Mission Statement

The International Baccalaureate develops inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment. These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

A Brief History

In September of 2001, I.E. Weldon Secondary School began its quest to become internationally recognized as a world class school. Following a rigorous application and visitation process, Weldon joined about 100 Canadian schools and 1200 schools worldwide as an IB Diploma school in March 2003.

In May 2005, Weldon’s first IB group, eighteen students in grade 11, wrote biology and physics exams. Weldon has built on the success of its first round of exams to grow to over 50 students registered for final IB exams in each of May 2009 and 2010 and over 60 in May 2011.

In a typical school year at Weldon, there are about 180 - 200 students, grades 9 through 12 involved in Power Pack and IB. Many students have found it is worth the trip to Weldon, including students from Germany, China and Brazil.

Weldon’s stellar results and entry-based-on-desire policy are part of the reason that I.E. Weldon is considered a leader amongst its fellow Ontario IB schools. About eight of Weldon's IB teachers are examiners and another six have lead workshops for fellow IB teachers. Weldon’s IB coordinator served as President of IB Schools of Ontario from 2009-2011 and continues to serve on the executive. www.ibschoolsofontario.ca

As of October 2011, there are over 2000 IB Diploma Schools worldwide and roughly 140 schools in Canada, 52 of which are in Ontario.

Overview

The IB Diploma is a rigorous two-year package (Grades 11 and 12) involving six subject areas. It provides highly motivated students with the opportunity to develop skills that will lead to increased success at university. The curriculum and evaluations are based upon international standards.

In an effort to promote a balanced lifestyle, this program requires students to participate in co-curricular and community activities. IB Diploma graduates are recognized as well-rounded, disciplined individuals who have made a notable contribution to their school and the community.

Students earn a universally recognized IB Diploma in addition to the OSSD. Many universities offer the possibility of transfer credits to IB Diploma graduates. It is our founding belief that the greatest reward for students who work hard at IB courses is the resulting higher level of performance at university. Power Pack is Weldon’s recommended preparation for IB.

For further information, follow the eight slide description “Diploma Programme at a glance” at www.ibo.org/diploma or download Weldon's IB Handbook here. For information on International Baccalaureate Recognition Policy for Canadian Universities download the file here.