The International Baccalaureate, also known simply as the IB, is an internationally recognised programme for students aged 3-19. The IB programme aims not only to develop students’ knowledge in a range of subjects and disciplines, but also to help them become confident, self-motivated, and resilient global citizens.
Through the
IB, they’ll come to understand different perspectives and join a community of
learners who want to make the world a better place.
The IB inspires
students to learn in a holistic way, with equal importance placed on many
different yet interconnected subjects.
We’ve summarised the IB's three core components and six subject groups to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your child.
TOK is a course designed to help students develop critical thinking. Your child will be asked to reflect on the nature of knowledge through open-ended discussions, with the central question being: “How do we know?” Throughout, they’ll develop their sense of reasoning, as well as their judgement around what really counts as evidence.
They’ll also examine different areas of knowledge through a lens of curiosity, and apply critical thinking to subjects such as history, ethics, and science.
As one of
the most ambitious components of the IB, the Extended Essay is an externally
assessed piece of independent research where students can engage in a topic that
interests them. High-level research skills are needed too, so they can get
familiar with the skills they'll use when writing academic papers at
university.
Students will need to write an essay of up to 4,000 words in which their conclusions are articulated in a well-developed and coherent manner. They’ll also reflect on the entire essay writing process to assess their knowledge and understanding.
CAS sits at
the heart of the IBDP and encourages students to get involved in activities
outside of the classroom centered on creativity, wellbeing, and social
awareness. The goal of CAS is to help them become well-rounded individuals with
the skills they’ll need to succeed in the world beyond the classroom.
In the creativity
strand, students work on developing their artistic appreciation through music,
art, drama, or dance. Within the activity element, they’ll develop an
understanding of physical health and wellbeing. And for the service
element, they‘ll volunteer or get involved in community outreach, learning
about the value of dedication, empathy, and hard work.
The CAS element asks students to reflect on their experiences too, including how it’s improved their sense of teamwork and their leadership and communication skills.
The
International Baccalaureate is a continuum of educational programmes for
students aged 3 to 19.
For each of
the six chosen subjects, students receive a grade of between 1 and 7, with 7
being the highest. The Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay can collectively
contribute another three points to a student’s total score. To pass the IB,
students must receive a total score of 24 or above out of 45 potential points.
The minimum IB Diploma Programme score required for admission varies by university; however, the minimum admission score to attend the world’s best universities generally ranges from 37 to 42.
IB Primary Years Programme (PYP):
For pupils aged 3 to 12, this formative programme gives students the best possible start to education, helping them become active and lifelong learners.
IB Middle Years Programme (MYC):
For
students aged 11 to 16, this course builds a solid academic foundation for
students, turning them into confident learners who approach problem-solving
with a broad, holistic method.
IB Diploma Programme (IBDP):
For
students from 16 to 19, this programme inspires and sets up students to excel
at university and throughout the rest of their lives, both personally and
professionally.
IB Career-Related Programme (IBCP):
This course
is specifically aimed at students in their final years at school and gives them
all the tools they need to succeed, no matter what career path they choose to
embark upon.
Are you interested in a Nord Anglia school offering the International Baccalaureate for your child? Explore all our schools offering this international qualification by clicking the button below.
Our IB Schools
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