as we move between English, math, science, Spanish, Physical Education (PE), and art. A specialist teacher guides us in every lesson, encouraging us to perform at our best.

LEARNING ACROSS SUBJECTS

MIDDAY REENERGIZING

We’ll refuel with classmates over a healthy lunch from NAISNY’s in-house chefs at midday. As we reenergize, we’ll also get up to the rooftop for some fresh air and exercise, if the weather permits — or over to the gym for indoor games.

REFUELING FOR SUCCESS

SPECIALIST LESSONS

During specialist lessons from highly qualified teachers across dance, drama, music, Physical Education (PE), the creative arts, or Spanish, we get sophisticated and nurture our strengths. Using different words, movements, or sounds, we’ll build our confidence as we express ourselves.

CREATIVE EXPRESSION

BUILDING INDEPENDENCE

Towards the end of classes, we’ll reflect on what we’ve learned and center ourselves, devoting time to our social and emotional well-being, thoughts about our goals, and the transition to high school. Every day, we’re building our independence as we visualize exciting futures.

DEFINING OURSELVES

PURSUING OUR INTERESTS

We’ll take the lead or collaborate with peers afterschool during our favorite Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), going after what we’re interested in. Whether it’s debating the solution to a global problem in Model UN or going for a slam dunk during a basketball game, we nurture our talents.

NURTURING TALENTS

individualized instruction

Our exceptional Upper School educators understand that no two students learn in the same way, develop at the same rate, or have the same interests. Experts in differentiated instruction – and highly skilled at tailoring lessons or activities to individual learning preferences – our high-quality teachers will ensure your child thrives.

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