The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme aims to develop critical and compassionate thinkers who, as learners in the 21st century, are prepared for success at university and life beyond. In order to facilitate life-long learning, we offer a challenging and balanced two-year curriculum.
Prepare for university
The final two years at school mark the beginning of adulthood. Pupils make choices and work hard during these years that prepare them for university and the start of their careers. Once pupils have finished their IGCSEs, they may choose their IBDP subject options and gain qualifications that are accepted by universities around the world.
Internationally-minded, Global Citizens
The Diploma Programme prepares the senior students for the demands that they will be faced with in the current globalised economy. Prominent universities around the world recognise the educational rigours to which students are exposed and the level of excellence and ethical behaviour required to attain IBDP certification.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
The final two years (Year 12 and 13) at school mark the beginning of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Having completed their studies under the International GCSE model until the age of 16, Sixth Form students are offered a continuity of learning through the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). The IBDP course is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education with final examinations.
It is undertaken by students between the ages of 16-19 (academic Years 12 and 13) and is specifically designed to prepare students for success in higher education, while equipping them with the skills they need to be active participants in a global society.
The Diploma Programme prepares students for success in a rapidly-evolving and increasingly global society.
The DP course content allows students to:
Develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically
Acquire breadth and depth of knowledge, and wide-ranging understanding while studying courses from six subject groups
Develop the skills and a positive attitude towards learning that will prepare them for higher education
Study at least two languages and increase their understanding of cultures, including their own
Make connections across traditional academic disciplines and explore the nature of knowledge through the programme's unique Theory of Knowledge course
Undertake in-depth research into an area of interest through the lens of one or more academic disciplines in the extended essay
Enhance their personal and interpersonal development through creativity, action and service
MEDUCA requirements also mean that students are required to increase the number of classes in Panamanian Social Studies and partake in a compulsory national service in order to graduate from the MEDUCA Diploma Programme at the end of Year 13. This qualification allows students to access Panamanian Universities.
IBDP class sizes, at present, are small, allowing for a better Pupil-Teacher ratio than offered in many other schools. This personalised teaching approach supports rapid progress and better overall attainment. Students wishing to enter American Universities are guided towards SAT preparation programmes that are available throughout Panama. However, study for these exams is likely to require additional study time in the evenings and at weekends, and does not form part of the curriculum at King’s College School, Panama.
