Our Approach

Where Inuit Ways of Being Meets Child-Centered Learning

At the heart of Pirurvik Preschool is an innovative educational approach that marries two powerful philosophies: Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) principles and Montessori methodologies. This potent combination creates a learning environment where children can explore, grow, and develop at their own pace, while connecting deeply with their language and culture.

Two Traditions,

One Powerful Approach

Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit

Foundation

Our program is guided by the IQ principle of Pilimmaksarniq (development of skills through observation, practice, mentoring, effort, and action), allowing children to learn at their own pace in ways that resonate with them.

The Nine IQ Principles That Guide Us:

  • Inuuqatigiitsiarniq: Respecting others, building positive relationships

  • Tunnganarniq: Fostering good spirit by being open and inclusive

  • Pijitsirniq: Serving and providing for family and community

  • Aajiiqatigiinniq: Decision-making through discussion and consensus

  • Pilimmaksarniq: Development of skills through observation and practice

  • Piliriqatigiinniq: Working together for a common cause

  • Qanuqtuurniq: Being innovative and resourceful

  • Inunnguiniq: Caring for children the Inuit Way

  • Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq: Respect for the land, animals, and environment

Montessori

Enrichment

We incorporate elements of Montessori education that naturally complement Inuit ways of knowing and learning:

  • Child-directed learning: Children choose activities that interest them, fostering independence and intrinsic motivation

  • Prepared environment: Carefully designed spaces with developmental and culturally-relevant materials

  • Specialized learning materials: Hands-on materials focusing on specific developmental concepts

  • Uninterrupted work periods: Time to deeply engage with activities

  • Multi-generational learning: Children learn from Elders, parents, teachers and one another

In Practice:

A Day at Pirurvik

Step into Pirurvik Preschool's classroom and you'll immediately sense the quiet hum of engaged, focused children. A child arranges Inuktitut syllabics while others gather around an Elder sharing stories. Children work with traditional tools like child-sized ulu and qulliq, or explore seal-skins and string games.

Teachers demonstrate skills with deliberate movements before stepping back, embodying a balance between guidance and autonomy. Children confidently select activities—some practicing precision with water pouring, others identifying Arctic animals in Inuktitut, or working with counting materials. When finished, they return items to designated places, learning responsibility and respect.

Peaceful exploration alternates with circle time for songs and group activities. What distinguishes our approach isn't just what children learn, but how they learn—with independence, cultural connection, and the joy of self-discovery, all within an enriching environment where teachers facilitate rather than direct.

"Children in the Arctic, like anywhere in the world, learn by observation, imitation and practice. Much of the learning takes place by trial and error. Inuit teaching styles are not normally based on lecturing. Rather, they teach children certain things with daily activities such as hunting, sewing, working, or fixing things through modeling."

— Elijah Tigullaraq, Qikiqtani School Operations, Pond Inlet

The Roots of

Children's Learning

Our educational approach naturally supports children because it:

  • Respects children as capable individuals with natural curiosity and desire to learn

  • Centers cultural identity by helping children develop a strong sense of belonging

  • Preserves and promotes Inuktitut language through daily learning experiences

  • Develops essential skills through activities that are meaningful to children

  • Builds self-regulation and independence through appropriate freedom within limits

  • Promotes school readiness by encouraging concentration and love of learning

  • Generates community connection by engaging parents and strengthening bonds between generations

  • Fosters holistic development by nurturing intellectual, physical and emotional well-being

When children witness their culture and language valued in their educational setting, they develop a stronger sense of identity and belonging—essential foundations for lifelong learning success.

Resources for Learning More

We invite parents, educators, and community members to learn more about our approach through our downloadable resources:

Learn With Us

Pirurvik Preschool offers professional development opportunities for educators who wish to bring this approach to their communities.

Our training program is facilitated by experienced Pirurvik staff who share their knowledge, practical insights, and lived experiences with early childhood educators across Nunavut. Through collaborative learning, educators discover ways to enhance their own programs with culturally-grounded approaches that respect both Inuit traditions and each child's unique learning journey.

To learn more about our training program for educators and communities interested in implementing our approach:

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