A new school for Grand Cayman: Island Primary to open September 2023

Enrollment is now open for Grand Cayman’s newest primary school, Island Primary. Opening in September 2023, Island Primary offers 350 new school spaces for children aged 4 to 11 in a spacious new campus conveniently located off Linford Pierson Highway in George Town.

Island Primary will offer high quality education guided by the British curriculum for students in Reception through Year 6. Currently under construction on four acres in Buttonwood Park, the school is sustainably designed to embrace its natural surroundings and provide ample opportunities for outdoor learning.

Island Primary principal, Stephen Coles, says, “We are creating a learning community that is rooted in Cayman, adapting the curriculum to make it relevant to our islands and encouraging children and staff to become active, responsible and engaged citizens. Our learning approach is designed to allow every child to reach their full potential, exploring opportunities and interests that matter to them.”

Coles, formerly deputy principal at Cayman Prep & High School and Sir John A. Cumber Primary School, is currently recruiting for the 2023/24 school year. Around 50 employment opportunities will be posted on Island Primary’s website from leadership positions and specialist roles to support staff. Island Primary is also launching a teaching scholarship programme to support the next generation of Caymanian teachers.

Island Primary was born from a need for additional school spaces at the primary age level. Founders Jenn Cowdroy and Clare Thorpe, owners at Island Montessori Preschool on Crewe Road, initially set up a primary school programme on site at Island Montessori but demand continued to grow and more space was needed.

“Starting a new school is an enormous undertaking, but we are reminded daily by our students and parents how important it is for our community,” said Thorpe, who is Principal at Island Montessori. “Island Primary is a continuation of our education ethos for the early years. We will deliver a high quality education for the Cayman community, led by a Principal who shares our passion and enthusiasm for developing independent young learners.”

Spaces are available in all age groups at Island Primary which offers two classes per year group, and interested families are encouraged to apply through their website.

Island Montessori will continue to offer a Montessori programme for children aged 1 to 6. Children who are 4 years of age as of September in their starting year will have the option either to start at Island Primary in their Reception year or finish the Montessori Casa programme.

To enroll at Island Primary or to apply to join the team, visit https://www.islandprimary.org/ .