Academic Pathways: Q&A Session
Empowering every student through personalised education.
Mr. Ladislav Burkovic Head of Academics
VIS ACADEMIC PRINCIPLES
Learning because I want to and see value Creates their own WHY and applies learning to real-life contexts
Actively creating, making, and connecting learning to real life.
Driven by purpose, Empowered by Practice: Students Owning Their Why and Living Their Learning
UNDERSTANDING OUR STUDENTS
THE FOUNDATION FOR ACADEMIC PATHWAYS
At the start of each academic year, we conduct baseline testing to understand our students’ academic profiles. This helps us tailor our support and ensure every student can thrive within their chosen pathway."
Academic PATHWAYS FOR YEARS 7–13:
PERSONALISED FOR STUDENT SUCCESS
Our inclusive academic structure supports every student, guiding them from middle years through to graduation in a way that aligns with their unique strengths, aspirations, and needs.
MYP (Years 7–11)
» Programme Focus: Inquiry-based, skill-building, interdisciplinary learning
» Student Fit: All students – foundational development phase
» For students who:
» Require flexibility or differentiation
Common pathway for all students before specialisation in Years 12–13
» For students who:
» Are academically driven
» Thrive under structured challenge and workload
» Outcome: IB Diploma,
Challenging yet supported academic excellence
» May have learning support needs or different post-secondary goals
» Outcome: Cognia-accredited HSDP
Accessible and adaptable route to graduation and beyond
IB Diploma Programme (Years 12–13)
High School Diploma Pathway (Years 12–13)
THE MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMME (MYP)
The MYP Programme – Years 7 to 11
An interdisciplinary approach that connects classroom learning to real-world understanding designed to support and challenge all learners.
Language
MYP ASSESSMENT – LEARNING WITH
PURPOSE
MYP assessment focuses on real-life application and growth, using a clear and supportive framework that values every student’s progress.
Each subject is assessed using 4 criteria (each worth 8 points):
Knowledge & Understanding Investigating or Problem Solving
Communicating Applying or Reflecting
Total: 32 points per subject
Converted to Final Grade out of 7
Examples of Excellence:
Turning Geometry into Architecture
Angle of the roof: 45°
Floor plan uses parallel and perpendicular lines
Applied trigonometry in elevation views
THE PERSONAL PROJECT – EMPOWERING
STUDENT VOICE
The Personal Project allows students to explore their passions and apply what they’ve learned in meaningful, real-world ways.
Completed in Year 11 (MYP 5)
A student-led inquiry based on a personal interest or passion
Encourages skills in research, planning, creativity, problem-solving
Builds independence preparing students for the demands of DP or HSDP
Students connect classroom learning to the world beyond school solving real problems, creating real products, or initiating change in their community.
Project Type
Created an app for school schedule
Designed eco-friendly fashion
Researched healthy eating habits
Started a school podcast
Technology + student needs
Design + sustainability
Science + lifestyle awareness
Communication + media production
The Personal Project taught me how to take an idea and make it real.
TWO DISTINCT PATHWAYS –
ONE SHARED GOAL: STUDENT SUCCESS
SENIOR YEARS PATHWAYS – IBDP VS. HSDP
Both IBDP and HSDP offer rigorous, internationally recognized learning — designed to meet the diverse strengths, goals, and learning profiles of our students.
Feature IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Style International, academically rigorous
Subjects 6 total: 3 HL + 3 SL
Core Requirements Theory of Knowledge (TOK), CAS, Extended Essay (EE)
High School Diploma Pathway (HSDP)
American-style, flexible and inclusive
Minimum 4 (avg. 5): 2 Core + 2+ Electives
Service Learning component
Extended Essay 4,500-word academic research essay Not required
Grading Grade out of 7 per subject, max score: 45
Core Subjects All 6 include Core by structure
Electives Not required
GPA system (0.0 – 4.0), US standard
Must include Language & Literature, Language Acquisition, Mathematics
Choose from: Sciences, Individuals & Societies, Arts
Accreditation International Baccalaureate (IB) Cognia (US-accredited)
Student Fit For students ready for academic intensity and structure For students needing flexibility, support, or differentiated learning
We guide each student and family in choosing the pathway that best fits their strengths, interests, and future plans.
EXTERNAL VALIDATION OF OUR ACADEMIC
EXCELLENCE
RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE – 2024–25 HIGHLIGHTS
Three external visits confirmed the quality, inclusivity, and strength of our academic programmes.
Cognia Highlights: MYP Highlights:
IEQ Score: above Cognia network average
Inclusive, student-centered culture
Strong leadership and governance
Effective digital learning tools
IB-aligned mission and curriculum
Strong assessment practices
Language and personal project support
Collaborative staff planning
VIS academic pathways are not only inclusive — they are internationally recognised for excellence.
Mr. Ladislav Burkovic Head of Academics
Academic Pathways: Q&A Session
Empowering every student through personalised education.