The MGIS IB-PYP Journey: From Candidacy to Being Ready for Authorization
8, January 2025
We’re excited to share the progress we’ve made in bringing the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) to life. Each step has demonstrated our dedication to providing a comprehensive and engaging education.This journey reflects the hard work of our staff, students, and parents as we align with the IB philosophy, build a supportive community, and create engaging learning spaces.
In this blog, we will highlight the steps MGIS has taken to bring the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) to life, highlighting our milestones, challenges, and achievements:
Phase 1: Application and Commitment
- Submitted Application for Candidacy:Formally expressed our intent to implement the IB-PYP, outlining our vision and readiness.
- Challenge: Understanding the rigorous requirements and aligning our goals with the IB philosophy.
- Achievement:Accepted as a candidate school, marking the start of our PYP journey.
Phase 2: Building Understanding
- Conducted Initial Training:Teachers and leaders attended IB workshops to understand the framework and philosophy.
- Challenge:Adapting to a completely new approach to teaching and learning.
- Achievement: Staff embraced the PYP’s inquiry-based learning and holistic philosophy.
Phase 3: Laying the Foundation
- Developed Key Policies: Created school policies for academic honesty, assessment, inclusion, and language to align with IB standards.
- Challenge: Drafting policies that reflect IB standards while meeting local regulations.
- Achievement: Successfully implemented policies to guide PYP practices.
Phase 4: Curriculum Planning
- Initiated Collaborative Planning:Teachers began creating transdisciplinary units of inquiry aligned with the PYP framework.
- Challenge: Moving from traditional subject-based planning to integrated and inquiry-driven units.
- Achievement: Completed the first set of units showcasing alignment with IB standards.
Phase 5: Resource Development
- Enhanced Learning Spaces: Updated classrooms with materials and resources to support inquiry and collaboration.
- Challenge: Balancing budget constraints with the need for IB-recommended resources.
- Achievement: Created stimulating environments for hands-on and inquiry-based learning.
Phase 6: Professional Development
- Ongoing Training:Continued IB workshops and peer-led training sessions to deepen understanding of PYP practices.
- Challenge: Ensuring all staff remain motivated and engaged throughout the process.
- Achievement: Built a team of confident and reflective educators committed to the PYP philosophy.
Phase 7: Community Engagement
- Involved Parents and Stakeholders: Held PYP orientation sessions and shared regular updates to build awareness and excitement.
- Challenge: Addressing questions and concerns from parents unfamiliar with the PYP.
- Achievement: Fostered a supportive and informed school community.
Phase 8: Trial Implementation
- Launched PYP Units in Classrooms: Piloted transdisciplinary units and integrated student agency into daily learning.
- Challenge: Monitoring consistency and ensuring all teachers implement the PYP framework effectively.
- Achievement: Students showcased curiosity, creativity, and a strong sense of ownership in their learning.
Phase 9: Preparing for Authorization
- Conducted Self-Study:Reflected on our practices and progress, aligning them with IB standards and practices.
- Challenge: Identifying areas for improvement and addressing them effectively within tight timelines.
- Achievement: Gained clarity and confidence in our readiness for the authorization visit.
Phase 10: Mock Candidacy Visit
- Conducted internal reviews: to prepare for the formal visit by IB representatives.
- Challenge:Simulating the visit while ensuring staff remained calm and prepared.
- Achievement:Identified and addressed last-minute gaps, ensuring a smooth process.
Phase 11: Candidacy Visit
- Candidacy Visit by IB Representatives:Hosted IB consultants to review MGIS’s readiness for PYP implementation and provide guidance.
- Challenge: Ensuring all documentation, teaching practices, and policies aligned with IB expectations during the visit.
- Achievement: Received positive feedback and actionable insights to further enhance our implementation process.
Current Status
Ready and Waiting: MGIS is now fully prepared for the IB-PYP authorization visit, confident in showcasing our journey and commitment to excellence.
Achievement: Created a thriving learning environment rooted in the PYP framework, ready to earn official IB World School status.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges, but each step has brought us closer to transforming learning at MGIS. We’re excited to take the next step and officially become an IB World School!
Let's Get Social!
Stay connected with the MGIS School community beyond the classroom by following us on our social media accounts. Get real-time updates, glimpses of student life, and more!
Facebook: @ModernGlobalInternationalSchool
Twitter: @MGIS_KSA
Instagram: @mgis_ksa
LinkedIn: @ModernGlobalInternationalSchool
Snapchat: @mgisdc
Tiktok: @mgischools
