Discover Brilliance: Marymount's Middle Years Programme

The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)

Inspiring Independent Thinkers and Lifelong Learners

What is the MYP?

The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) is a five-year educational framework for students aged 11 to 16 (Grades 6-10).  It provides a dynamic and challenging curriculum that encourages students to make meaningful connections between their studies and the real world.  supporting them in becoming confident, reflective, and globally-minded individuals.  It nurtures creativity, critical thinking and collaboration – essential skills for success in further and higher education and life beyond the classroom.

A Framework for Holistic Learning

The MYP is not just about academic knowledge—it’s about developing the whole child. Students explore eight subject groups, ensuring a balanced and broad education:

  1. Language and Literature

  2. Language Acquisition (Modern Foreign Languages)

  3. Individuals and Societies

  4. Sciences

  5. Mathematics

  6. Arts

  7. Physical and Health Education

  8. Design

In addition, the MYP Personal Project, completed in the final year, allows students to explore a topic of personal interest through independent research and inquiry—building valuable skills in organisation, time management, and self-reflection.

Core Elements of the MYP

  • Concept-Based Learning: Encourages students to understand big ideas that transcend subject boundaries.

  • Global Contexts: Learning is grounded in real-world issues and global themes, helping students develop international mindedness.

  • Approaches to Learning (ATL): Emphasises skills such as communication, self-management, and research, supporting students in becoming effective, independent learners.

  • Service as Action: Students engage in meaningful community service, developing empathy and a sense of social responsibility.

Why Choose the MYP?

  • Encourages intellectual curiosity and a love for learning

  • Prepares students effectively for the demands of the IB Diploma Programme and other post-16 pathways

  • Develops students who are critical thinkers, communicators, and collaborators

  • Builds global awareness and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world

  • Recognised by leading schools and educational systems worldwide

A Strong Foundation for the Future

Our MYP students emerge as adaptable, resilient learners with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a complex and fast-changing world. Whether they continue into the IB Diploma Programme or pursue other academic paths, they do so with confidence, purpose, and a well-rounded perspective.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the IB MYP and GCSE?

MYP vs. GCSE: Key Differences at a Glance

Aspect IB MYP GCSE
Age Range 11–16 (Years 7–11) 14–16 (Years 10–11)
Subjects Studied Broad and balanced (8 subject groups) 8–10 selected subjects
Assessment Ongoing, classroom-based, criterion-referenced Primarily final exams, externally assessed
Grading Scale 1 to 7 1 to 9
Global Focus Strong emphasis on international-mindedness Some global content
Skill Development Critical thinking, reflection, collaboration Subject-specific mastery


How is the MYP assessed?

How the MYP is Assessed

  • Students are assessed internally by their teachers using clear, internationally consistent IB criteria.

  • Each subject includes four assessment areas (such as knowledge, skills, reflection, and communication), and students receive a score from 1 to 8 for each.

  • These scores are combined and converted into a final subject grade out of 7, with 7 being the highest.

MYP Final Grade Descriptions:

Grade Description
7 Frequently innovative, comprehensive understanding and expert thinking
6 High-quality and occasionally innovative work; often independent
5 Generally high quality: secure understanding and some sophistication
4 Good quality; basic understanding and thinking, flexible with support
3 Acceptable quality, some understanding and emerging critical thinking
2 Limited quality with major gaps in understanding and skill use
1 Very limited quality and understanding lacks critical thinking


How do MYP grades compare to GCSE grades?

Comparing MYP and GCSE Grading

Though structured differently, the table below shows how MYP achievement levels roughly align with GCSE grades:

MYP Grade Approx. GCSE Equivalent
7 Grade 9 / High 8
6 Grade 7–8
5 Grade 6
4 Grade 5
3 Grade 4
2 Grade 2&3
1 Grade 1

Note: This grade comparison is done by ECCTIS – independent from the IB, and the comparison is based on the grade descriptors/requirements.


What is the Personal Project?

What is the Personal Project, and why does it matter?

In the final year of the MYP, students complete a Personal Project- a significant, student-led research and creation task.  This project demonstrates initiative, academic curiosity and the ability to manage a long-term assignment – qualities that align closely with university expectations and independent study.


Do universities value the MYP?

Universities are only likely to look at MYP grades for subjects such as English, Maths and Science for certain degrees such as law or medicine when they will typically ask for “GCSE or equivalent passes”

While universities do not use MYP grades in admissions decisions, they highly value the skills, mindset and academic maturity that the  MYP develops in students.

What skills does the MYP develop that are relevant for university

The MYP helps students grow into independent, globally aware learners by focusing on

  • Critical thinking and analysis

  • Independent research and inquiry
  • Time management and organisation

  • Communication and reflection

  • Interdisciplinary understanding

These skills are exactly what top universities are looking for in successful applicants.

 



Where next?