Primary Education
Building strong academic foundations and character in Grades 1-7
Primary School Program
The primary school years are crucial for developing strong academic foundations, study habits, and character traits that will serve students throughout their educational journey and beyond. At St. Francis of Assisi Private School, our primary program (Grades 1-7) provides a balanced, comprehensive curriculum designed to challenge, inspire, and nurture each child.
Our experienced teachers create engaging learning environments where students can explore concepts, develop critical thinking skills, and build confidence in their abilities. With small class sizes and personalized attention, we ensure that each child receives the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
Program Overview
Our primary school program follows the Zambian national curriculum enhanced with international best practices to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for future academic success.
We place strong emphasis on core subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, while also valuing the arts, physical education, technology, and character development.
Throughout the primary years, students gradually transition from concrete to more abstract thinking, developing independence, responsibility, and organizational skills that will serve them well in secondary school and beyond.
Key Stages of Primary Education
Lower Primary (Grades 1-3)
In the lower primary years, we focus on building fundamental skills in literacy and numeracy, while fostering a love of learning through engaging, hands-on activities.
- Strong focus on reading, writing, and mathematical foundations
- Thematic, integrated approach to learning
- Development of social skills and classroom routines
- Introduction to specialist subjects
Upper Primary (Grades 4-7)
In the upper primary years, we build on foundational skills and expand into more complex content, developing critical thinking and preparing students for secondary education.
- Deeper exploration of subject content
- Development of research and study skills
- More independent project work
- Preparation for Grade 7 national examinations
Assessment & Reporting
We use a variety of assessment methods to track student progress and provide meaningful feedback to both students and parents.
Regular communication helps create a partnership between home and school that supports each child's educational journey.
Continuous Assessment
Regular formative assessments through classwork, projects, and quizzes provide ongoing feedback about student progress.
Termly Examinations
More formal assessments at the end of each term evaluate student mastery of key concepts and skills.
Progress Reports
Detailed reports are sent home each term, providing information about academic progress, effort, and social development.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Regular meetings allow for meaningful discussions about student strengths, areas for growth, and strategies for support.
Beyond Academics
Character Education
We intentionally foster values such as integrity, respect, responsibility, and compassion through our daily interactions, class discussions, and community service opportunities.
Extracurricular Activities
A wide range of clubs, sports teams, and cultural activities allow students to discover new interests, develop talents, and build friendships across grade levels.
Leadership Development
Through class responsibilities, student council, peer mentoring, and group projects, we provide opportunities for students to develop and practice leadership skills.
What Parents Say
The teachers at St. Francis truly care about each child as an individual. My son struggled with reading when he first started, but with the personalized support he received, he's now reading above grade level and loves books!
Mrs. Ruth Nyirenda
Parent of Grade 3 student
What sets St. Francis apart is how they develop the whole child. My daughter has not only excelled academically but has also grown in confidence, creativity, and compassion. The balanced approach to education is exactly what we were looking for.
Mr. Daniel Tembo
Parent of Grade 6 student
Give Your Child a Strong Educational Foundation
Join our vibrant primary school community where every child is valued, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Our Teaching Approach
Student-Centered Learning
Our approach recognizes each child's unique learning style, interests, and abilities, providing differentiated instruction to meet individual needs.
Inquiry-Based Learning
We encourage curiosity and critical thinking through guided inquiry, problem-solving activities, and hands-on exploration of concepts.
Integrated Approach
Our curriculum connects subjects through thematic units, helping students understand relationships between concepts and apply knowledge across different areas.
Our Primary Curriculum
Core Subjects
English Language
Comprehensive language arts program developing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through literature-based instruction and daily practice.
Mathematics
Strong focus on mathematical concepts, computational skills, problem-solving, and real-world applications with hands-on activities and practice.
Science
Inquiry-based science education covering life, physical, and earth sciences with regular experiments and hands-on investigations.
Social Studies
Exploration of history, geography, civics, and cultures, with special emphasis on Zambian heritage and global citizenship.
Additional Subjects
Religious Education
Faith-based instruction grounded in Catholic values and traditions, while respecting and welcoming students of all religious backgrounds.
Creative Arts
Visual arts, music, and drama instruction encouraging creative expression, appreciation of the arts, and development of artistic skills.
Physical Education
Regular physical activity, sports skills, teamwork, and health education promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyle habits.
Computer Studies
Development of digital literacy, basic programming concepts, and responsible technology use integrated across the curriculum.
Give Your Child the Best Start
Our primary program provides the academic excellence, character development, and personalized attention your child needs to thrive.