Middle Years (Ages 11 - 16)

Personal, social and academic development

Our Middle Years Programme focuses on academic challenge and the development of life skills for students at a critical phase of personal development. This programme affords students spaces to explore their interests and find their voice, while preparing for the demands of their final two years of school in the Diploma Programme. 

At the end of Grade 10, students have completed the equivalent of first two years of high school in the United States, the GCSE years in Great Britain and Mittlere Reife in Germany. 

Connecting classroom learning to the greater world

Students in Grades 6 - 8 study English, German, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Physical Education, Design and the Arts to achieve a sound core of broad-based learning. Optional courses empower them to explore their interests and passions. Students in Grades 9 - 10 begin to narrow their course choices, with an eye to their strengths and what they need to achieve for university entrance or career goals.

Our curriculum is based on the educational practice of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. It encompasses the traditional school subjects mentioned above, while putting subject matter into global contexts. Our students are challenged to explore larger issues by connecting to relevant concepts and think beyond mere facts and figures.

MYP students appreciate their role in the greater world outside of their own personal microcosms and national perspectives. Our students are confident in their ability to affect positive change and well aware of their obligation as global citizens to do so. 

Owning it

Our MYP students are not passive consumers of facts and knowledge. Memorization is not the key to growth or success. This can be a big change and a big challenge from known educational systems, as students take increasing responsibility for their own learning and choices.

To support this, great emphasis in the MYP is placed on developing executive, collaborative, critical thinking, and intercultural skills. At the same time, we value student wellbeing and support students in developing healthy lifestyle and mental health habits. This holistic approach to student development is how BIS students get to their unique highest level of achievement and personal satisfaction. And it helps to keep the fun and joy of learning alive.