Students discuss ‘Success for the future’ at IB Diploma Retreat

Year 12 IB Diploma students went on a retreat last week to learn the intricacies of the IB Diploma Course. This involved a three day learning course to build their knowledge up for a course that they are undertaking over the next 18 months.

Andy Emery (IBDP Coordinator) said “It is an ideal opportunity to get the students to reflect on what has been a hectic start of the year. They have been involved in a lot of community projects as well as a new and vigorous academic programme. The students can get together, team build and properly learn what the requirements of the Diploma are. We will be discussing how to cope with learning styles, deadlines, applying for universities, CAS projects as well as ways to cope with pressure and stress”

Oat (student) explained “It has been a pretty demanding start to the Diploma, there are lots of new challenges that we have to come to terms with. This retreat has been ideal for us to learn to deal with what is expected in the IB Diploma. I feel that I know where I am now heading to over the next 2 years.”  

Students also spent time building the masterplan for the ‘St. Andrews School Fair’ which will take place on Thursday 17^th November. The IB Year 12 team are given the task to run all aspects of the school fair including PA, acts, raffle, raffle prizes, fundraising, catering and stall organization. Head of Secondary Kevin McGee explained “Over the last 5 years IB Diploma Students have had the opportunity to organize the school fair. It is great for their development as young adults. It gives them management and organizational skills, which will really help them in the future. It is also for a fantastic cause as well, as students usually raise a lot of money for the various charities the school supports.”

The retreat wasn’t all work and no play, however, as students wound down with a variety of team sports and beach games. Mild said “It has been a great experience… we have learnt a lot over the last few days. It was great to relax in the evenings though, and play some fun games. I feel that the group has bonded really well. “