 Our
Grade 11 students have now experienced a month of the International
Baccalaureate programme. A brief survey conducted last week
provides some interesting insights into a few of their first
impressions and concerns-
"It is a tough challenge but I am going well, so
far!"
"The courses are really demanding and you feel pressurized
much of the time."
"I like that we’re being treated like adults, given
opportunities and responsibilities to manage what we learn."
"There is a lot of stress because you actually have to
finish everything on time."
"Really
worthwhile because it’s internationally recognised and
I won’t have to do a foundation course, but the syllabus
is difficult. "
"I’m
happy to be able to take Business and Economics instead of
all the sciences."
"It’s
not so different Biology is still my favourite subject because
we still do lots of practicals and group-work in it."
"Classes
are smaller and having study periods is great, but we do have
a lot of research to do now."
"The
quizzes and assignments seem to be piling up- you have to
be really organised and disciplined."
"I
love TOK, a philosophical course that really makes you think!"
In response to this very valid concern regarding workload
management (ie. timing of tests and assignment), Mr Clark
has consulted IB teachers and drawn up a schedule to spread
test and assignment dates fairly).
Ray
Zinsli
IB Coordinator |
The
new school year is now well underway and already it seems
as if we are still embroiled in the momentum of last session
as the pace heats up for another very busy schedule ahead.
Who, however, would want it any different? Such activity,
the many initiatives and the new developments are all clear
indicators of a healthy, developing school. I have always
said that in education, you cannot stand still - to try to
do so will result in you going backwards. The Sultan’s
School is very much going forward and I for one am happy to
hang on and enjoy the journey. The pages of this edition will
give you an insight into the vibrancy of our school community.
My thanks to all those staff and students who have combined
so admirably to make such a smooth and productive start to
the school year possible. 
