Since our authorization in 2006, King George has offered the Middle Years Programme (MYP), an International Baccalaureate (IB) programme for students aged 11-16. The Middle Years Programme is an inclusive and internationally recognized programme which provides a framework of learning based on educational research and best practices. All students at King George in Grades 8, 9 and 10 are enrolled in the MYP. In addition, we have partnered with Elsie Roy Elementary and Lord Roberts Elementary to form the Downtown Family of Schools. Students complete Years 1 and 2 of the programme (Grades 6 and 7) at our elementary partner schools before transitioning smoothly into Years 3-5 (Grades 8-10) at King George.

The MYP Curriculum

Teaching in the Middle Years Programme Students is rooted in inquiry-based learning, concept-based learning and interdisciplinary learning. Students in the MYP take eight broad subject groups: Math, Sciences, Physical and health education (PE), Language and literature (English). Individuals and societies (social studies), Arts, Language acquisition (French), and Design (applied skills). In addition, students in all years of the programme have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary learning and service learning, and students in Grade 10 complete an independent Personal Project based on their own passions, interests and learning goals.

Assessment in the MYP

Assessment in the MYP is criterion-based. Each subject is divided into four criteria. These criteria, which are key skills or competencies within that subject, are each marked on an 8-point rubric. Students are given multiple opportunities to practice skills and receive feedback through formative assessment before demonstrating their learning on summative assessments. At the end of the course, their achievement levels in each of the four criteria are combined to form a final criterion total out of 32, which is translated into an Overall Level of Achievement (OLA). These criteria and achievement levels are internationally recognized and are standard worldwide for all IB MYP schools.

Global Contexts and Approaches to Learning

The MYP aims to create opportunities for interdisciplinary learning that links the different subjects together. In each of the eight subjects, units are anchored to real-world learning and the world outside of school through six broad Global Contexts. Students also learn through the MYP's Approaches to Learning (ATLs), which are crucial, interdisciplinary skills such as communication, collaboration and thinking skills, similar to the BC Ministry of Education's Core Competencies. 

The Middle Years Programme is an inclusive programme that can provide a rich, balanced education to students of all abilities and interests. King George is committed to ensuring the highest quality of learning experience for all students within an inclusive, anti-racist learning environment. Through the MYP, we are committed to the development of our students as inquiring, knowledgeable, caring and responsible citizens who will help to create a more peaceful and sustainable world through intercultural and global awareness, understanding, and respect.