Primary School · Grades 1 – 5

Building Strong Foundations

Primary school is where fundamental skills become solid foundations. Students in Grades 1–5 develop academic competencies, build lasting confidence, and discover their unique strengths in a supportive, engaging environment that prepares them for the challenges ahead.

Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5
Enrol in Primary Book a Visit
Primary school students learning at Universal School
5
Grade Levels
8
Core Subjects
3
Languages of Instruction
Tier 1
Entrepreneurship (Gr. 3–5)
Our Primary School Approach

Three Pillars of Primary Excellence

Every decision in our Primary School is shaped by a clear philosophy — rigorous academics, transferable skills, and the character education that makes Universal School graduates stand apart.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Core subjects — Arabic, English, French, Mathematics, Sciences, and Social Studies — taught with depth, rigour, and real-world connection across all five grade levels.

  • Six core subject areas
  • Trilingual instruction
  • Arts and physical education
  • Year-on-year progression

Skill Development

Beyond content knowledge, we build the transferable skills that define lifelong learners — from reading comprehension to critical thinking and independent inquiry.

  • Reading comprehension strategies
  • Writing across purposes
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Research, inquiry & critical thinking

Character Education

Values are not a separate subject — they are woven through every lesson, interaction, and routine, building the character that defines a Universal School graduate.

  • Respect and responsibility
  • Honesty and integrity
  • Empathy and kindness
  • Perseverance and resilience
Subjects & Learning Areas

A Complete Academic Programme

Eight interconnected learning areas delivered with depth, passion, and a clear pathway of progression from Grade 1 through Grade 5.

Domain 01

Language Arts — Arabic & English

  • Reading fluency and comprehension
  • Writing in multiple genres
  • Grammar and conventions
  • Vocabulary expansion
  • Public speaking and presentation
  • Bilingual proficiency development
Domain 02

French Language

  • Progressive development through grades
  • Speaking, listening, reading, writing
  • Cultural appreciation and context
Domain 03

Mathematics

  • Number sense and operations
  • Problem-solving strategies
  • Geometry, measurement & data
  • Real-world application
Domain 04

Sciences

  • Life, physical & earth sciences
  • Scientific inquiry & experimentation
  • STEM integration
Domain 05

Social Studies

  • Lebanese history and geography
  • World cultures and civilisations
  • Citizenship, map skills & research
Domain 06

Arts & Physical Education

  • Visual arts and creative expression
  • Music and performance
  • Physical education and team sports
  • Health, wellness and active living
Entrepreneurship Pathway · Grades 3–5

The Creative Problem-Solver

Tier 1 — Entrepreneurial Journey

Thinking Like an Entrepreneur

Grades 3, 4 & 5

Grades 3–5 participate in Tier 1 of our Entrepreneurial Journey program — a hands-on, project-based experience that introduces young learners to the mindset of creative problem-solvers and future innovators. The year culminates in a real Class Marketplace project.

Part of Universal School's 2026 Entrepreneurship Pathway
  • Identifying Problems — recognising needs and challenges in their school and community
  • Creative Ideation — brainstorming and developing imaginative, practical solutions
  • Basic Financial Literacy — understanding cost, price, and profit in real-world context
  • Simple Marketing — communicating the value of a product or idea effectively
  • Class Marketplace Project — a culminating real-world trading event with products and customers
Primary students in entrepreneurship workshop at Universal School
Year-by-Year Journey

Grade-by-Grade Progression

Each year of Primary School builds deliberately on the last — deepening knowledge, expanding skills, and growing independence.

Gr. 1
Foundation
Foundational literacy
Number concepts
Classroom routines
Social skills
Gr. 2
Consolidation
Reading fluency
Written expression
Operations mastery
Scientific curiosity
Gr. 3
Expansion
Genre writing
Problem-solving
Entrepreneurship Tier 1
Research skills
Gr. 4
Deepening
Critical analysis
Extended writing
Marketplace project
Study habits
Gr. 5
Transition
Middle school prep
Leadership skills
Independent inquiry
Advanced literacy

In our Primary School, we do not simply teach subjects — we build thinkers, communicators, and caring human beings. Every lesson in Grades 1–5 is designed to ignite curiosity, develop discipline, and lay the academic foundations that last a lifetime.

— Universal School Primary School Faculty
Primary students at Universal School campus

Enrol in Primary School · Grades 1–5

Build the Foundations That Last

Universal School's Primary School has been shaping confident, curious, and character-driven learners for 68 years. Grades 1–5 are where the story really begins.

Apply for Primary School Schedule a Visit
Primary School · Grades 1–5

Special Features & Beyond the Classroom

What makes Universal School's Primary years extraordinary goes beyond curriculum. Through project-based learning, technology integration, a vibrant library programme, and real-world field experiences, our students develop into confident, curious, and capable lifelong learners.

Project-Based Learning Tech Integration Library Programme Field Experiences
Primary students engaged in project-based learning at Universal School
4
Special Programme Areas
4×
Progress Reports Per Year
Weekly
Library Programme
24/7
K12NET Portal Access
Special Features

What Makes Primary at Universal School Different

Four signature programme areas that bring learning to life — connecting curriculum to the real world and inspiring every primary student to think, create, and explore.

Feature 01 · Cross-Curricular

Project-Based Learning

Extended, meaningful projects integrate multiple subjects around real-world questions and challenges — building the deep thinking, collaboration, and presentation skills that define Universal School graduates.

  • Multi-subject integration across all five grades
  • Real-world questions and community connections
  • Student-led inquiry and research process
  • Collaborative teamwork and peer learning
  • Presentation and communication of findings
  • Assessed as part of portfolio evidence
  • Links to Entrepreneurship Tier 1 (Gr. 3–5)
Feature 02 · Digital Skills

Technology Integration

Age-appropriate technology use is woven throughout the Primary curriculum — building the digital literacy skills every modern learner needs, safely and purposefully.

  • Research skills and digital evaluation
  • Digital creation and presentation tools
  • Online safety and digital citizenship
  • Typing and keyboarding proficiency
Feature 03 · Reading Culture

Library Programme

A dedicated weekly library programme nurtures the love of reading and develops independent research habits that support every subject across the Primary years.

  • Weekly dedicated library time
  • Independent reading at every level
  • Research skills development
  • Reading incentive programmes
Feature 04 · Real-World Learning

Field Trips & Experiences

Learning does not stop at the classroom door. Carefully curated educational excursions connect curriculum content to living, breathing real-world contexts — making every subject come alive beyond the textbook.

  • Educational excursions tied directly to curriculum units
  • Guest speakers and professional experts in the classroom
  • Community connections and civic engagement projects
  • Parent chaperone and involvement opportunities
Assessment & Progress

Measuring What Truly Matters

Our assessment approach is comprehensive, fair, and always in service of the student — using multiple lenses to build a complete picture of every learner's progress and growth.

How We Assess

Five complementary assessment methods ensure every student's learning is measured with accuracy, fairness, and meaningful insight — not just a single test score.

  • Ongoing Formative Assessments Daily check-ins, exit tickets, and teacher observation
    Daily
  • Unit Tests & Projects End-of-unit evaluations tied to learning objectives
    Per Unit
  • Reading Level Assessments Benchmarked against grade-level reading expectations
    Regular
  • Writing Portfolios Collected evidence of writing development over time
    Semester
  • Maths Fluency Checks Timed and untimed checks of number operations
    Monthly

Reporting to Families

Families stay fully informed through four complementary reporting channels — from live digital access to personal parent-teacher conferences, so no question goes unanswered.

  • Quarterly Progress Reports Academic snapshots with current grades and teacher comments
    4× Year
  • Semester Report Cards Detailed subject-by-subject results with narrative teacher feedback
    2× Year
  • Parent–Teacher Conferences Dedicated one-on-one meetings to discuss progress and goals
    2× Year
  • K12NET Portal Access Live grades, attendance, homework and messaging — always available
    24/7 Live
Digital Platform · Real-Time

Stay Connected via K12NET

Universal School's K12NET integration gives every family instant access to their child's grades, attendance records, homework assignments, teacher messages, and upcoming assessments — 24 hours a day, from any device.

Live grade tracking Attendance records Homework calendar Teacher messaging Mobile-friendly

When children step beyond the classroom — into the library, into a real project, into the community — learning becomes something they own. Our special features are not add-ons; they are the heart of what makes Primary at Universal School extraordinary.

— Universal School Primary School Leadership
Primary students learning at Universal School

Enrol in Primary School · Grades 1–5

More Than a Curriculum — A Complete Education

Projects, technology, books, field experiences, and meaningful assessment — Universal School's Primary years give every child everything they need to thrive in Middle School and beyond.

Apply for Primary School Schedule a Visit
Primary School · Grades 1–5

Primary School Leadership Team

Behind every confident, curious Primary graduate is a team of dedicated, passionate educators who bring expertise, warmth, and genuine care to every classroom, every day. Our Primary faculty are the cornerstone of Universal School's academic excellence for Grades 1 through 5.

5
Grade Levels
4
Specialist Teachers
68
Years of Excellence
Primary School teachers at Universal School
Programme Leadership

Primary School Coordinator

Our Primary Coordinator leads the academic vision, supports teachers, and ensures every Grade 1–5 student receives an outstanding, consistent learning experience.

Primary School Coordinator portrait
Primary Coordinator
Primary School Programme Lead · Grades 1–5

[Coordinator Name]

A dedicated primary education specialist with a deep commitment to academic excellence, child-centred learning, and building a warm, high-achieving school community. Our coordinator works closely with every grade-level and specialist teacher to ensure Universal School's Primary programme is coherent, rigorous, and truly inspiring for every learner.

Primary Education Curriculum Leadership Teacher Development Assessment & Reporting Family Engagement
Contact
primary@universalschool.edu.lb +961 1 234 567 View Full Profile
Classroom Educators

Grade Level Teachers

Each grade level is guided by a dedicated homeroom teacher who builds genuine relationships with every student and family — creating a safe, stimulating space where learning flourishes.

Gr.1
Foundation
Gr.2
Building
Gr.3
Expanding
Gr.4
Deepening
Gr.5
Transition
Grade 1 Teacher
Grade 1
[Grade 1 Teacher Name]
Grade 1 Homeroom Teacher
Early Literacy Numeracy Child Development
Contact
Grade 2 Teacher
Grade 2
[Grade 2 Teacher Name]
Grade 2 Homeroom Teacher
Reading Fluency Writing Science
Contact
Grade 3 Teacher
Grade 3
[Grade 3 Teacher Name]
Grade 3 Homeroom Teacher
Entrepreneurship Maths Social Studies
Contact
Grade 4 Teacher
Grade 4
[Grade 4 Teacher Name]
Grade 4 Homeroom Teacher
Critical Thinking Sciences Writing
Contact
Grade 5 Teacher
Grade 5
[Grade 5 Teacher Name]
Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher
Middle School Prep Leadership Inquiry
Contact
Specialist Faculty

Specialist Teachers

Our four specialist teachers bring deep subject expertise and infectious enthusiasm to every Primary student's weekly schedule — enriching education beyond the core classroom.

Art Teacher at Universal School
Visual Arts
[Art Teacher Name]
Art Specialist · Grades 1–5

Inspiring young artists through painting, drawing, sculpting, and mixed media — building creative confidence and visual literacy across all five primary grades.

Contact Art Teacher
Music Teacher at Universal School
Music
[Music Teacher Name]
Music Specialist · Grades 1–5

Developing musicianship, rhythm, voice, and ensemble skills through singing, instrument introduction, and performance — nurturing a lifelong love of music in every student.

Contact Music Teacher
PE Teacher at Universal School
Physical Education
[PE Teacher Name]
PE Specialist · Grades 1–5

Building physical literacy, teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy habits through games, athletics, gymnastics, and cooperative activities for every Primary learner.

Contact PE Teacher
French Teacher at Universal School
French Language
[French Teacher Name]
French Specialist · Grades 1–5

Guiding students through progressive French language acquisition — speaking, listening, reading, and writing — with a rich appreciation for Francophone culture woven throughout.

Contact French Teacher
Complete Faculty Overview

Your Complete Primary Team

Grade Level Teachers

Grade 1 — [Teacher Name] Ages 6–7
Grade 2 — [Teacher Name] Ages 7–8
Grade 3 — [Teacher Name] Ages 8–9
Grade 4 — [Teacher Name] Ages 9–10
Grade 5 — [Teacher Name] Ages 10–11

Specialist Teachers

Art — [Teacher Name] Gr. 1–5
Music — [Teacher Name] Gr. 1–5
Physical Ed — [Teacher Name] Gr. 1–5
French — [Teacher Name] Gr. 1–5

Leadership & Contact

Primary Coordinator Programme Lead
General Enquiries primary@us.edu.lb
Office Hours Mon–Fri 8am–3pm
View All Profiles →

Our Primary teachers are more than educators — they are mentors, encouragers, and dedicated partners in every child's learning journey. At Universal School, we believe that the relationship between teacher and student is the most powerful force in education.

— Universal School Primary School Coordinator
Primary school students at Universal School

Meet the Primary Team

Ready to Connect with Us?

Our Primary team is always happy to answer your questions, discuss how we can support your child's individual journey, or show you around our campus. Reach out today.

Apply for Grades 1–5 Email the Team
Primary School · Home Partnership

Homework & Home Support

Learning does not end at 3 PM. Meaningful, purposeful homework and a supportive home environment are essential partners in every Primary student's academic success — and we are here to make that partnership as clear and simple as possible for every Universal School family.

Practice & Reinforcement Time Management Family Partnership Middle School Ready
Student studying at home with parent support
Homework Purpose & Design

Why We Give Homework & How We Design It

Homework at Universal School is intentional, age-appropriate, and purposefully linked to classroom learning — never busywork, always meaningful practice.

Purpose 01 · Core Goal

Practice & Reinforcement

Homework consolidates what students have already learned in class — turning taught concepts into embedded knowledge through deliberate, spaced practice at home.

  • Always linked to current classroom learning
  • Focuses on skills that benefit from repetition
  • Reading, maths facts, and writing practice

We design homework to be completable independently — giving students the confidence of succeeding on their own and parents the gift of watching progress happen at home.

  • Designed for independent completion
  • Connected to assessment evidence
  • Reviewed and discussed in class next day
Purpose 02

Building Responsibility & Time Management

Homework teaches children to manage their own time, meet deadlines, and take ownership of their learning — skills that are essential for Middle School success and beyond.

  • Setting a daily homework routine
  • Managing time across subjects
  • Personal organisation habits
  • Pride in completed work
Purpose 03

Extending Learning Beyond School

Homework is a bridge between school and home — an invitation for families to see, engage with, and celebrate the learning that is happening inside our classrooms every day.

  • Real-world connections from class
  • Reading for pleasure and purpose
  • Family conversation starters
  • Occasional project-based tasks
Approximate Daily Time

How Much Time Should Homework Take?

Our homework guidelines are designed to be manageable — respecting family time while building the consistent daily habits that make students successful.

Grades 1 & 2

Foundation Years

20–30 minutes of gentle, focused practice — mostly reading, letter formation, and number work. The goal is habit, not volume.

Reading
~15m
Maths
~10m
Writing
~5m
Grades 3 – 5

Growing Independence

30–45 minutes of structured independent work — reading, written tasks, maths practice, and occasional project research as students build self-management skills.

Reading
~20m
Maths
~15m
Writing
~10m
Family Partnership

The Parent Role at Homework Time

Family Role Guide

How Families Support Success at Home

The most powerful thing a parent can do during homework time is create the right conditions — not do the work. Here is exactly how to be the best homework support your child needs.

  • Provide a Quiet Study Space A consistent, distraction-free area — no TV, phone away — signals that homework time is important
  • Ensure Homework Completion Check that it is done and packed away — accountability at home reinforces school expectations
  • Support — Don't Do the Work Ask questions, encourage thinking, celebrate effort. When your child does their own work, real learning happens
  • Communicate Concerns to the Teacher If homework is consistently too hard, too easy, or taking far longer than expected — message the teacher via K12NET or email
Set a Consistent Homework Time

The same time each day — after a snack, before dinner — removes negotiation and builds a healthy routine children carry into Middle School and beyond.

Use K12NET to Track Assignments

The K12NET portal lists all homework and deadlines in real time — so families always know what is due and when, without relying on your child's memory alone.

Make Reading a Daily Priority

20 minutes of independent reading every evening — even beyond assigned homework — is the single most powerful academic habit a Primary family can build together.

Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Praising the effort — "I noticed you kept trying even when it was hard" — builds resilience and a growth mindset that lasts far beyond Primary School.

Preparing for Middle School

By Grade 5 — Middle School Ready

Every decision in our Primary programme — from curriculum to homework design to character education — leads toward this moment: a confident, capable, curious student ready for the next great chapter.

Strong Reading, Writing & Maths

Solid foundational literacy and numeracy skills — fluent reading, confident writing in multiple genres, and secure number sense ready for more complex Middle School concepts.

Independent Work Habits

The ability to work independently, self-correct, persist through difficulty, and take ownership of their learning without constant teacher or parent direction.

Organisational Skills

Managing materials, assignments, and deadlines across multiple subjects — the practical life skills that determine success in the more complex Middle School environment.

Foundation for Pathway Selection — Coming in Grade 9

The academic habits, character strengths, and love of learning built during Primary School form the bedrock for Universal School's three 2026 academic pathway choices — Lebanese Excellence, Canadian Gateway (OSSD), and Entrepreneurship — which students will select in Grade 9.

  • Lebanese Excellence Pathway — Baccalaureate track
  • Canadian Gateway — OSSD with Rosedale Global
  • Entrepreneurship Pathway — Innovation & Business track
Grade 9
Pathway Choice

Positive Approach to Challenges

A growth mindset — the belief that ability grows with effort — and the resilience to face setbacks with confidence, curiousity, and determination to improve.

When school and home work together — when a student sits down each evening in a quiet space, does their own thinking, and feels proud of what they have accomplished — that is where the magic of Primary education truly happens.

— Universal School Primary School Leadership
Primary students learning at Universal School

Join Our Primary Community

Ready to Build Your Child's Foundation for Life?

Universal School's Primary programme gives every student in Grades 1–5 the academic skills, home-learning habits, and character strength they need to thrive in Middle School and every chapter that follows.

Apply for Grades 1–5 Schedule a School Visit