High School
The ISR High School programme is a 4-year university preparatory curriculum that aims to develop the habits necessary for creative and critical thinking, collaborative and independent study and effective communication. Students consolidate their research and writing skills as well as an ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world issues. In Grades 9 and 10, students follow the IB MYP and in Grades 11 and 12, ISR implements the prestigious IB DP.
THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a pre-university course of studies, leading to examinations that meet the needs of highly motivated secondary school students. Designed as a comprehensive two-year curriculum, the diploma model is based on the pattern of no single country but incorporates the best elements of many.
The IB Diploma Programme leads to a qualification that is widely recognised by the world’s leading universities.
ISR decided to implement the IBDP because it ensures that students learn more than a collection of facts memorised and regurgitated under arduous exam conditions. IB assessments are constructed in a way to gauge students’ knowledge rather than their memory skills. In addition to this, IB students will also become familiar with the conventions of academic writing, learn to conduct independent research and write research papers in order to be fully equipped to cope with the rigors of higher education when the time arrives.
THE CURRICULUM
Students are required to choose one subject from the first five groups and then their sixth subject is either an arts subject or they can choose a second science or a second subject from the Individuals and Societies group.
The six subject groups are:
- Studies in Language and Literature
- Language Acquisition
- Individuals and Societies
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- The Arts
Students have to choose three subjects to study at Higher Level (HL). These are typically the subjects likely to be studied at college or university. They also study three subjects at Standard Level (SL). HL subjects require 240 hours of instruction and SL 150.
THE CORE
This is made up of the three required components, and it aims to broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.
- Theory of Knowledge, in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know.
- The Extended Essay, which is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.
- Creativity, Activity, Service, in which students develop an extracurricular portfolio and complete a project related to those three concepts.
WHY CHOOSE ISR?
The International School of Riga is the most centrally located international school in Riga. Our Secondary campus is nestled in the heart of Riga’s sprawling concrete jungle. ISR students tap into the pulse of the city through experiential learning, internships, and community service.
Our High School students are willing to take risks, think critically and reflect on their actions and knowledge. They are also encouraged to take the most rigorous courses in which they can be academically successful. Our goal is that, by the end of their high school lives, students are ready, academically and emotionally, for the next stage in their journey.
ISR is home to an outstanding group of international educators. Led by Ms. Emily Buckland, IBDP Coordinator, our Secondary teachers are not just experienced educators; they are Diploma Programme Examiners, Workshop Leaders, and Coaches. Many teachers are bilingual and all have strong communication skills. ISR’s ideal teacher is high-energy, experienced, and adaptive.
Like their students, ISR teachers are life-long learners. Professional development is organized to meet the emerging needs of our diverse urban community. Teachers work together to hone their skills in inquiry-based instruction, project-based learning, gamification strategies, and adaptation of new technologies to the classroom.
We provide comprehensive support for students who wish to access the Latvian State education system, guiding families through the requirements and helping students successfully meet national curriculum expectations alongside their international studies.
Students taking both English and Latvian are eligible for a bilingual diploma. Please read this article which outlines how this can be advantageous.
With intentionally small class sizes, students benefit from individualized attention, meaningful relationships with their teachers, and a learning environment where every voice is heard.
Interested?
Book an introductory session with our Admissions department:
admissions@isriga.lv
+371 25119337
