What is an IB education?

The Grande Prairie Composite High School is an approved school for International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The IB program is designed as an academically challenging and balanced program of education with final examinations that prepare high school students for success at University and beyond. A full IB high school curriculum includes required courses in a second language, social studies, mathematics, and sciences with exams at the end of the two-year program. Exams are marked by external IB specialists.  The Grande Prairie Composite High School is the first Alberta school north of Edmonton to offer an IB program.

Grade 10 programme options

• Pre-IB courses are offered for English, Social Studies, Math, and Science

Grades 11-12 programme options

There are three options students can choose from to engage in this exciting program in grades 11 and 12

The Board of Trustees is very supportive of these types of opportunities for our students therefore it is important to note that IB program fees and busing costs are covered by GPPSD for students that reside within the city of Grande Prairie..  

Life in the 21st Century, in an interconnected, globalized world, requires critical-thinking skills and a sense of international-mindedness. The rigor and challenge inherent in the IB program facilitate the development of these skills in students who participate in the program.

IB students develop strong ac ademic, social and emotional characteristics. They are also likely to perform well academically – often better than students in other programs.

We aim to inspire a quest for learning throughout life that is marked by enthusiasm and empathy. The IB aspires to help schools develop well-rounded students with character who respond to challenges with optimism and an openmind, are confident in their own identities, make ethical decisions, join with others in celebrating our common humanity and are prepared to apply what they learn in real-world, complex and unpredictable situations.  (The IB Diploma Programme: Education for a better world)

Learner Profile

Representing capacities potential IB students may possess

TOK (Theory of Knowledge)

• Explore knowledge issues & mysteries of the universe…

EE (Extended Essay)

• Explore your passion across knowledge areas.

CAS (Creativity, Action, Service)

• Creativity-Musical performances,film, theatre and more!

• Action - Being a coach, an athlete or volunteer!

• Service - Supporting the community locally and internationally!

IB at GPCHS

Grade 10i 

To introduce students to IB through:

• IB groupings in English, Social, Math & Science

• Pre-CAS KIVA-Interact club

Grade 11 & 12 

Three IB paths are open for students to choose from:

1. IB Diploma (full IB program)

• Spanish AB Initio

• EE (Extended Essay)

• TOK (Theory of Knoweldge)

• CAS (Creativity, Action, Service)

• IB Standard level (SL) Math, Chemistry

• IB Higher level (HL) Biology, History and English

2.  IB Certificate (partial IB program)

•  Students may take individual HL/SL courses and TOK for IB credit

3. IB Cohort

• Students may enroll in individual HL/SL courses and TOK, but choose not to register for IB assessments

For More Information

For more information on the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program go to:  www.ibo.org/diploma/ or www.gppsd.ab.ca/school/gpcomposite/

2022-2023 IB Parent Student Handbook.pdf

Or contact:

Mr. Dennis Vobeyda
Principal, Grande Prairie Composite High School 
P: 780-532-7721 | E: dennis.vobeyda@gppsd.ab.ca​