Diploma Programme

The International School Laren has been offering the IB Diploma Programme since September 2022. The programme is designed for students aged between 16 and 19 years. It is a unique curriculum, not based on the pattern of a single country, but it is a deliberate compromise ​between the specialisation required in some national systems and the breadth of learning preferred in others. This results in a rigorous programme with academic challenges balanced with core elements such as Creativity, Action and Service. The aim of the IB Diploma Programme is for students to develop a strong commitment to learning, both in terms of their mastering of a range of subjects and to develop skills and disciplines necessary for success in our competitive, global world.  

In the Diploma Programme, students take on six subjects from a broad spectrum of disciplines. Three of these subjects need to be taken on a Higher Level and three of them on a Standard Level. All students also participate in the DP Core, consisting of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Action and Service (CAS), and the Extended Essay (EE).    

Subjects offered at the ISL

LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
  • English Language and Literature (mandatory) 
  • Dutch Language and Literature (native speakers) or
  • School Supported Self-Taught Mother-tongue or
LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

Dutch Abinitio or Dutch B
INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETIES
  • Global Politics or
  • Economics or
  • Business Management
SCIENCES
  • Biology or
  • Chemistry or
  • Physics or
  • Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences
MATHEMATICS
  • Analysis & Approaches or
  • Application & Interpretation (standard only)
THE ARTS
  • Film 

 

University entry

The IB Diploma allows entry to universities around the world. In recent years, students from Dutch International Schools have been offered places all around the world, including the Netherlands. Some US universities offer advanced credit for IB Diploma students on certain courses. All leading universities in Europe recognise the IB Diploma. It is advised to research specific admission requirements for the university of your choice. The school counsellor (h.nguyen@atscholen.nl) and mentors at the International School Laren help students with this process.


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 To preview our DP Webinar from 2023 please click this link 

 

Creativity, Activity and Service - CAS 

The International Baccalaureate (IB) seeks to nurture balanced and well-rounded individuals who are internationally minded, active, compassionate, and lifelong learners—people who recognize that others, despite their differences, may also hold valid perspectives.

According to the International Baccalaureate, CAS lies at the heart of the Diploma Programme! Together with the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge, it forms the Diploma Core. Completion and documentation of students’ CAS journey are essential requirements for earning the IB Diploma. CAS offers a platform for personal and social growth—a process of self-discovery and learning that extends beyond the classroom. It compliments a challenging academic programme in a holistic way, offering opportunities for self-determination, collaboration, accomplishment and enjoyment. As such, students are encouraged to challenge themselves through experiential learning (learning by doing). In practise, this means that students engage in a variety of experiences under the strands of Creativity, Activity, and Service, and they reflect on their personal development throughout this process.

CAS strands defined:

  • Creativity—exploring and extending ideas leading to an original or interpretive product or performance

  • Activity—physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle

  • Service—collaborative and reciprocal engagement with the community in response to an authentic need

CAS emphasises learning through real, hands-on experiences that have genuine impact. Students are encouraged to take part in activities that positively influence their own lives, the lives of others and the environment, while also challenging themselves to develop new abilities or enhance existing ones. They key word is ‘challenge’ as we do not learn by remaining in a comfort zone. Growth happens when we step into the unknown!

A thoughtful, planned and well-balanced CAS programme is both purposeful and enjoyable—a journey that deepens understanding of oneself and the wider community. Many students find their CAS experiences deeply rewarding and transformative. A carefully considered programme may contribute to a future profession or perhaps even turn into a full time hobby or investment! As such, students design and take ownership of their own CAS programme, initiating and participating in experiences at local, national, and global levels. Throughout their journey, students will be encouraged to reflect meaningfully on their involvement, recognising moments of personal growth and inspiration.

 

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