What is the IB Framework?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is more than just a curriculum—it’s a global educational philosophy designed to develop curious, knowledgeable, and caring young people. Unlike traditional systems that focus primarily on memorising facts for exams, the IB framework teaches students how to think critically, connect subjects to real-world issues, and become lifelong learners.

The mission is to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

Three Programmes, One Continuum

The IB framework supports students from ages 3 to 19 through these distinct programmes:

IB Primary Years Programme* (K1 to P6)

Primary Years Programme (PYP)* is a transformative, world-class, inquiry-led framework for students aged 3 to 12, spanning Early Years (K1 through K3) all the way through to Primary P1 to P6. It nurtures curious, confident, and caring learners who become active contributors to their own education and the world around them.

Inquiry-based learning through transdisciplinary themes like “Who We Are” and “How the World Works.”

* Generations is an IB PYP Candidate School

Middle Years Programme (S1-S4)

MYP suits ages 11-16 (S1-S4), bridging Primary to Diploma—perfect for beginners. It teaches 8 subject groups (language, maths, sciences, humanities, arts, PE, design, second language) through inquiry, not just facts. Its core elements are:

  • Key Concepts: Big ideas like “change” or “systems” connect subjects.
  • Global Contexts: Real issues like sustainability or identities make learning relevant.
  • Approaches to Learning (ATL): Builds thinking, researching, communicating skills. Community projects and personal projects in S4 encourage independence. The result: confident teens ready for challenges.

Diploma Programme (S5-S6)

DP is the gold-standard 2-year pre-university course (ages 16-19, S5-S6), recognised by top universities worldwide. Students pick 6 subjects from 6 groups (languages, humanities, sciences, maths, arts/elective)—3 higher level (deeper), 3 standard level, plus 3 unique cores:

  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Explores “how we know what we know” via debates.
  • Extended Essay: 4,000-word independent research paper.
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): 150+ hours of arts, sports, volunteering