- High School
Nature of Science engages students in authentic scientific exploration based on a topic of their interest and allows students to direct their own learning.
"Our High School is home to active, enthusiastic young people, who value learning both within the classroom and outside it. We are proud of our academic achievements, as well as our strong programs in the fine arts, service learning, China Studies, athletics and our extracurricular programs. In all we do, we are guided by our mission to Connect, Inspire, Challenge: Make a Difference."
The Western Academy of Beijing's High School International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) was designed to develop open-minded, principled, well-balanced, knowledgeable and inquiring learners.
Our international High School students are willing to take risks, think critically and reflect on their actions and knowledge. In High School, they are encouraged to take the most challenging courses in which they can be academically successful. As students progress through classes, they work with teachers to master content through rich engagement with complex ideas.
As they were throughout their years in Elementary and Middle School, High School students are encouraged to take action on their learning to make a difference in the world.
In all grade levels, a focus on the IB learner profile and the approaches to learning serves as a way for students to bring together the learning they do within each of their subject areas, while also recognizing our diverse and shared humanity and the responsibilities we hold in the guardianship of our planet.
We expect our students to use their critical minds and compassionate hearts as they develop into active citizens.
WAB High School's innovative new Capstone Program is designed to allow self-directed learning, honing specific skills related to a student's interests and career goals.
Working with a mentor, students build a personalized curriculum that allocates 20% of the school day to the pursuit of their passions. Learn more about our unique Capstone Program's inaugural year.
393 Students
Through the IB Middle Years Programme, as well as the IB Diploma Programme, we hope that students see their learning as relevant and meaningful in a larger diverse world.
All Grade 9 and 10 students study eight courses each year as part of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. In Grade 10, students complete the MYP Personal Project outside of class time, which exposes them early on to independent research and critical reflection in an area of personal passion and interest.
In Grades 11 and 12, students can participate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The full IB Diploma is offered to all WAB students. Students in the IB Diploma Programme choose from six subject groups that include a range of courses, with three at higher level and three at standard level. In addition, students must take the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, complete an extended essay, and fulfill Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) commitments outside of class time.
Guided by our definition of learning and the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes, our High School curriculum further develops student skills and expertise across a broad range of subjects taught by specialist teachers. You can browse our curriculum pages and find out more about these subjects.
WAB's international High School students gain access and matriculate at many of the world’s most competitive institutions each year, including several Ivy League schools and 38 of the Times Higher Education World Top 50 universities. Counselors at WAB work with students to find their “best fit” for education beyond High School.
WAB 2024-25 High School Profile
WAB is an Apple Distinguished School and runs a successful 1:1 laptop program. Our High School students have access to a wide range of WAB online services including email, blogs, media server, Managebac, PowerSchool and Moodle, which is our online Learning Management System. WAB offers innovative learning opportunities during and outside of class time. Technological and digital resources and tools are always available for student use.
WAB believes in balancing the educational needs of students with their social, physical and emotional development. Students are encouraged to pursue individual interests through various activities, clubs and experiences related to sports, service, leadership, social advocacy, art, academics, culture and adventure. WAB’s memberships to several associations offer opportunities for collaboration and competition among international school students from around the region.
Students at WAB can also opt for the WAB High School Diploma, which combines International Baccalaureate Certificate courses, WAB High School courses, and other special projects and experiences. Students obtaining the WAB High School Diploma go on to gain acceptance at top universities and colleges around the world. Students may combine internships, passion projects, or independent learning in their studies.
Others include: Gap Year and National Service