IB Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change

This approach to learning builds student agency and deeper understanding of complex issues, real world problems and how to approach them. UWCSEA Students who select this course as part of their IB package will enjoy a more bespoke, relevant, and flexible IB package that supports their personal ambitions and builds their capacity in the five curriculum strands.

Students will:

• Build the mindset, skills, and resilience needed to plan for positive change, challenging existing mindsets, leveraging networks, and fostering personal growth for a lasting impact on communities. (Changemaker Mindsets)
• Build approaches to problem-solving that are iterative, empathetic, and flexible; using failure, feedback, and expertise to generate innovative solutions, by understanding root causes and context. (Design Thinking)
• Learn how to use systems thinking tools to map and model interconnected systems, enabling integrated planning for positive change while recognising inherent complexity. (Systems Thinking)
• Become a leader who can empower others to effect positive change, adapt leadership style, and build effective teams. (Leadership)
• Develop skills to effectively plan, organise and implement positive change initiatives. (Project Change Management)

‘IB Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change’ is assessed entirely by coursework, balanced over the two years of the programme.

Assessment objectives for the final IB coursework components are connected to the five curriculum strands which are not taught in isolation but rather permeate the entire two years of the course. Course designers considered authentic ways of assessing these five curriculum strands to a high level, allowing students opportunities to demonstrate complex thinking and mastery of key skills.

It is important for students and parents to understand that Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change is a course within the IB Diploma, it is not a separate diploma. Once a student graduates they will have successfully completed and will be awarded their IB Diploma. What this course offers as an alternative to two Standard Level courses is the opportunity to really deep dive into a complex problem and work on solutions over an extended period of time.  Assessment is woven into the course by way project milestones and outcomes rather than the traditional 'end of course exam'. 

This course is a unique and incredibly valuable opportunity for students who are about to enter the real world to operate in a real-world way, on complex real-world problems, and engage with real-world professionals throughout their final years in High School.  A student's additional IB subjects are taught in tandem, as they would are in the traditional approach to the IB Diploma. 

To imagine what this might look like for a student, you can view some example packages below:

Students who begin their High School journey with us in Grade 9 will progress through the UWCSEA Grade 9 and Grade 10 courses which also incorporate project-based learning and assessment preparing students for their final years and the IB Diploma in Grades 11 and 12.

The natural building of skills and competencies throughout the entire High School learning journey, coupled  with the incredible real-world internship and mentoring opportunities available through our community and alumni networks, serves to put UWCSEA students on a path to success;  giving them the skills and competencies they need to embrace the exciting opportunities which await them. 

To find out more about the UWCSEA Grade 9 and 10 academic programme, please Click here