As parents, ensuring your child gets the best education possible is a top priority. Are you relocating to Switzerland, and considering an IB school for your child?
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. You will learn about the IB curriculum, its benefits, and why it’s one of the most sought-after educational systems globally.
What is the IB curriculum?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an educational programme for students aged 3 to 19, designed to develop well-rounded, knowledgeable, and globally-minded individuals. Established in 1968 in Switzerland, the IB focuses on academic excellence alongside personal development, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and intercultural understanding.
As of 2025, there are approximately 5’800 IB World Schools (IBWS) registered across 162 countries. Together, these institutions offer the IB curriculum to nearly 2’000’000 students. And maybe that is one of the greatest strengths of the IB: its global accessibility and recognition, which provides stability for international families and their children.
The IB’s universal acceptance allows students to transition between IB schools while maintaining the same educational programme and requirements across various countries.
Four programmes across age groups
The IB offers four programmes for students between 3 – 19:
- Primary Years Programme (PYP)
For children aged 3-12, focusing on inquiry-based learning and foundational skills. - Middle Years Programme (MYP):
For students aged 11-16, emphasizing real-world application and interdisciplinary study. - Diploma Programme (DP):
For students aged 16-19, prepare them for university with rigorous academic and research components. - Career-Related Programme (CP):
Also for 16-19-year-olds, integrating academic learning with career-focused studies.
Why is the IB popular?
The IB is popular with parents and schools for several reasons.
- Global Recognition: There are approximately 5,800 IB schools (2025) across 162 countries. Many countries, colleges, and universities worldwide highly regard IB graduates.
- Holistic Approach: Focuses on developing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
- Broad and Balanced Curriculum: Students engage with a wide range of subjects, ensuring they’re not limited in their future choices.
- Critical Thinking: Encourages students to ask challenging questions, solve problems creatively, and think independently.
- International Perspective: Promotes cultural awareness and multilingualism, preparing students for a globalized world.
How is the IB different from other curricula?
Unlike traditional education systems, the IB emphasizes:
- Interdisciplinary Learning:
Students connect knowledge across subjects, fostering a deeper understanding. - Inquiry-Based Learning:
Encourages curiosity and active participation in the learning process. - Personal Growth:
Activities like the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) projects build transferable skills like time management, research, and teamwork.
Key benefits of the IB
The IB offers several benefits that can set your child up for success. Academically, IB students consistently outperform their peers on standardized tests and enter higher education better prepared for its challenges.
Beyond academics, the IB cultivates a strong sense of global citizenship, encouraging students to become culturally aware and take responsibility for making the world a better place. IB graduates leave the program with skills like resilience, self-motivation, and problem-solving abilities.
Is the IB Right for your child?
The IB curriculum is ideal for international families seeking a globally recognized, holistic education. However, IB’s rigorous curriculum requires dedication and strong time-management skills. If your child thrives in a challenging, student-centered learning environment, the IB might be the perfect fit.
Conclusion
The International Baccalaureate stands out for its focus on creating thoughtful, well-rounded, and globally aware individuals. With a balance of academic rigor and personal growth, the IB is an excellent choice for parents who want their children to succeed in both education and life.
Are you looking for an IB school in Basel?
Read all about IB schools and browse our complete school directory with all schools in Basel-Stadt and Basel-Landschaft in the Summit Family Guide – online now. Read here.
Summit Family Guide
The complete guide to childcare, private education, and international schools in Basel. Read here.
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Read More: What is Montessori education?
