The IB Career-related Programme (CP) is an innovative educational pathway that combines academic rigor with real-world skills and career-focused education for students aged 16 to 19. Launched by the International Baccalaureate (IB), the CP is designed for students who wish to engage in career-related learning while also gaining a strong educational foundation. Here’s an overview of the CP curriculum structure:

1. Core Components

The CP is designed around four core components that provide a framework for personal and professional development:

  • Personal and Professional Skills (PPS):

    • This course focuses on developing skills necessary for effective citizenship, such as communication, teamwork, ethics, and critical thinking. It helps students reflect on their personal strengths and weaknesses, preparing them for the workforce and further education.

  • Service Learning:

    • Students engage in community service that ties into their career-related studies. They are encouraged to reflect on their experiences to understand their impact and develop empathy and ethical considerations relevant to their chosen career paths.

  • Reflective Project:

    • This project involves an in-depth research assignment based on a real-world issue or problem that is relevant to students’ career-related studies. Students investigate the issue, reflect on their findings, and present their conclusions in a format of their choice.

  • Language Development:

    • Students are encouraged to develop their language skills, particularly in a language that is relevant to their career interests. This component enhances their communication abilities in a professional context.

2. Academic and Career-related Studies

In addition to the core components, students in the IB CP are required to study a minimum of two IB Diploma Programme courses from the six subject groups, which allows them to tailor their academic path according to their career goals. Subjects are chosen based on relevance to the student’s intended career field and may include:

  • Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
  • Group 2: Language Acquisition
  • Group 3: Individuals and Societies
  • Group 4: Sciences
  • Group 5: Mathematics
  • Group 6: The Arts or additional subjects from Groups 1-4

3. Career-related Learning

Students also engage in a career-related education component. This can be delivered through:

  • Vocational coursework: Students may take courses that provide practical skills and knowledge directly related to their career interests.
  • Internships or Work Experience: Opportunities for hands-on experiences that allow students to apply their learning in real-world settings and establish professional connections.

4. Assessment

  • Core Components Assessment: The core components of the CP are assessed via internal assessments, including the reflective project and ongoing evaluations of student engagement in personal and professional skills and service learning.

  • Diploma Programme Courses Assessment: The subject courses that students take will be assessed in accordance with the IB assessment policies, including external and internal evaluations.

5. Learning Outcomes

The IB CP aims to develop students who:

  • Are equipped with practical skills and knowledge applicable to their chosen career paths.
  • Initiate and engage in community service and personal growth experiences.
  • Understand the ethical implications of their career choices and decisions.
  • Exhibit strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Are prepared for further education, training, or immediate employment.

Summary

The IB Career-related Programme provides a unique blend of academic and career-related education, ideal for students who are looking to prepare for specific fields while maintaining rigorous educational standards. It fosters personal growth and prepares students for successful transitions into the workforce or further education. The CP emphasizes real-world applications, making it an appealing option for those who thrive in practical, career-focused environments.