International Baccalaureate (IB)

The IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Program) is a two-year academic program designed for students in grades 11 and 12 (aged 16 -19).  It is a challenging and rigorous program that prepares students for college life and beyond.  It is also an internationally recognized and accepted qualification for entry into higher education.

The IBDP provides a holistic approach to learning and develops both disciplinary and interdisciplinary understanding.  In addition to academic excellence, it encourages independent learning, inquiry, risk-taking, caring, open-mindedness and intercultural understanding.  It strives to develop ‘global’ citizens with positive attitudes towards respect and the ability to evaluate a range of viewpoints.

Program Overview

• Curriculum. The curriculum is made up of 6 subject groups and the core, consisting of theory of knowledge (TOK); creativity, activity, service (CAS); and the extended essay.
• 6 Subject Groups. Students have a vast range of subjects to choose from each of the six groups, which includes at least two languages. Three of the subjects are studied at a higher level (HL), and three areas are studied at a standard level (SL).  SL courses generally encompass 150 hours of teaching (classroom time) and HL courses encompass 240 hours. Thus, the curriculum exposes the student to both depth and breadth of knowledge and understanding.
• Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course on critical thinking. It teaches students how to make creative connections across traditional academic disciplines and explores the nature of knowledge.  It encourages critical thinking and a coherent approach to learning.  As part of TOK, each student has to write an essay, past titles include: 1) “There is no such thing as a neutral question. Evaluate this statement with reference to two areas of knowledge.” 2) “To what extent are areas of knowledge shaped by their past? Consider with reference to two areas of knowledge.”
• Creativity, activity, service (CAS) enhances personal and interpersonal development by encouraging students to engage in a range of experiential and service-learning activities including fundraising, community service, tutoring and much more. It provides a ‘counterbalance’ to the academic rigour inherent to the program, and nurtures both the local and global community spirit in students. Examples of student engagement in each of the areas include: 1) Creativity – School plays, music lessons & performance, painting 2) Activity – rock climbing, sailing, yoga 3) Service – tutoring, old age home visits, mentorship programs.
• The Extended Essay is an in-depth and independent research project into an area of student interest. It can be up to 4,000 words long and is externally assessed.  The essay takes the student on a journey of intellectual creativity and discovery, and promotes extensive research and writing skills.

How does it compare to other qualifications?

The IB diploma program is a comprehensive learning platform that encourages a holistic approach.  It cultivates physical, intellectual, emotional and ethical strengths.  Students study a range of subjects, and support their academics through their core involvement.  Students study at least two languages to increase the understanding of cultures, including their own. The program fosters a positive attitude to learning and inculcates a broad range of attitudes and skills that prepare students for higher education. 

To conclude, the IBDP is an integrated learning experience – not only does it emphasize academic strength in a range of academic subjects, but also fosters positive attitude towards learning and responsibility towards your community.