IB

IBDP Introduction

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As the 2020 school year races ahead, I wanted to briefly take the opportunity to introduce myself. I have recently joined the BSC community as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Coordinator. I am excited to share with you all the benefits of this Senior Studies course as I am an IBDP graduate, so I have first-hand experience of the challenges and rewards this programme offers. When I first saw the job advertisement, I was very impressed to see a government school providing its students with an educational opportunity that, for most Victorian students, costs upwards of $25,000 a year!

Created in the 1960s with the Cold War as the backdrop, the intention of the IBDP is to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who will help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. It adopts a holistic educational approach where students study both deeply and broadly, challenging themselves across a range of subjects. That all sounds very lofty so here are significant facts.

Research shows that IB Diploma graduates are more likely to enrol in selective universities, stay enrolled and perform better during university study. This is because the Diploma requires the development of advanced independent research and organisational skills, which are crucial for students who want to pursue higher learning and excel in their careers. Students also develop good study habits effectively managing their time for assignments and revision while avoiding distractions, an increasingly important skill in todays wired world.

I personally had a very positive university experience as I was thoroughly prepared with the necessary skills by the IBDP.

The IBDP also focuses on developing critical thinking skills and again research has found that IBDP students demonstrate the ability to critically analyse sources and challenge the consensus thus leading innovation.

Furthermore, through the Community, Activity and Service (CAS) aspect of the programme, the IBDP develops the whole person. A wide-reaching survey of over 9,000 participants found that CAS had a significant impact on their personal dispositions and interpersonal relationships, developing both a sense of accomplishment by challenging themselves and the self-worth that arises when you identify as a valued contributor to society.

This is just a brief snapshot of some of the benefits for IBDP students.

I look forward to meeting you all as the school year progresses.

Meanwhile I can be contacted by email on: pek@brightonsc.vic.edu.au.

Best regards,

Katherine Perry

IB Coordinator