International Baccalaureate® Diploma Programme

What is an IB Education?

The IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education, with final examinations, that prepares students aged 16 to 19 for success at university and in life beyond. It has been designed to address the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of students. The programme has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities.

The program is a comprehensive two-year international curriculum, beginning in the 11th grade.

The Diploma Program's grading system is criterion referenced: each student's performance is measured against well defined levels of achievement consistent from one examination session to the next. Grades reflect attainment of knowledge and skills relative to set standards that are applied equally to all schools. Top grades are not, for example, awarded to a certain percentage of students.

Approaches to Teaching

The IB program is taught by teachers who explicitly help students learn how to develop the attitudes and skills they need for both academic and personal success.  Teaching is:

• based on inquiry
• focused on conceptual understanding
• developed in local and global contexts
• focused on effective teamwork and collaboration
• differentiated to meet the needs of all learners
• informed by assessment (formative and summative).

Approaches to Learning

Proficiency in any skill can be increased through the deliberate use of techniques and strategies, feedback and challenge. Skills are therefore highly teachable. Teaching and learning in the Diploma Program (DP)  incorporates the development of:

• thinking skills
• communication skills
• social skills
• self-management skills
• research skills