Benefits of the IB Program

IB Profile

The IB Advantage

The International Baccalaureate is a world-leading curricular framework that emphasizes inquiry and encourages students to become active and compassionate lifelong learners and true citizens of the world. The goal of an IB education is to inspire students to become risk takers who are open-minded, principled and reflective.

Recognized around the world, the IB education is the ultimate passport in an increasingly global context.

Principal David Hamilton explains the IB Program

The International Baccalaureate Organization is also a vast educational resource that provides our faculty with access to leading, teaching and learning practices through an extended professional development network.

Founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 1968, The International Baccalaureate was originally a non-profit educational foundation focused on internationally-mobile students preparing for university. As technological, economic and social advances transformed the world, the IB has become the first choice of schools because of its global focus, emphasis on student-centred learning and recognition by the best-known universities.

The IB has grown into three interdisciplinary programs for students aged 3-19, all of which are offered at The York School. The result is a seamless progression of skills and learning that supports students through every stage of their development and prepares them to excel in any university program.

Primary Years Program (PYP)

The PYP is designed for students in JK to grade 5. Drawing on research and best practices from around the world, it offers an engaging and challenging framework for all children. With a focus on the overall growth of the child, this curriculum addresses academic needs along with social, physical, emotional and cultural development. The foundation of the PYP is a commitment to guided inquiry: when students ask questions and become self-directed, their learning is stimulating and relevant.

Middle Years Program (MYP)

For students in grades 6 to 10, the MYP combines academic excellence with opportunities to engage in the world. MYP students learn how to critically evaluate personal and global issues while developing their approach to learning. Within the context of three fundamental concepts – Holistic/Global education, Communication, and Intercultural Awareness – students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world.

IB Diploma Program (DP)
A challenging two-year program, the DP is for students in their final years of high school. Students earn a qualification and an IB Diploma, which is recognized globally as the gold standard in education. The DP teaches the oral, writing, research and analytical skills necessary for success. It also promotes well-roundedness through the Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) requirement that immerses students in experiences beyond the classroom and enriches their understanding of themselves and their world.

About the York School

The York School is a gender-inclusive JK to Grade 12 independent school located in the heart of Toronto. The York School was founded in 1965 and is the first English speaking school in Canada accredited to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) from junior kindergarten (JK) to university entrance. As an IB World School, The York School's motto is Experience Teaches.