Published on July 15, 2022
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Career-related Programme (CP) is a unique programme addressing the needs of students engaged in career-related education. It guides students to further studies, apprenticeships, or employment.
We met with HVGS Director of IB Programmes Pauliene O’Grady to find out what career opportunities this presents for students and why other students should consider this pathway.
Why is the IB CP a pathway students should explore?
It is a great way for students to develop skills in applied knowledge, critical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural engagement in their interested career. It is a real world approach to learning.
Students can study their career of choice whilst guided by their teachers in a supportive environment.
What are the students currently studying in the IBCP at HVGS?
Students are studying Early Childhood Education and Care, Primary Industries and Support Services (Aged Care). Two Year 11 students have moved into further studies. One student was granted early entry into Tocal Agriculture College, and another accepted a hospitality apprenticeship.
Currently, a Year 12 student is undertaking her career studies in VET Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in our Early Learning Centre (ELC). She is refining her skills in a real-world setting, positioning her as a preferred applicant as she transitions into the workforce.
What other aspects of the IBCP support the development of students’ careers?
There are many aspects of the IBCP that support students’ careers, including:
- Students undertake 50 hours of service learning to apply their skills in a practical setting, whilst helping others.
- Students are given the opportunity to use this service towards attaining a Duke of Edinburgh Award.
- Courses in personal and professional skills and language development, teach skills suited to a workplace.
- The Reflective Project develops research and critical thinking skills, by investigating an ethical dilemma associated with a students’ career area.
- Completing two Diploma courses develops students’ academic skills.
What qualifications will the students receive by the end of the programme, and what are their options postschool?
Students will graduate with a VET Certificate in their career area plus the IB Career-related Programme Certificate.