The International Baccalaureate is not appropriate for every student. Professor Karen Rogers has synthesized the findings of numerous research studies to identify the characteristics of students who will thrive within the environment of the International Baccalaureate. Rogers’ research identified that students with above average cognitive abilities, who have been processing and achieving beyond their grade-level peers in specific academic areas are best suited to the IB. They should possess strong characteristics in learning, motivation, communication, expression, communication precision and planning.

Students with personal characteristics which include being self-directed, independent, and motivated to learn, achieve well within the IB system. Those who are independent in thought and action; have an inner locus of control; like taking cognitive risks; persist in their own interests and with assigned tasks, are likely to flourish
with the academically rigorous curriculum offered at IB schools. Successful IB students tend to makes ready
associations and retain information easily.
The social and emotional characteristics identified among students who achieve in the IB include those who are socially mature, emotionally stable, perceptive, verbal, dominant, reflective and accepting of others.
IB students tend to look for challenge in learning experiences and they enjoy learning with like ability peers. They prefer learning through a variety of delivery methods: lecture, discussion and small group projects. These students are comfortable in challenging, in-depth, fast-paced learning experiences and in competitive situations.

Students participate and are actively involved in a variety of out-of-school interests offered at school. They may have wide-ranging academic interests but also have an intense interest in a specific academic area. Not every IB student will have all of these characteristics. Consider the characteristics that are prevalent among students who thrive in an IB environment. Students and parents might like to discuss which of these characteristics a student possesses already and identify which of the characteristics it might be helpful to develop in order to have the best opportunity to thrive within the International Baccalaureate.

Mrs Jane Sleeman - Deputy Principal