In this podcast, host Zachary Fernebok interviews researchers Katherine Dix and Shani Sniedze about their study looking at the impact of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) on student well-being.

The study investigated the impact of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) on student well-being and related social-emotional outcomes. The mixed-method study involved three phases: a literature review and review of PYP documentation with regard to well-being; a retrospective comparative analysis of PYP and similar non-PYP schools; and surveys of PYP teachers and students. The study found the PYP curriculum and programmatic elements to be imbued with activities and practices that promote well-being. PYP students also demonstrated consistently higher levels of well-being compared with similar non-PYP students. Additionally, PYP schools with strong implementation showed a more positive school climate and higher levels of teacher engagement, student participation and student well-being outcomes attributable to the PYP. These findings offer substantial evidence that the PYP encourages student well-being above and beyond other well-being activities promoted in schools.