The British School in Tokyo (BST) is delighted to announce the successful launch of its International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), which officially began in August 2025. The introduction of the programme marks an exciting new chapter in the school’s history and has been met with tremendous enthusiasm from students, staff, and families alike.
Following official authorisation as an IB World School earlier this year, BST welcomed its first cohort of Year 12 students into the IBDP this term. The programme has started with great energy, with students already embracing its breadth and rigour, and teachers drawing on their specialist IB training and experience to deliver a dynamic and engaging curriculum.
The IBDP is one of the world’s most respected pre-university qualifications, renowned for its focus on intellectual curiosity, research, and global-mindedness. Through its unique combination of academic study and core elements - Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), and the Extended Essay - BST students are developing the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in higher education and beyond.
BST Principal, Mr Ian Clayton, shared his reflections on this milestone:
“It has been inspiring to see our first IBDP cohort begin their journey with enthusiasm and commitment. The programme has already brought fresh opportunities to our classrooms and a renewed sense of excitement about learning. We are confident that the IBDP will not only challenge our students academically but also empower them to grow as principled, reflective, and globally minded young people.”
BST’s decision to adopt the IBDP reflects its commitment to providing a world-class education that responds to the needs of its internationally diverse student body. While the school’s final A Level cohort will graduate in 2026, and we are extremely proud of them, the IBDP is now firmly embedded as the pathway for senior students, complementing the strong foundations built through (I)GCSEs in Year 11.
As the first IBDP classes take shape, the atmosphere across the school is one of excitement and pride. Students are already engaging deeply with their subjects, exploring new ideas, and beginning to plan projects that will make a positive contribution both within BST and in the wider community.
This successful start underscores BST’s vision to nurture each student’s unique potential and prepare them to make a meaningful impact on the world.