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LIVE. LEARN. LEAD | QUEEN MARGARET COLLEGE 3 Welcome to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme! This is a prestigious two year qualification recognised worldwide and recommended by universities in New Zealand and overseas. The IB Diploma is the natural progression from the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme taught at Queen Margaret College and is widely respected throughout the world. It has been established since 1968 and is a course recommended for any student who is planning to attend a tertiary institution, as it focuses on the skills required for university study. It is not a course restricted to more able students. The IB Organisation is adamant that any student contemplating university study is a suitable IB Diploma candidate. The IB Diploma is currently taught in over 2400 schools throughout the world. The IB Diploma programme educates both the minds and the hearts of the students, who are enriched by a rigorous academic programme which enables them to gain acceptance at universities worldwide including New Zealand. Concurrent with this, students become citizens of the world - appreciating and practising international- mindedness. The concept of creating a life-long learner with a global perspective is the philosophy underpinning this curriculum. The programme of study includes a wide range of subjects plus a Theory of Knowledge course, an Extended Essay, a commitment to voluntarily participating in one or more artistic or creative endeavours, taking part in some form of physical activity, and undertaking a service project which will benefit others. These latter components are referred to as CAS - Creativity, Activity and Service. Studies have shown that IB Diploma students are extremely successful at university because they are well-educated, mature, highly organised and, above all, independent thinkers who are highly valued by universities and employers. The IB Diploma encompasses a very different approach from the NCEA course, as it specifically focuses on critical thinking and the skills required for university. However, both the IB Diploma course and the NCEA courses demand equal academic application from students for successful completion. Introduction