Why the IB Diploma Program?

The DP program is ‘broad and balanced,’ in that students choose subjects over six subject areas that match their interests. This allows students to pursue their interests and aspirations while also ensuring they are stretched beyond their comfort areas. Although many high school programs offer a broad range of courses as well, the wealth of resources available from the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) has led to these being developed with academic rigor and engaging content and shared across schools worldwide for continued development.

Respected

The assessment processes of the DP program benefits students with both its approach and credibility. “The IBDP is one of the most trusted assessments worldwide; universities know schools offering this program have been strictly monitored and moderated, as are the IB examiners themselves to ensure consistency across the board,” states Michael Galligan, IBDP Coordinator, Stamford Hong Kong.

During their academic journey students are assessed using a variety of techniques to really get to the core of what a student is capable of, rather than measuring by infrequent exams or projects. “The benefit for universities is in the validity and reliability of the program. No matter what country in which the child completes the IBDP, a university can trust the results due to the checks and balances within the IBO. For this reason, many universities prefer IBDP as they can feel confident in the quality of the student and fit for their programs. At Stamford Hong Kong, this will be supported by not only the IB Coordinator but also, by the experienced IB faculty brought in to teach courses,” says University Guidance Counselor, Christina Meherg.

Global Leaders

Since the IBDP offers a program that is a passport to universities worldwide, it is important that students throughout the program develop international-mindedness not only for tertiary education but for their post-graduate pursuits as well. The world continues to be interconnected with many companies operating globally, with a culturally diverse workforce. 

Rather than a separate unit, this aspect is built into the foundation of every course, thus becoming part of the DNA of an IB student. As people become more interconnected, it is important they are able to collaborate, be flexible and show they are open-minded. This is a combination of critical thinking skills, broad knowledge and emotional intelligence from CAS components.

What is special about Stamford’s IBDP?

“Stamford Hong Kong has brought STEM education and innovation to the forefront of its curriculum from Day 1. It is interesting to see how this is showcased in the projects the students deliver and their overall approach to the program,” commented Galligan. “Seeing the success of students at the Stamford Singapore campus, where I worked before coming to Hong Kong, I am eager to see how the Stamford Hong Kong STEMinn program helps bring student achievement to the next level.”