As the world becomes more interconnected and globalized, the demand for international education has increased significantly. The best international schools in the Philippines have become popular choices for parents who seek to provide children.
They have an education that prepares them for a future in a diverse, multicultural world. International schools offer a wide range of curriculum offerings that cater to the needs of students from different backgrounds and nationalities.
Curriculum Offerings
International schools in the Philippines offer various curriculum options, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), American Curriculum, and the Philippine Curriculum. Each curriculum has its unique features, advantages, and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for your child requires careful consideration of several factors.
The International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a highly respected and sought-after program that has gained global recognition for its rigorous academic standards and holistic approach to education. It is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and a global perspective.
The IB program is divided into three levels: the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Program (MYP), and the Diploma Program (DP).
Primary Years Program
The PYP is designed for students aged 3 to 12 and focuses on developing foundational skills in subjects such as mathematics, language, science, social studies, and the arts.
Middle Years Program
The MYP is designed for students aged 11 to 16 and offers a comprehensive education that includes language and literature, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, arts, and physical education.
Diploma Program
The DP, on the other hand, is designed for students aged 16 to 19 and is considered the most challenging and rigorous of the three programs. It is a two-year program that prepares students for university and offers a range of subjects, including language and literature, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and the arts.
Approach to Education
One of the key features of the IB curriculum is its holistic approach to education. The program emphasizes not only academic growth but also personal and social development, as well as community service and leadership development.
The IB learner profile, which is at the heart of the program, describes the attributes that the IB aims to develop in students, including being open-minded, caring, reflective, and principled. Through the program, students are encouraged to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners who understand and respect different cultures and perspectives.
Inquire-Based Learning
The IB curriculum is also known for its emphasis on inquiry-based learning, which encourages students to ask questions, think critically, and engage in research. This approach to learning helps students develop their curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The program also promotes a deep understanding of concepts and ideas, rather than just memorization of facts and figures.
The Cambridge International Examinations
The Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) curriculum is another popular choice for international schools in the Philippines. It offers a comprehensive and integrated program that covers a broad range of subjects and levels. The CIE curriculum is designed to prepare students for further education and the workplace by developing their critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. It is also recognized globally and offers students a chance to earn qualifications that are highly valued by universities and employers worldwide.
The American Curriculum
The American Curriculum is another popular option for international schools in the Philippines. It is designed to provide students with a broad and balanced education that prepares them for university study in the United States or other countries. The American Curriculum is based on a system of credits, and students must accumulate a certain number of credits to graduate. The curriculum emphasizes student-centered learning and incorporates a range of assessment methods, including tests, projects, and presentations.
The Philippine Curriculum
The Philippine Curriculum is the standard curriculum used in all Philippine schools, including international schools. It is based on the Department of Education’s (DepEd) K-12 program, which aims to provide students with a quality education that meets international standards. The program covers 13 years of basic education, which is divided into kindergarten, six years of primary education, four years of junior high school, and two years of senior high school.
The curriculum is designed to develop students’ 21st-century skills, which include critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity, and digital literacy. It aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world, where innovation and adaptability are essential. The program also emphasizes the importance of values education, which promotes moral and ethical values, as well as social responsibility and respect for diversity.
Key Takeaway
International schools in the Philippines offer a wide range of curriculum options that cater to the needs of students from different backgrounds and nationalities. Choosing the right curriculum requires careful consideration of several factors, including your child’s learning style, future goals, and academic strengths. Ultimately, the right curriculum will provide your child with an education that prepares them for a successful future in a diverse, multicultural world.
