Middle Years Curriculum

The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) is designed for students aged 11-16. In this period students undergo a critical phase in their personal, social and intellectual development. The MYP guides our students to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills they need to participate actively and responsibly in a changing and increasingly interrelated world. The MYP accommodates the demands of most national or local curriculums. It builds upon the knowledge, skills and attitudes developed in the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and prepares the students to meet the academic challenges of the IB Diploma Programme.

The Middle Years Programme at ISSH is holistic in its approach. It aims to educate the whole person - physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically. It encourages students to consider and understand the connections between traditional subjects and the real world, and become critical and reflective thinkers.

Intercultural awareness is a unique characteristic in the IB’s mission that education will foster understanding amongst young people around the world, enabling future generations to live more peacefully and productively. The programme inspires the students to evaluate multiple perspectives from different cultures and to participate actively in their communities.

Development of communication skills is fundamental to learning, as it supports inquiry and understanding, and allows students to reflect and express themselves. The MYP places particular emphasis on language acquisition in three languages (English, German and French). Students are encouraged to explore multiple forms of expression and modern communication tools.

The MYP challenges the students to understand and manage the complexities of our world and to solve problems in a creative way. The students will realize that effective solutions often draw upon insights acquired from many sources. The MYP encourages students to take responsible action for the future. It provides the opportunity for students in grade 10 to undertake an independent personal project into an area of the student’s interest.