INTERNATIONAL
BACCALAUREATE
DIPLOMA
PROGRAMME
Ryan Brown, Assistant Principal Innovation in Curriculum and Pedagogy
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - Developing open-minded, active and independent young people
To many students, education is seen to be a means to an end. This perspective suggests that the conclusion of secondary education is the ‘end of the road,’ and that results are merely a gateway to opportunities for future study or employment. Education can also be synonymous with knowledge, such as the knowledge of science, mathematics, or literature. In this perspective, the idea of engaging in education is measured by a tolerance for textbooks and tests.
Research reveals, however, that the value of education is more than what we know, but rather, who we become, and who we endeavour to be. The International Baccalaureate Organisation recognises the importance of developing not only knowledge, but character. With an integrated focus on developing traits such as open-mindedness, balance, and principles, the programme aims to inspire young people to be active, engaged and caring members of the world.
Despite its academic rigour, the focus of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is surprisingly not its subjects, rather the experience it creates to enable students to become independent and capable human beings. Over a two-year period, students are challenged to act with greater independence and creativity, distilling their interest and passions among a wide selection of subject areas, and making active choices around how to demonstrate their learning. The purpose of this experience is not to see students attain impressive grades or high ATARs, as much as it is about equipping students to thrive in the world beyond their secondary experience.
As 2021 draws to an end, 2022 will see our first year of the IBDP at Aberfoyle Park High School. This is an exciting milestone, and the beginning of a new generation of learners recognised for their love of learning and aspirations to change the world around them. As the programme continues to expand, those interested in the IBDP are encouraged to consider the following questions:
Do I want to have greater choice and input into how I explore my learning?
Do I thrive when given the opportunity to create and lead in my learning?
Do I want to grow as an individual, and be challenged to actively engage in my community?
For families interested in pursuing the International Baccalaureate in the years ahead, the following video offers further insight.