WHY INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE AT PLC?
In 2004, PLC implemented the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme in our Junior School and in 2005 our Year 7 students commenced the Middle Years Programme.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a non-profit education foundation based in Geneva, Switzerland that originally provided university entry qualification. Today it offers three programmes that cover the years of formal education – Diploma Programme (Years 11/12), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Primary Years Programme (PYP).
PLC's research of the IB programmes over the past few years led us to the conclusion that we were already implementing much that was in keeping with their philosophies, teaching methodologies and assessment principles. Like PLC, the IB courses focus on the development of the whole child - the heart as well as the mind.
The PYP accommodates traditional academic subjects but emphasises the interrelatedness of knowledge and skills through an inquiry approach to teaching and learning. It is not only consistent with the outcomes of the Western Australian Curriculum Framework, but also the philosophy and project approach of Reggio Emilia that underpins our Early Learning Centre.
The MYP offers a holistic approach to learning where students are encouraged to recognise relationships between school subjects and the world outside. It encourages students to consider multiple perspectives with the aim of promoting intercultural awareness so as to foster tolerance, respect and empathy. Communication is also considered to be fundamental to learning, as it supports inquiry and allows reflection and expression.
The MYP also accommodates traditional academic subjects but emphasises the interrelatedness of knowledge and skills. It is not only consistent with the outcomes of the Western Australian Curriculum Framework, but also provides outstanding preparation for Years 11 and 12.
Adopting the PYP and MYP is a significant step in moving towards an internationally recognised standard. The IB authorisation and evaluation process means that the School's programme and teaching methodologies are audited against internationally established benchmarks. Additionally, our teachers have access to an international network of educators willing to share their practice.
International Baccalaureate MYP Authorisation Report
In 2007 PLC gained authorisation to offer the Middle Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate. We are now officially welcomed into the global community of the MYP. To read the official letter, commendations and recommendations, download the document here.
Documents with more specific information on the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, IB Learner Profile and General Regulations are available to download, below:
PYP Brochure
MYP Brochure
IB Learner Profile
General Regulations: Middle Years Programme
General Regulations: Primary Years Programme
To visit the International Baccalaureate website, please click on the link below:
IB Website.
