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The IB Diploma and Certificate programme are internationally recognised courses with the Diploma probably being the most highly regarded pre-university course in the world. It prepares students well with a range of opportunities for the future. Whilst providing an academically rigorous course of study in specific subject areas, the course encourages students to continue their education `across` subject areas so that we can appreciate the values of different types of knowledge and consider the manner in which they link together. This is encountered as the course progresses and through the Theory of Knowledge module. Likewise it engages students in the community through the Community, Action and Service component. But above all it promises an exciting time that invites students to choose their goals and achieve them successfully. Both IB teachers and students are expected to think and work in a manner more conducive to collective knowledge and learning.
We are proud of the professional and caring environment found at BIS, where our highly qualified and committed staff, have the prime aim of helping all students achieve their full potential via a rigorous and structured course. Students are respected as young adults and we feel the course provides an ideal stepping stone between school and the next stage in life, whether University or employment. We have a strong university support service, with personal links to many institutions, as part of the course and students are advised and supported at every stage of the process.
An important part of studying at BIS is the tutorial guidance and support delivered by highly experienced staff on both a group and personal basis. All students are assigned a personal tutor who is responsible for ensuring that their students are making the best possible progression on the course. Tutor groups are arranged in a vertical manner. The tutors are supported by the IB Coordinator and Assistant IB Coordinator. All tutors teach some aspect of the students` course and are therefore aware of the curriculum content and any problems that they may encounter. A weekly tutorial session is held. Tutors also act as an important link with parents whose role we see as vital to the success of all students. Every half term a review of student progress is initiated through subject teachers who highlight any concerns or commendable performances. Open consultation evenings are held to discuss progress and issues.
It is important that any newcomers to BIS feel part of the IB team. We aim to share good practice and encourage a collegiate style approach to the programme. Internationalism and Inter-Culturalism are important critical concepts for everyone to grasp. We encourage a strong rapport with students and the Student Voice is heard and acted upon through a strong IB Council system. Students have the privilege of basing themselves within a specialist IB Centre containing computer suites, quiet study areas, internet café, TOK classroom and a careers and university centre besides the specialist teaching areas in the school. Key staff on the IB team are situated here: Endah the IB Administrator who makes sure that everything runs smoothly, Julie Barlow the Assistant IB Coordinator who has a real specialism and skill in running a strong pastoral programme and support service for students, Adrian Thirkell the CAS Coordinator who has inspired many award winning projects worldwide and myself: Ian Davies who is lucky enough to have such a great set of colleagues.
I hope you find all the information provided on the IB pages of some use. As the year unfolds I would be grateful to receive any ideas or suggestions with regards to our IB programme in order to build in improvements for future years.
On behalf of the British International School, Jakarta, welcome again and we hope to see you add your own very special talents to our IB programme here at BIS.
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