This International School Is Rolling Out 30+ New IB Initiatives: Here's What To Know
For many GESS families, school feels like a second home—so it's no surprise that when changes are on the horizon, they matter. Starting in the Academic Year 2025/26, GESS' IB track will witness thoughtfully designed initiatives, driven by months of feedback from parents, students, and educators. And if you're a parent looking for more tailored learning backed by high-quality teaching and learning, enhanced learner outcomes, and a school that believes in your child's wellbeing, the updates are worth a closer look.
New offerings including opportunities for physical activity, creativity & flexibility
Parents with children in primary school (ages 6 to 10) can expect a refreshed and well-rounded learning experience. Starting in Grade 1, students will now have the chance to pick up a new language–French, Spanish, or Mandarin–offered at an acquisition level to gently introduce foreign language learning. The outdoor education programme has also been revamped, with three dedicated hours each week for sports and swimming, ensuring kids stay active and engaged. On the creative side, drama will now be part of the curriculum, alongside existing art and music lessons.
For middle schoolers aged 11 to 13, the changes are designed to help students explore their interests while receiving personalised support. A new ENCORE electives programme introduces over 25 specialist courses across languages, arts, technology, and sports offered during school hours, so families don't have to juggle too many after-school commitments. The new FLEX programme provides more time for academic support, enrichment activities, clubs, and leadership opportunities.
Students will also benefit from smaller homeroom classes of just 12 to 14 students, allowing more tailored wellbeing and guidance. The school day will include more unstructured time to help reduce stress and boost creativity, with an added focus on restorative practices and social-emotional learning.
Growing beyond the classroom with innovative learning
At GESS, academic excellence doesn't equate to high pressure. The restructure puts student wellbeing at the centre—starting with a calmer, more balanced school day. Parents of high school students (aged 14 to 18) will be glad to know that more academic pathways and future planning resources are now in place. New subject offerings, such as environmental systems & societies and computer science, expand learning opportunities.
There's also a new Business and Sustainability Pathway that leads to the globally recognised IB Careers Programme qualification. Students will receive 33% more subject teaching hours, along with expanded access to mentorship, one-on-one tutoring, and counselling. The award-winning BeyondClassrooms initiative is also growing, introducing a new internship programme and industry speaker series, while university guidance and career prep efforts continue to scale up to help students transition smoothly into life beyond school.
At its heart, this restructuring is about recognising that every student is different—and creating a school experience that allows them to flourish in their own way. Click here to learn more about GESS' latest enhancements and developments!
GESS – International School, 2 Dairy Farm Lane, Singapore 677621, Tel: (+65) 6461 088, www.gess.edu.sg
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