The Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP)

The Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) is a two-year programme designed to meet the challenges of the IBDP. The overarching purposes of the ALP are:

1. to prepare students for the academic rigour of the DP

2. to help students hone their inter-personal skills required for success in the DP.

As such, students enrolled in the ALP will receive a time-table which will prepare them for the demands, both academically and personally, of the DP. It will also allow for successful timetabling of DP courses which will also meet graduation requirements of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma.


Some Frequently Asked Questions…


Who might be interested in the ALP and the IBDP?

Successful ALP students:

· are naturally curious
· demonstrate integrity, honesty, fairness
· enjoy learning
· are caring, empathetic, and compassionate
· think critically and creatively
· are open-minded, well-balanced and reflective individuals
· express ideas and information confidently
· demonstrate consistent and perseverant work habits
· explore second languages
· take risks

What are the advantages of graduating with an IB Diploma?

IB World Schools must undergo a rigorous authorization process in order to offer an IB programme. Its curriculum is recognized all over the world and IB standards and focus is universal across all IB World schools. As a result, an IB Diploma graduate often receives a higher level of university acceptance, not to mention greater scholarship potential. An IB Diploma holder may also receive credit for courses in first-year university. Please consult each university regarding its specific IB admissions policies and advanced credit award policies. More information on university recognition of the IB Diploma Programme can be found at http://www.ibo.org/diploma/recognition/index.cfm.

The curriculum and pedagogy of the IBDO focus on international perspectives of learning and teaching, while insisting that students fully explore their home culture and language. Therefore, students will learn to live in ‘global’ society because of the emphasis on the international aspect of the programme.

IB students will learn to hone their time-management skills, application skills, critical-thinking, organizational skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, and research skills while in the programme. Moreover, the core elements of the Diploma programme encourages students to take on an active role in their community while participating in creative and service-oriented activities, while reflecting on a personal and academic level.


What is the application process for the ALP?

The ALP requires an interested student to:

· Complete the standard WOSS option sheet, selecting previously identified courses for Gr. 9 and 10

· Complete an ALP application package, available from the South Student Services Office or online at http://www.wossweb.com/ib.html

**Note that acceptance into the ALP does not guarantee acceptance into the DP. Student performance will be monitored throughout enrolment ALP, and recommendations into the DP will be made at the end of the ALP.


Does my student qualify for busing to White Oaks?

Please be advised that only students who are within the boundaries of White Oaks Secondary
School, and who meet the board requirements for busing, will be given board- sponsored
transportation. All other students will need to arrange their own transportation to and from White
Oaks. We do not get involved with second-party transportation issues.

Therefore, if you reside outside the transportation boundaries, you can still be accepted into the
ALP or IB program here, but you will need to provide your own transportation.


Is there an application process for the IBDP?

During their ALP years, students will be monitored on their academic skills, participation in the school community, and their learning skills. At the end of the ALP, if successful, students will then be recommended to proceed enrolment in the DP.

If you are currently in Grade 9, you may still apply to be in the ALP for your Grade 10 year. Complete an ALP application package, available from the South Student Services Office or online at http://www.wossweb.com/ib.html


I’m only interested in taking some subjects in the Diploma Programme. Is that possible?

We encourage all students to take the full Diploma Programme since it allows students to develop skills in all areas instead of focusing on just one or a few. It also allows students to appreciate the concurrency of learning by making connections between IB courses.


For more information, please contact:

Maureen Paci
IB Coordinator
pacim@hdsb.ca
905-845-5200 ext. 233