International Baccalaureate: Everything You Need To Know
If you’re a parent looking for a globally recognised curriculum that can prepare your child for university and beyond, you might want to consider the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The IB program is a rigorous and challenging academic program that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and community service. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the International Baccalaureate curriculum, its benefits, recognition, schools offering it, and how to determine if it’s the right fit for your child.
What Is the International Baccalaureate Curriculum and How Does It Work?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is an internationally recognised education program founded in 1968. It offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum for students aged 3 to 19. The program emphasizes intellectual curiosity, creativity, and service to the community. It is designed to develop well-rounded students who have a deep understanding of global issues and the skills needed to succeed in the 21st century.
The IB curriculum consists of four programs: the Primary Years Program (PYP) for ages 3 to 12, the Middle Years Program (MYP) for ages 11 to 16 and the Diploma Program (DP) for ages 16 to 18. Each program has its unique features, but they all share a common philosophy and approach to education. The curriculum is delivered through a combination of classroom instruction, independent study, and real-world experiences.
What Are the Benefits of The International Baccalaureate?
The International Baccalaureate program offers several benefits to students, including:
- A challenging and rigorous curriculum that prepares students for university and beyond.
- A focus on critical thinking, creativity, and community service.
- A global perspective that helps students understand and appreciate different cultures and perspectives.
- A focus on developing well-rounded students who have a deep understanding of global issues and the skills needed to succeed in the 21st century.
- Opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service.
Is the International Baccalaureate Curriculum Recognised Globally and Is It Transferable?
Yes, the International Baccalaureate program is recognised globally and is highly regarded by universities and employers around the world. The IB diploma is accepted by universities in over 140 countries, including some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Additionally, the IB program is transferable, meaning that students can move between schools and countries without having to start over or repeat coursework.
Which Schools Can Offer the International Baccalaureate Curriculum?
The International Baccalaureate program is offered by schools in over 150 countries worldwide. These schools must be authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to offer the program. To become authorized, schools must undergo a rigorous process that includes training for teachers, evaluation of curriculum materials, and an onsite evaluation by the IBO. In Singapore, there are many International Baccalaureate (IB) schools, which offer the IB Primary Years Program (PYP), IB Middle Years Program (MYP), and/or IB Diploma Program (DP). As of 2021, there are over 35 IB schools in Singapore, ranging from primary schools to high schools. It’s important to note that the number of IB schools in Singapore may change over time as new schools open and existing schools close or change their curriculums. As such, it’s always best to research and compare different schools to find the best fit for your child’s education and learning needs.
What to Look for In A Great IB School?
When looking for an IB school, there are several things you should consider:
- Authorization: Make sure the school is authorized by the IBO to offer the program.
- Curriculum: Look for a school that offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum that aligns with the IB philosophy.
- Teachers: Look for qualified and experienced teachers who have completed IB training and are committed to the IB philosophy.
- Resources: Look for a school that has the resources and facilities needed to support the IB program, including technology, library resources, and extracurricular activities.
- Community: Look for a school that has a strong sense of community
How much does IB cost in Singapore?
The cost of International Baccalaureate (IB) programs in Singapore can vary depending on the school and the program level. Generally, IB programs tend to be more expensive than other curriculums due to their rigorous academic standards and global recognition. The cost of IB programs can range from SGD $30,000 to SGD $47,000 per year, depending on the school and the program level.
It’s important to note that in addition to tuition fees, there may be additional costs associated with the IB program, such as exam fees, textbooks, uniforms, and extracurricular activities. These costs can vary depending on the school and the specific program.
Does Australian International School offer International Baccalaureate?
The Australian International School in Singapore (AIS) offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. AIS offers the IB Primary Years Program (PYP) for students aged 3-12 years old, and the IB Diploma Program (DP) for students aged 16-19 years old. The school is also an IB World School, which means it has been authorized to offer IB programs.
In addition to its IB programs, the Australian International School in Singapore is recognised for its academic excellence, with a strong emphasis on Academic Wellbeing and a well-rounded education that includes sports, arts, and community service. The school is also known for its diverse student population, with students from over 50 different nationalities.
Students who have studied International Baccalaureate at the Australian International School have continued to some of the leading schools around the world such as Stamford University, University of Cambridge, University of Melbourne, and Macquarie University.
How do I choose between the International Baccalaureate and Higher School Certificate (HSC)?
Deciding between the IB programme and the HSC can be challenging for parents, as both offer a rigorous education with key differences. The IB curriculum is recognized internationally, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and community service, and requiring students to take a range of subjects across six groups. In contrast, the HSC is also recognised globally, but students focus on academic subjects with the option to specialize in areas of study and offering VET courses. Choosing between them depends on the child’s interests, learning style, and future goals, with the IB being ideal for a well-rounded education and further study abroad, while the HSC may suit those looking to specialize or pursue vocational training. Ultimately, researching and comparing schools and programs is crucial to finding the best fit for a child’s education needs. For more information on how to choose between the two click here.
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