The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program introduces students to rigorous academic standards that challenge their thinking. NorKam IB students are encouraged to become leaders in the school and community and to develop "international mindedness." What makes the IBDP unique is the way that courses provide an opportunity for higher-level thinking, discourse and a more integrated study of current world issues, without being fixated on percentages that don't necessarily reflect what the learner is actually capable of in a post-secondary learning environment, or a professional workplace.
The IB Program is recognized and valued by all major universities in Canada and numerous prestigious colleges and universities world-wide. Above average achievement in the IB program will attract early academic admissions, offers of scholarship money and even university-level credit at many post-secondary institutions. Many studies have shown that students who successfully complete the Diploma Program have higher academic success and better resilience in their post-secondary studies. Students who go on to attend universities such as UVIC, UBC, SFU, TRU and others can earn university credit for up to five of their first year courses.
If you require information, please call the school or contact program coordinators: Mr. Trevor Pendergast tpendergast@sd73.bc.ca and/or Mr. Bryan Uyeda buyeda@sd73.bc.ca
Although straight A’s in all grade 10 courses would be an asset, an 80% average is the recommended minimum level of achievement to be admitted to our program.
Students should be prepared to dedicate themselves to the rigour of the program and to their learning for the two-year period. Regular homework will be required.
Unlike regular course programming, students will need to develop habits of regular, independent, focused review of course material to maximize long-term commitment to memory and to build on prior knowledge.
Before entering the IB Diploma Program, students must have completed the following courses:
English 10
Math 10
Social Studies 10
Science 10
PE 10
CLE10
French 10 (if taking Language B: French), and
Four credits of Indigenous-Focused coursework at the grade 10-12 level.
It is highly recommended that students take either Chemistry 11 or Physics 11 in their grade 10 year if they are serious about taking Sciences in university. We also strongly recommend Pre-Calculus 11, as preparation for DP Mathematics.
Fill out the online admission form located on the NKSS webpage under "Our Schools/Programs," and then print off the application forms for the DP. Deliver the forms to the NorKam Office.
Total cost of the IB Programme is $1,200 over two years or $600 per year.