The next steps
Welcome to the DP
The Diploma Programme builds on the MYP and is a challenging but exciting pre-university course that prepares students for the challenges and skills they will need at university and work-life. Leading universities around the globe greatly value the DP for its holistic approach.
Developing the whole person and life-long learners is at the heart of the programme. It does so through the traditional academic subjects and by fostering the Approaches to Learning Skills (aka 21st Century Skills), developing conceptual understanding, high order thinking skills and metacognition.
At ISS, the student is greeted with passioned, very experienced and motivated staff (many are IB examiners and some are IB workshop leaders) and astonishing and flexible learning spaces full of vibrant colours that will spark students’ senses and catalyse motivation.
Why choose us?
Why choose the Diploma Programme
According to a study by researchers at Inflexion (formerly The Education Policy Improvement Center), DP students are better able than their peers to cope with demanding workloads, manage their time, and meet the expectations placed on them, and this is mainly due to the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills which are addressed in all DP teaching and learning.
Taking the Diploma Programme develops students who:
- Have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge;
- Flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically;
- Study at least two languages;
- Excel in traditional academic subjects;
- Explore the nature of knowledge through the programme’s unique Theory of Knowledge course;
- Become internationally-minded, understanding and respectful of others’ cultural beliefs and multiple perspectives and who promote responsible action within and beyond their community, while also being actively responsible for their own learning.
The outcomes
The IB Learner Profile
The IB Learner Profile is a cornerstone of the International Baccalaureate (IB) educational philosophy, aiming to develop well-rounded individuals who embody the values of the IB Framework and Community. This profile outlines ten key attributes that IB learners strive to cultivate:
“We are not just focused on raising grades; we are dedicated to raising happy, well-rounded individuals.”
The Diploma Programme is more than an academic journey—it’s a transformative experience that shapes globally-minded, resilient, and lifelong learners. They are immersed in a culturally diverse ecosystem with more than 50 nationalities, punctuated by a sharing spirit, academic rigour, inclusion and mutual respect.
Through a challenging but exciting pre-university course, the IB DP prepares students for the challenges and skills they will need at university and in work life.
With such a rich environment and well-rounded preparation, students who have completed the programme often find University a “walk in the park”. They leave ISS not only prepared for university but with the confidence to approach future challenges with forethought and determination.
– David Cyrne Ferreira, Coordinator of Diploma Programme (DP) in Oeiras Valley
Why choose us?
The Core Elements
The Diploma Programme core strengthens students’ academic and personal development through critical thinking, self-driven research, and meaningful community engagement.
These elements encourage students to apply their knowledge thoughtfully, develop resilience, and build a sense of responsibility, equipping them with essential skills for lifelong learning and success beyond the classroom.
Our Curriculum
Subjects Groups offered at ISS
Diploma Programme students must choose one course from each one of the six subject groups delivering deep knowledge and understanding in language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and arts.
Group 1
Language & Literature
Group 2
Language Acquisition
Group 3
Individuals & Societies
Group 4
Sciences
Group 5
Mathematics
Group 6
Others
Group 1
Language & Literature
Group 2
Language Acquisition
Group 3
Individuals & Societies
Group 4
Sciences
Group 5
Mathematics
Group 6
The Arts
“Through sharing and understanding, our DP students grow into confident, thoughtful, and open-minded individuals.”
Our mission is to balance academic excellence of the DP students with personal growth, ensuring that students thrive both academically and emotionally.
The DP equips students with essential skills for university and life beyond, such as research, communication, and critical thinking. We tailor our program to meet each student’s individual goals in small groups, fostering intellectual independence and building their emotional resilience, so necessary in this final stage of school. With strong collaboration between teachers, students, and parents, we ensure that every student not only achieves their full potential but also enjoys these transformative two years.
We believe that through sharing and understanding, our DP students grow into confident, thoughtful, and open-minded individuals.
– Olga Put, Coordinator of Diploma Programme (DP) in Madeira
