The IB Philosophy: Education for a Changing World
Founded in 1968, the International Baccalaureate was created to provide a rigorous, globally relevant education that fosters intellectual growth, intercultural understanding, and ethical leadership. The IB’s philosophy centers on developing knowledgeable, principled, and caring individuals who can navigate complexity, think critically, and take responsible action in a rapidly evolving world.
At St. Andrew’s, our IB programmes cultivate inquiry, open-mindedness, and a commitment to lifelong learning, aligning with our mission to prepare students for success in an interconnected and diverse global society. Our teaching is guided by the IB Learner Profile, which encourages students to be:
- Inquirers
Developing a love of learning by asking questions, conducting research, and pursuing knowledge independently. - Thinkers
Engaging in critical and creative problem-solving, analyzing issues deeply, and making reasoned decisions. - Communicators
Expressing ideas effectively in multiple languages and collaborating with others in a respectful, thoughtful manner. - Risk-Takers
Stepping out of their comfort zones, embracing challenges, and demonstrating resilience and innovation. - Principled
Acting with integrity, fairness, and a strong sense of justice, making ethical decisions that consider others. - Knowledgeable
Gaining a broad and deep understanding of local and global issues, drawing from multiple disciplines. - Caring
Demonstrating empathy, compassion, and respect, contributing to the well-being of others through service and advocacy. - Open-Minded
Appreciating cultural diversity, considering different perspectives, and respecting the beliefs and values of others. - Balanced
Recognizing the importance of intellectual, emotional, and physical well-being, striving for a healthy, well-rounded life.
The IB emphasizes transdisciplinary learning, real-world application, and student agency, ensuring that students actively engage in their education rather than passively receive information.
A Seamless IB Journey
By integrating the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and IB Diploma Programme (IBDP),alongside our own Middle Years programme which is influenced by IB philosophy and approaches, St. Andrew’s provides a cohesive learning experience that develops students into confident, ethical, and forward-thinking leaders. From early inquiry to advanced academic study, our students engage in meaningful exploration, collaboration, and action, ensuring they leave St. Andrew’s ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.
