The International Baccalaureate has just announced the authorisation of its 1000th IB programme in the Asia Pacific region.The Keystone Academy, a bilingual school in Beijing which draws from Chinese, American and International learning, has recently been named as the 1000th IB programme in the region. The announcement brings the total number of schools to 700, across 29 countries.The International Baccalaureate is a popular choice for families on the move due to its international transferability and recognition and its excellent track record at enabling entry for students into the world’s top universities.

Asia Pacific: 1000th International Baccalaureate programme

“I am delighted that we have just authorised the 1,000th programme in Asia Pacific, which demonstrates the reception to the IB’s programmes by so many different kinds of schools across the region,” said Siva Kumari, IB Director General, commenting on the milestone for the International Baccalaureate Organisation.“I congratulate all the schools who have recently been authorised for their achievement and their belief in the IB system and, in particular, the Keystone Academy in Beijing, which also happens to be our 1,000th. We wish each and every school success in their learning adventures.”During the IB’s verification visit, inspectors found that Keystone Academy placed a great importance on language learning, including mother tongue, host country language and other languages.The school is committed to a bilingual environment and is keen for a significant number of students to work towards a bilingual diploma. The school is also a strong advocate of emphasizing local culture within the Diploma Programme, and parents were particularly impressed with this emphasis.Malcolm McKenzie, Founding Head of School, Keystone Academy said, “Keystone Academy is delighted to be the 1,000th IB programme authorised in Asia Pacific and ready to teach the IB Diploma Programme. Many of us at Keystone know the DP very well, and we know it to be the best pre-university preparation anywhere.”“It is especially valuable in the Asian context as it adds a fresh approach to the strong traditions of learning in many of our countries.”

International Baccalaureate expands into Malaysia

The International Baccalaureate has also seen significant development in Malaysia. Back in 2011, Agensi Innovasi Malaysia, a statutory body, approached the IB to design a curriculum to meet the needs of the 21st-century learning priorities for 10 secondary schools in the region. The first school following the initiative will receive authorisation to offer the IB Middle Years Programme during 2016.“Both Agensi Innovasi Malaysia and the IB are committed to enabling greater access to the IB programmes across Malaysia. The additional of the 10 schools will bring the total of IB World Schools in Malaysia to 19, and we’re positive that there will be many more to follow,” said Ashish Trivedi, the IB’s MYP School Services Manager.Andrew Macdonald, Chief Schools Officer, added, “I would like to extend my congratulations to all schools achieving authorisation this year and welcome them to the IB family. You are part of a growing community of educational institutions determined to make the world a better place through high-quality international education.”“In Greater China, Malaysia and the rest of the Asia Pacific region we continue to see steady growth in all IB programmes. They join the community of IB World Schools preparing students with the skills they will need to succeed at university and life beyond. Skills such as complex problem solving, critical thinking and creativity so valued by leading global employers are at the heart of the IB programmes, teaching and learning."The first edition of Re:locate Global’s new annual Guide to International Education & Schools is now available and is an invaluable resource for HR, global managers, employers, relocation professionals and relocating parents. Its unique editorial content, beautiful illustrations and high-quality production make it a first in the global mobility market. Content includes informative, engaging features and practical advice on choosing a school and curriculum choices in relocation destinations around the world, including the UK, the USA, Canada, Europe, China, Vietnam, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Middle East. Directories of schools, school associations and suppliers are also included.

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