International Baccalaureate (IB) &
Accelerated Learning Program (ALP)

Applications are now CLOSED for the 2024-2025 School Year 

The Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP)

The Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) is a two-year prepatory programme for grades 9 and 10 students to meet the challenges of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The overarching purposes of the ALP are: 

As such, students enrolled in the ALP will receive a time-table which will prepare them for the demands, both academically and personally, of the DP. It will also allow for successful timetabling of DP courses which will also meet graduation requirements of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

In grades 9 and 10 students are clustered together in academic classes (electives and phys ed are open sections) of like minded students who intend on pursuing the IB pathway. While they are still being evaluated by Ontario curriculum standards, they are introduced to IB vocabulary, the IB learned profile, and the look and feel of their classes is generally more enriched. Students also receive peer mentorship from senior IB students and have an opportunity to get involved in various clubs, groups and sports teams they tend to stay a part of throughout their years in high school.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)

IB is a classical approach to education that asks students to learn and experience a breadth of courses across all six subject groups for the duration of their high school years. In grades 11 and 12 students study English literature, Language Acquisition (French), Sciences, Math, History and Theory of Knowledge. More specifically, students spend time investigating how all these subjects are interconnected. The content is challenging in that it requires students to be interpreters of information rather than receptors of it. Students are much more involved in process than product, and use their critical and creative thinking skills to push discussion and inquiry.

At the core of the IB philosophy is our commitment to developing a balanced student through the completion of their Extended Essay and CAS (Creative, Action and Service involvement). IB recognizes there is as much, if not more, to learn outside of the classroom as in it. Students learn to appreciate how research, creative endeavours, whole body wellness, and philanthropic initiatives enhance their lives, and the lives of others.

For more information about our ALP & IB programs, please contact:

Mrs. Jennifer Bright,

International Baccalaureate Coordinator
Burlington Central High School
905-634-7768 ext. 245
brightj@hdsb.ca