Grade 6 to grade 10

International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (authorized school)

The IB Middle Years Program (MYP) is a rigorous curriculum that builds on the inquiry-based IB Primary Years Program. Students study 5 academic courses (English, Spanish and/or French, social studies, science and mathematics) with an emphasis on interdisciplinary connections and critical thinking. Stratford Hall teachers are highly trained in the MYP methodologies. All subjects are taught by specialist teachers, and all subjects meet or exceed Ministry of Education guidelines.

To develop balanced lives, students also take part in an extensive and unique experiential program. Students at all grades take physical education, connections (personal planning), outdoor education, music and theatre.

Outdoor education exposes students to a variety of activities, including sea kayaking, snowshoeing, wall climbing and sailing. Much of the program is operated off campus at one of Vancouver’s many excellent facilities. Students enjoy 3 hours a week of outdoor education.

Connections is a course that covers requirements for health and career education, but in addition makes links between subjects through the Areas of Interaction.

Beginning at grade 6, students take theatre instruction, primarily in the style of Cirque de Soleil activities (juggling, aerobatics, and acrobatics). Stratford Hall has a room specially designed for this work. Students also take music, primarily using Taiko drums and marimbas.

A major feature of the IB Middle Years Program is the ‘Areas of Interaction’. The table below shows how it connects to our own focus on respect. Two other ideas also drive the MYP at Stratford Hall. As much learning as possible is done through inquiry - seeking knowledge through carefully crafted questions that connect a variety of aspects of the curriculum. Secondly, critical thinking is promoted through assignments that move students well beyond recalling facts.

Click on the image to view the Stratford Hall C.L.O.S.E. Table in a pop-up window

The learning environment at Stratford Hall is built upon a close relationship with outstanding teachers, who create a curriculum that challenges and interests the students. The atmosphere is one of collaboration, cooperation and the pursuit of excellence.