Design
With the introduction of the Middle Years Programme came the introduction of Design as the newest subject to be offered at HBIS. The students have embraced the subject wholeheartedly and have produced some extraordinary work for their first projects. Working in groups to help break the ice of a new subject the MYP 1s have constructed Baby Mobiles; I think many have learned how small...Read More
ESKOM Science Expo 2018
The 19th August found the HBIS Science department bursting with pride as 17 of our budding young scientists walked to the podium to receive their well-deserved medals during the prize giving of the ESKOM Science Expo 2018. Twenty three students were chosen to represent the school at this prestigious event and they all did us proud with well over half of the students receiving awards...Read More
International mindedness Part 3 – Being a global citizen
The context a Hout Bay International School student is given through the International Baccalaureate within their own local community, and as part of a larger global network allows them better perspective on their role in an international space. They are a global citizen. Better prepared for the 21st century global challenges These days, tertiary education confronts students with global...Read More
International mindedness Part 2 – Understanding ourselves to connect with others
Understanding ourselves to connect with others “Ciao” and “Grazie” are the words spoken by a South African student hopping out of his lift club parent’s car on an Autumn morning at Hout Bay International School’s stop and drop. This sentiment is an unremarkable component of an HBIS student’s day to day. Students are exposed to ways of life different from their own on an ongoing basis through...Read More
International mindedness Part 1 – Respect and understanding for other perspectives, cultures and languages
Respect and understanding for other perspectives, cultures and languages By looking inward and finding their place locally, students are better able to look outward and find their role and influence within a broader, global community. Hout Bay International School places value in the importance of understanding international mindedness – a cornerstone of the International Baccalaureate...Read More
Learning dynamics: The IB curricula aren’t stagnant
The IB curricula aren’t stagnant. When a teacher receives a student group for the first time, it is necessary to assess the various skill levels and learning dynamics of the group. Teachers are given the opportunity to be dynamic in order to grow and advance the learning process, and add to their curriculum year on year. No two children absorb information in the same manner. Teaching...Read More
Student assessment – A two-way street
One of the IB Learner Profile traits is Reflection. But this doesn’t only apply to the students. Naturally, teaching staff need to constantly reflect on their students for assessment – their ability in completing a task; their skills; how well they engaged with the task or interacted with fellow group members; their overall understanding and more. This observation process is integral for...Read More
How Service creates open-mindedness in the IB
Different from a Service portfolio at other schools, at HBIS Service is part of a student’s curriculum. It is more than simply taking part in activities to fulfill required hours. In the Diploma Programme, Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS) is a large component of a students pass mark over their two final years. In PYP 6, Action is a part of their final exhibition project. The...Read More
How the International Baccalaureate is applied at HBIS
Hout Bay International School currently offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP) ages 3 – 12, and the Diploma Programme (DP) ages 16 – 19 of the International Baccalaureate (IB). While the school structure is comparable to other South African Primary and High Schools, a marked difference can be found in the curricula of the IB. Read More