Elementary Schools
CISM stands among the leading elementary schools in Metro Manila, nurturing globally minded, confident learners through rigorous, holistic, and internationally aligned education.
Elementary Schools in Manila
The Kindergarten to Grade 1 curriculum follows the Common Core State Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and Project American Education Reaches Out. We adapt our learning objectives to our local and intercultural context, to provide our students with a broad, rich, creative, and rigorous curriculum with the standards and requirements incorporated into a delivery model that maximizes the linkage, and therefore learning, between and across subject areas.
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These programs have been enhanced through identifying and focusing on the key building blocks required for students to access their next steps in learning, with a strong focus on ensuring the development of highly literate and numerate students. Recent external assessment tools have provided evidence that this approach has been highly effective.
Under Foreign Languages, the Mandarin curriculum is based on the Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the 21st Century and is aligned with the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Performance Guidelines for K-12 Learners and the Principles of Understanding.
Using carefully researched educational practices and a wide range of international resources, CISM is committed to providing the highest standard of education to ensure that the students will be equipped to apply to the best colleges and universities in the world. The school’s holistic approach helps develop minds not just academically, but also socially and emotionally, while also empowering learners through a meta-cognitive process.
Primary and Secondary Education
Primary Education in the Philippines
What Our Community Has to Say
Ms. Czarina Cruz Sanchez
Abstract Artist
Mother of 2 CISM students and 1 CISM Alumnus
The Mathematics Department at CISM thrives on a strong culture of collaboration and shared purpose. As a team, we engage in meaningful weekly meetings and uphold rigorous standards through careful review and refinement of instructional materials. This collective approach ensures both consistency and excellence in the quality of our work. ... We also place great importance on continuous improvement, regularly evaluating our curriculum and lesson progression, with a comprehensive review conducted at the end of each academic year to ensure alignment with best practices and learning outcomes. Equally important is the value we place on the insights of our parents and students. Their feedback plays a vital role in shaping our approach, as we remain committed to delivering an international-standard Mathematics education. Guided by dedication and a genuine passion for teaching, we strive to give our very best to our students—the CISM Dragons. Read More
Ms. Allyn Cayago
Academic Coordinator - Mathematics
Ms. Gelli Quintilla
Guidance Counselor
CISM Middle and High School
CISM is a truly unique international school in Manila. While our name reflects strong connections with the Asian community, our campus is home to a diverse mix of students and families from around the world. Many Western families are drawn to CISM for its strong academic foundation, including the U.S. Common Core Standards and the IB Diploma Program. In this ... multicultural environment, our students grow into confident global citizens who are academically prepared, culturally aware, and ready to make a positive impact in an interconnected world. Read More
Ms. Bambi Fernandez de Castro
Head of School
CISM emphasizes a nurturing environment with small class sizes and specialist teachers, helping students become confident, kind, resilient and curious learners. And the curriculum is very intensive which prepares my kids for their future endeavors, strengthening CISM’s reputation among leading schools in the Philippines. In addition, the school is truly international with several students from ... various countries. They promote global citizenship, empathy, respect and cross-cultural understanding which may benefit the kids with how they interact with other people. I highly recommend CISM for parents out there who want a holistic learning approach! Read More
Ms. Katherine Lim-Choa
Marketing Head
Mother of 2 CISM students
Barbara Garcia
Businesswoman
Mother of 1 CISM student and 1 CISM Alumnus
"My wife and I initially chose CISM for our children on reputation alone. It is consistently named as one of the top schools in Manila. After three years at the school, we can say that its reputation is well earned. At CISM, the academics are top notch. Our children’s math skills far exceed students at other schools and learning Mandarin is invaluable in this modern world. Combine that ... with great extracurricular activities and lifelong friendships and we couldn’t be happier with our choice of CISM". Read More
Chef Jon Hrinyak
Executive Chef and Restaurateur
Father to 2 Elementary CISM students.
The emphasis on developing the qualities of a global citizen, alongside CISM’s core values, plays a vital role in shaping students like me into the leaders of tomorrow. CISM consistently encourages us to engage in experiences beyond the prescribed curriculum—opportunities that deepen our understanding of both local and global issues, and challenge us to think about how we can respond meaningfully. ... Through this support, students are given countless opportunities to strengthen essential skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and reflection—skills that will serve us well as we transition into the professional world. More importantly, this environment of empowerment has allowed me to recognize my strengths and build the confidence to create positive social change within my community and beyond. Read More
Julia Marie Cabilangan
CISM Student
& Student Council President
At CISM, I have discovered that leadership isn’t simply taught - it is ignited. From day one, CISM's culture of embracing bold challenges paired with their unwavering support has encouraged me to go outside of my comfort zone,empowering me to turn ideas into meaningful action and to also take charge of it. ... Throughout this journey, CISM has equipped me with the tools to navigate through tough decisions, collaborate effectively, and build confidence that drives a real impact in my community and beyond. Read More
Ms. Leona Taparan
CISM Student and
Student Council Vice-President
The CISM community has empowered me by opening meaningful avenues to build friendships and intellectual connections. It has nurtured in me, a strong sense of belonging,even within diverse environments and communities. This inclusive atmosphere has encouraged me to confidently share my ideas, experiences, ... and perspectives, while also learning from others. Each interaction becomes a genuine exchange of worldviews—one that reflects the essence of global citizenship and fosters a deeper sense of connection to a broader international community. Read More
Mr. Uriel Audrei Gonzales
CISM Student and
Student Council Secretary
Enseñar español en CISM es increíblemente gratificante porque se anima a los estudiantes a comunicarse con confianza, curiosidad y conciencia global. Me encanta ayudar a los estudiantes a descubrir la belleza del idioma español a través de conversaciones significativas, conexiones culturales y comunicación de la vida real. ... Lo que hace único el aprendizaje de idiomas en CISM es su comunidad internacional solidaria, donde los estudiantes se inspiran a tomar riesgos, colaborar y apreciar diversas perspectivas. “Teaching Spanish at CISM is incredibly rewarding because students are encouraged to communicate with confidence, curiosity, and global awareness. I love helping students discover the beauty of the Spanish language through meaningful conversations, cultural connections, and real-life communication. What makes language learning at CISM unique is its supportive international community, where students are inspired to take risks, collaborate, and appreciate diverse perspectives.” Read More
Mr. Andrey Natareno
Faculty - Languages Department
My favorite experience this year at CISM was joining the World Mathematics Team Championship (WMTC) in Thailand last December. I enjoyed not just the competition but also going to see different places. I particularly liked the Dinner Cruise with the other delegates and CISM Mathletes. ... CISM’s Math Honors program allowed me to be exposed to different math problems. This trained me to become more accurate in problem solving by using different strategies. Read More
Zheng Yu
CISM Elementary Student & Mathlete
Many of our students begin with very basic English skills, but with tailored support, carefully scaffolded lessons, and engaging, collaborative activities, they make remarkable progress. Our EAL classes provide a safe, ... inclusive space where every voice matters, encouraging students to take risks, speak up, and grow. As their language develops, so does their confidence, both inside the classroom and in the school community. Read More
Marissa Reyes
EAL Coordinator
(English as an Additional Language)
Other Curriculum we offer
Early Years
The Early Years (EY), encompassing Nursery, Pre-Kindergarten, and Kindergarten, is a formative stage for children aged 3 to 5.
Middle School
The Middle School program builds upon the key learning aspects of the Elementary School program.
High School
Our High School program, serving students aged 14 to 17, is designed to prepare learners with confidence.
IBDP
Our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP), designed for students aged 16 to 17.
FAQs
How are technology & digital tools used in Philippine primary education?
Technology integration in Philippine primary education varies widely between schools. At CISM, digital tools are embedded across the Elementary curriculum to support inquiry-based and collaborative learning. Students use technology purposefully — for research, creative projects, and communication — rather than as a passive screen substitute. The school’s approach aligns with its commitment to preparing globally connected learners who are confident, critical, and responsible users of technology from the earliest years.
What curriculum is followed in Philippine primary schools under the K-12 program?
Under the Philippines’ K-12 programme, public and many private primary schools follow the Department of Education’s prescribed curriculum covering Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education in early grades, progressing to English, Filipino, Mathematics, Science, Araling Panlipunan (Social Studies), and MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health). International schools in Manila, such as CISM, operate under a recognised international framework — in CISM’s case, the American Core Curriculum — which meets or exceeds the K-12 benchmarks while also preparing students for university pathways abroad. CISM is fully accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and is authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
What are the main subjects taught in Philippine primary schools?
In Philippine primary schools, the core subjects typically include English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Filipino, and Values Education, alongside Health and Physical Education and the Arts. At CISM’s Elementary School, students study these foundational disciplines through the American Core Curriculum, with the additional distinction of daily Mandarin Chinese instruction across all grade levels. This bilingual foundation — English and Mandarin — is a defining feature of CISM’s elementary programme and a key reason families from over 30 nationalities choose the school.
What should parents look for when choosing a preschool in Manila?
When choosing an international preschool Manila, parents should evaluate five key factors: (1) curriculum approach — whether it prioritises structured academics, play-based learning, or a blend of both; (2) language of instruction and any bilingual or multilingual provision; (3) class size and teacher-to-student ratios; (4) school accreditation and international recognition; and (5) safety, facilities, and (6) community culture. CISM’s Early Years programme in BGC, Taguig, is designed around the American Early Years Foundation Stage framework, with small class sizes, specialist teachers, and daily Mandarin instruction — providing a strong, internationally recognised foundation for children aged 3 and above.
How to choose the best primary school in Manila for your child?
Choosing the best primary school in Manila involves assessing curriculum quality, accreditation, language provision, pastoral care, and co-curricular opportunities — then matching these against your child’s learning style and your family’s long-term educational goals. For families seeking an internationally accredited, bilingual education in a safe, multicultural environment, CISM in Bonifacio Global City offers a compelling option: the school follows the American Core Curriculum, provides daily Mandarin instruction, and holds dual accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the International Baccalaureate Organization. CISM’s Elementary School serves students from Grade 1 to Grade 6, with a clear academic pathway through to the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. Parents exploring the school admission process often value CISM’s internationally recognised learning environment and holistic approach.
What curriculum do most elementary schools in Manila follow?
Most elementary schools in Manila follow the Philippine Department of Education’s K to 12 curriculum. International schools, however, offer alternative frameworks: the American Core Curriculum, the British National Curriculum, the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), or Cambridge Primary — each recognised by universities and accreditation bodies worldwide. Chinese International School Manila (CISM), located in BGC, follows the American Core Curriculum for Grades 1 to 10, enriched by Mandarin Chinese instruction and a holistic co-curricular programme. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), one of the world’s most respected international school accreditation bodies. Moreover, it is one of the few schools where Like Skills and Personal Development classes are incorporated within the curriculum.