The IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging education that is recognized by universities across the world. The balanced programme focuses on specific subjects across six subject groups and skill development in the DP core programme.
The IB offers an exclusive, high standard and internationally oriented education to students aged 3 to 19 years. Across four programmes, from primary school to pre-university education, the IB aims to develop inquisitive, knowledgeable and caring young people by encouraging critical thinking skills, curiosity, problem solving and reflection on your own progress. Because the IB is open to students from all nationalities, keeping an open mind is also an important part of the educational programme.
For students aged 16-19 the IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging, internationally recognized programme that prepares you for university and beyond. More information about the IB and the DP can be found online at https://ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme.
The Diploma Programme at sea
At Schola Polaris, we believe that you do not need to be in a classroom to receive an education. Together with our academic partner, SEK International School Global Campus, we provide Year 1 of the Diploma Programme (DP) of the International Baccalaureate (IB).
During the expedition, we climbed a volcano on Tenerife. Some parts were very difficult but we did it. We saw the whole landscape from above and we saw how the island was formed.
Annick, former participant
The IB has been working with selected, qualified partner organizations to deliver a fully online version of the DP. Together with one of these organizations, SEK International School Global Campus, Schola Polaris is taking this one step further, by employing modern technologies that make it possible to follow an online curriculum while sailing the world!
On the ship, you complete all your first-year Diploma Programme subjects through a combination of live online classes taught by qualified SEK teachers. There is on-board support for the DP core and subject groups from experts in those topics. You also engage in hands-on learning that deepens your understanding of social and environmental issues. This offers amazing opportunities within the DP curriculum as well and it makes learning truly come to life.
Weekly schedule
At Schola Polaris, you follow a dynamic weekly schedule that combines academic learning with duties on board. Every week has school days, watch days and days for reflection and portfolio writing.
3 days
IB Diploma Programme
Online live lessons, synchronous and independent coursework, and academic growth.
3 days
Watch duties and sailtraining
Sailing the ship, doing chores, keeping lookout, and doing everything else that is necessary to ensure safe travel. During watch, you get hands-on experience sailing a tall ship. Eventually, you and your peers sail the ship yourselves during a ship takeover.
1 day
Portfolio and reflection
One day of the week is spent on working on your portfolio, the DP core curriculum, extra assignments, and reflecting on the voyage so far.
A school day at sea
On school days, it’s time to hit the books and stay focused. Doing live online lessons and independent work ensures that you keep up with the IB Diploma Programme.
8:00 AM
Breakfast time
Time to kick-start the day! Get dressed and start the day together with a hearty breakfast to fuel your morning.
8:30 – 9:00 AM
Get ready
Grab your books and a laptop and join us in the study room! Check your schedule, get organized and make sure you’re all set for your online live lessons.
9:10 – 10:00 AM
Synchronous biology lesson
The first session of the day is an online, live, and synchronous session with a biology teacher from SEK International School Global Campus. Log in, join the online class, and get ready to dive into today’s topics.
10:10 – 11:00 AM
Synchronous mathematics lesson
Log in for your second lesson. Your teacher will guide you through the curriculum, and you complete tasks that deepen your understanding.
11:10 – 12:00 AM
Synchronous Spanish lesson.
Time for the last synchronous session! Stay focused, give it your best, and get ready to work on your Spanish so you can use the language in one of the spectacular destinations.
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Lunch
A delicious meal is served, prepared by your fellow students on galley duty (with some help from the chef, of course). Will they impress you with their culinary skills?
1:10 – 3:00 PM
Office hours
Take time to process what you’ve learned. Finish exercises and review your notes, making sure you are on top of everything. On board tutors can support you with any challenges you may face or maybe your online teacher is available for questions as well.
3:10 – 4:00 PM
Synchronous English session
Another online lesson! Log in and dive into your studies for the afternoon.
4:10 – 5:00 PM
Synchronous History session
The final lesson of the day! Give it your all and finish strong.
5:10 – 7:00 PM
Asynchronous work
Practice makes perfect! Use this time to complete any independent exercises and homework that was assigned by your online teachers, or work on something relating to the voyage or sailtraining.
7:00 PM
Dinner
Gather for a delicious dinner, sharing great food and breathtaking ocean views with your shipmates.
8:00 – 10:00 PM
Free time
End your day with fun activities such as movie night, watching the sunset, climbing the mast, playing games, or learning to play the guitar. Whether you’re relaxing on deck, writing an e-mail home, or working on your portfolio, there’s always something exciting or relaxing to experience to wrap up the day!
Second year (IB DP2)
The IB Diploma Programme is a two year programme. Only year 1 (DP1) can be
completed at sea. You may continue with SEK International School Global Campus and enroll in the second year of the online Diploma Programme (DP2) or enroll in a local SEK International School. It is also possible to transfer to a different (non SEK) local IB DP school.
This flexibility allows you to tailor your learning to fit your needs. Regardless of the option you choose, you will receive a high-quality education, ensuring a successful path to completing the IB Diploma.