The International Baccalaureate (IB) Career-related Programme (IBCP) is a distinctive educational framework designed for students eager to pursue career-related learning. Open to both new students within Taft’s attendance boundaries and current Taft students not enrolled in the IB Diploma Programme, the IBCP offers a specialized pathway to future success.
The IBCP embraces the IB’s overarching vision and pedagogical principles, tailoring them into a unique program suited for students aiming to connect their education with the world of work. This program empowers students to become effective contributors in an evolving professional landscape by encouraging them to:
- Explore Diverse Perspectives: Consider varied viewpoints, fostering open-mindedness and global awareness.
- Engage in Meaningful Learning: Participate in educational experiences that contribute positively to themselves and their communities.
- Develop a Versatile Skill Set: Cultivate a blend of robust academic knowledge and practical, career-ready competencies.
- Enhance Critical and Creative Thinking: Sharpen analytical and innovative thinking skills essential in today’s dynamic and interconnected global workplace.
- Communicate Effectively: Articulate ideas clearly and persuasively in various professional contexts.
- Foster Independence and Collaboration: Develop the capacity to work autonomously and productively within team environments.
- Build Self-Confidence and Resilience: Become adaptable, self-assured individuals ready to navigate challenges and embrace change.
Alt text: Diagram illustrating the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) framework, showcasing the interconnectedness of Diploma Programme courses, Career-related Studies, and the IBCP core components for a holistic educational experience.
Decoding the IBCP Framework
Commencing in the 11th grade, the IBCP framework (with prerequisite coursework typically completed in the 9th and 10th grades) allows students to concentrate on a specific career-related field. This structured program is built upon three core elements:
- Diploma Programme (DP) Courses: Students undertake at least two IB Diploma Programme courses, including IB English and one additional IB DP elective in their 11th and 12th-grade years, providing a strong academic foundation.
- Career-related Studies (CTE): The program incorporates focused Career and Technical Education (CTE) studies, offering practical, hands-on learning directly relevant to various career paths.
- The IBCP Core: A dedicated ‘Personal and Professional Skills’ core class integrates crucial elements such as Service Learning, Language Development, and the Reflective Project. This core is fundamental in synthesizing the DP courses and career-related studies, fostering personal growth and professional readiness.
CTE Course Offerings at Taft High School
Taft High School provides a range of engaging CTE career-related courses, including:
- Web Design: Learn the principles of web development and digital design.
- Entrepreneurship: Develop the skills and mindset to launch and manage your own ventures.
- Digital Media (3-year strand): Explore the diverse aspects of digital content creation and media production.
- Chicago Police and Firefighter’s Training Academy: For students interested in public service careers in law enforcement and firefighting.
Alt text: Image depicting students participating in a training exercise at the Chicago Police and Firefighter’s Training Academy, showcasing practical career-related learning in public safety.
Expanding Horizons: Additional Opportunities
Beyond CTE courses, IBCP students can further enrich their learning experience through additional options such as:
- NJROTC: Develop leadership skills and explore naval science.
- Drama and Theater Production: Cultivate creativity, performance skills, and teamwork through theatrical arts.
- Strength & Conditioning: Focus on physical fitness, health, and athletic development.
- Journalism (Newspaper or Yearbook): Gain hands-on experience in reporting, writing, and media production.
- Engineering: Explore engineering principles, design, and problem-solving.
- Teacher Education: Gain insights into the teaching profession and educational practices.
IB Diploma Programme Course Integration
All students in the Ib Career Programme will engage in IB Language and Literature studies, alongside at least one additional IBDP course, ensuring a rigorous academic component within their career-focused education.
For detailed descriptions of CTE courses, please CLICK HERE.
William Howard Taft High School proudly holds the status of an IB World School, authorized to offer both the IB Diploma Programme and the IB Career-related Programme. IB World Schools share a unified commitment to delivering high-caliber, challenging, international education, which we believe is crucial for equipping our students for future success in a globalized world.
Authorization from the IB Organization is mandatory for schools to offer any of the IB’s programs: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).
For more comprehensive information about the International Baccalaureate Organization and its programmes, please visit http://www.ibo.org.
