Diploma Programme

What is the Diploma Programme?

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is an assessed program for students aged 16 to 19. It is respected by leading universities across the globe. Through the DP, schools are able to develop students who have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge, flourish holistically, study at least two languages, excel in traditional academic subjects, and explore the nature of knowledge through the program’s unique theory of knowledge course.

The DP extends over five terms. Students and parents will receive regular feedback on progress through the first year, and there are also formal end-of-year exams. Teachers use ManageBac, an online platform that allows them to communicate tasks, assessments and outcomes with students. Students can submit their work and seek advice from teachers also using ManageBac. Plus, parents can use it to see deadlines, outstanding tasks and assessment grades.

In Year 13, students begin to prepare for the final exams. We hold mock exams under formal IB conditions in the second term to familiarize students with the challenges they will face. The final term of Year 13 is a time of consolidation and revision. Students go on study leave, although they may return to school and teachers are available to them. Soon after the last exams we host OIS Graduation. Family members join graduates and teachers to celebrate the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

Core Elements of the Diploma Programme

Made up of the three required components, the DP core aims to broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.

Theory of Knowledge

Students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know

Extended Essay

An independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper

Creativity, Activity, Service

Students participate in experiential learning through creativity projects, physical activity and service to others.


DP Subject groups

The DP consists of six subject groups: language acquisition, language and literature, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. Students choose 1 subject from each of the groups. To complete the Diploma they must study 3 subjects at HIgher and 3 subjects at Standard level. These choices are supported by staff and are generally made in Term 2 of Year 11. Changes are possible during the early stages of Year 12. The choice of subjects is wide and varies slighlty year on year depending on student interest.

Language Acquisition

The acquisition and use of language in a range of contexts and for different purposes, while promoting an understanding of other cultures

Language and Literature

Through studies in language and literature, the DP aims to develop a student’s lifelong interest in language and literature, and a love for the elegance and richness of human expression

Individuals and Societies

Fosters the capacity to identify, analyse and evaluate theories, concepts and arguments relating to the nature and activities of individuals and societies

Sciences

Students explore the concepts, theories, models and techniques that underpin each subject area and develop their understanding of the scientific method

Arts

Fosters critical, reflective and informed practice, helps students understand the dynamic nature of the arts, and express themselves with confidence

Mathematics

Courses enable students to develop knowledge of concepts and principles, logical and critical thinking, and refine their powers of abstraction

* Only schools authorized by the International Baccalaureate can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme or the Career programme.

For further information about the IB and its programmes visit http://www.ibo.org