How we learn
How we learn

Our learning approach

At our private school in Covington, students question, explore, and collaborate as they pursue deep understanding. Guided by IB values and the Learning.First™ approach, they connect concepts across subjects, investigate real-world issues, and share their ideas with confidence and clarity. Age-appropriate access to devices and digital platforms further enhances collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving across all grade levels.

Students continually strengthen their Approaches to Learning skills - managing time, researching independently, and communicating effectively - then turn knowledge into meaningful action that enriches both their own growth and their community every day. 

Skills for life

Life competencies are the essential skills every student needs to succeed in learning, relationships and their future. Backed by research with Cambridge University through CamTree, ISP's Life Competencies Framework is embedded into school life, helping students build the self-belief to set ambitious goals, take action and shape their own success.

Cognitive

Thinking deeply, questioning and problem-solving: "I lead my learning by solving problems, communicating confidently, and managing my time effectively."

Critical thinking

Making sense of information, solving problems, and making smart decisions

Creativity

Generating new ideas, exploring different perspectives and innovating 

Curiosity

Asking "why?" and "what if?" to deepen understanding and spark new ideas

Global

Understanding the world and taking action:  "I am curious about different cultures and take action for a better world."

Citizenship

Recognising one's role in the global community

Action

Taking meaningful steps to support social causes 

Understanding

Respecting different perspectives and ways of life

Self-leadership

Managing self, goals and growth:  "I know how I learn best, set goals and stay motivated to improve."

Confidence

Believing in self and tackling challenges with a positive mindset

Learning to Learn

Understanding how to improve learning strategies

Wellbeing

Balancing mental, emotional and physical health

Interpersonal

Working together and building strong relationships: "I collaborate, communicate and build meaningful relationships with others."

Collaboration

Working effectively as a team to achieve shared goals

Communication

Expressing ideas clearly and listening to others

Social-Emotional

Understanding emotions and managing them effectively

Digital

Using technology safely and creatively: "I use digital tools responsibly to communicate, create and innovate."

Digital Literacy

Using technology effectively and safely

Responsibility

Respecting others and making ethical choices online

Innovation

Using technology to develop ideas and improve solutions

Cognitive Global Self-leadership Interpersonal Digital
IB Learner Profile
Approaches to Learning (ATL)

IB Learner Profile

At Kehoe-France Northshore, students grow into curious inquirers, thoughtful thinkers, confident communicators, and courageous risk-takers. By connecting ideas, collaborating, and reflecting, they build the confidence and agency to take meaningful action in their learning and communities.

Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills

At Kehoe-France Northshore, students strengthen Approaches to Learning - thinking, research, communication, collaboration, and self-management - for success in every subject.

Technology in the classroom

At Kehoe-France, technology is woven into everyday learning, helping students think critically, work creatively, and collaborate with confidence.

Grade 1 - 3

iPad integration

Students in Grades 1–3 use 1:1 iPads kept in classroom carts and accessed daily. Teachers build iPads into lessons to boost reading, writing, maths, and creativity through interactive apps, research tasks, and digital storytelling.  

Students also develop responsible tech habits while using tools such as Seesaw and IXL. 

Grade 1 - 3

Grade 4 - 7

Personalized digital learning

Students in Grades 4–7 use 1:1 Chromebooks throughout the school day and at home. This flexibility supports seamless use of technology in every subject.

Learners collaborate on projects, carry out research, code in the Design Lab, and organize their work through Google Classroom and other platforms, all while building strong digital citizenship and a healthy balance in their tech use. 

Grade 4 - 7

Where learning comes first

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Curiosity fuels our learning Confidence drives lifelong learning The power of 'Good Struggles' Teachers as co-pilots 

Curiosity fuels our learning

The best learning happens when students are actively engaged. We ignite curiosity through hands-on projects and inquiry-based learning, making learning exciting, memorable and full of exploration.

Confidence drives lifelong learning

Our students trust in their abilities, build confidence and lead their way forward. This mindset helps them believe they can learn and achieve anything, fostering a love for lifelong learning.

The power of 'Good Struggles'

We believe great learning happens just beyond the comfort zone. That’s why we create purposeful challenges, or 'good struggles', that help students stay motivated while they grow. Through these experiences, students build resilience, solve problems, and learn to keep going – even when it’s hard.

Teachers as co-pilots 

Learning here is a partnership. Teachers work alongside students as guides, helping them navigate choices, embrace good struggles, inspire those 'aha' Amazing Learning moments of self-discovery and grow in confidence.

Where learning comes first

Most schools talk about what they teach. We focus on how your child learns. Through the Learning.First™ approach, students reflect on their progress, explore new approaches and make decisions that drive their growth. 

Growing curious, confident minds

Our learning pillars enhance every student's experience - providing structure, opportunity and the support they need to grow.  As part of International Schools Partnership, our students benefit from a global network committed to the highest standards of learning.

Academic achievement
Academic achievement

Enjoy personalized learning that continuously enhances knowledge, skills and understanding.

Life competencies
Life competencies

Gain life skills to thrive in academics, as well as careers and personal lives.

Multilingualism
Multilingualism

Develop proficiency in multiple world languages, while being supported in home or first languages.

International opportunities
International opportunities

Try global skill-building programs and activities that develop critical thinking, teamwork and leadership.

Life and career pathways
Life and career pathways

Benefit from personalized guidance for university and career choices, supporting your chosen path.  

Measuring the quality of learning

We measure the quality of learning through International Schools Partnership’s Learning Improvement Process - LIP. This framework helps teachers and leaders reflect on what works and adapt quickly to meet each learner’s needs, ensuring every student feels ready to embrace good struggles and succeed.

Informed by evidence gathered through this process, our learning spaces continually evolve to spark curiosity, foster resilience and prepare students with the skills they need to thrive - not just in school, but in life. Every improvement is guided by what drives real progress for learners.

Sarah Ficarra

Regardless of what learning space you walk into - indoors or outdoors, you're going to see happily engaged students that feel safe to take risks in their learning. They are making connections to the real world.

Sarah Ficarra, Lower School Principal

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Discover how students learn at Kehoe-France Northshore - questioning, exploring, and collaborating through the IB framework to think critically, solve problems, and take meaningful action.

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Accreditations