News release

Nova Scotia IB Students are Strong Performers on World Stage

Education (July 1999 - March 2013)

Some hard-working young Nova Scotians are once again among the top academic performers in the world.

Last year, Nova Scotia's International Baccalaureate (IB) students outperformed IB graduates worldwide in almost every subject. Their overall pass rate was 10 per cent higher than IB students around the world.

"I achieved my goals with the support of my teachers and I really value the education I earned," said recent graduate Emma Archibald. "It's wonderful to have access to this program because it opens so many opportunities."

Ms. Archibald graduated from Charles P. Allen High School in Bedford and won a full scholarship to attend St. Andrews University in Scotland.

"We are very proud of the achievement of our IB students across the province," said Education Minister Ramona Jennex. "Our students and teachers are competitive on an international level, which shows how we are putting kids and learning first in Nova Scotia."

Nova Scotia IB graduates continue to receive excellent recognition from universities in Canada and abroad. Many get scholarships and bursaries, making their higher education more affordable. The 2012 graduates received almost $4 million in scholarships and bursaries.

"Nova Scotia is one of just two provinces offering IB free to any student willing to take on the challenge," said Ms. Jennex. "This gives more students the opportunity to develop independent study and problem-solving skills, as well as a work ethic that employers are looking for."

Horton High School in Wolfville launched IB this year, ensuring students in every region of the province now have access to this program that helps prepare them for good jobs and citizenship.