How does a school develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people?

How does a school develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people?

Dean of Teaching and Learning (Middle School) Lauren McCormack

Throughout Years 6-8, our academic programme is delivered within the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP).

This is a critical connection within the continuum of IB, and it provides a structure that is both challenging and engaging for students. Specifically, the MYP provides strong foundations, critical thinking skills, and a proficiency for solving complex problems, while encouraging diversity, curiosity and excellence. The MYP framework supports the overall aims of the IB programme.

“The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.”

Additionally, the MYP framework has a focus on the development of the four features that are central to all IB programmes.

• The IB Learner Profile

• International-mindedness

• A broad, balanced, conceptual and connected curriculum

• Approaches to teaching and learning (ATL)

UNDERSTANDING THE IB LEARNER PROFILE

The IB Learner Profile places the student at the centre of their learning. Beyond the regular academic curriculum, they highlight 10 attributes that students will develop and grow as they move through their schooling. The attributes identify the importance of cognitive development as well as ensuring there is a focus on their social, emotional and physical well-being.

During a student’s journey in the Middle School, there is a range of opportunities to understand and develop the IB Learner Profile.

• Pastoral Care homerooms and Vertical House Groups

• Assessments

• Middle School Clubs

• JPSSA and PSA Sport

• Co-curricular activities

• Community Project in Year 8

• Outdoor Education experiences

Students are recognised by their teachers for showing development of a Learner

Profile throughout the year at Middle School assemblies. Examples of these include:

• Being a balanced and knowledgeable learner and always completing set tasks to a high standard

• Settling into the Middle School in an open-minded and enthusiastic manner

• Demonstrating emotional, physical and academic balance in the school day

• Being an excellent inquirer in Individuals & Societies and creating an innovative and engaging virtual expedition showcasing ICT expertise

• Being a reflective learner by listening to feedback, taking it on and working hard to achieve fantastic learning outcomes

At the end of each year, we acknowledge the wonderful achievement of our Middle School students by showcasing the attributes at the final IB Learner Profile Awards Assembly.

Through the development of these learner profiles, we aim to nurture a love for learning as well as ensuring students learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them.