Navigating the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) can be daunting — not only for students, but for their parents too. With a dense curriculum, multiple assessments, and a host of acronyms, many parents feel unsure how best to support their child through this academically intense journey.
As an IBDP graduate myself, I’d like to share five meaningful ways my own parents helped me stay grounded and succeed — and how you can do the same for your child.
1. Familiarise Yourself with the IBDP and Its Terminology
When your child mentions their EE (Extended Essay) or an IA (Internal Assessment), the last thing they want to do is stop and explain what it means. Having to decode acronyms for a well-meaning parent can quickly add to their stress levels.
Instead, take some time to learn the basics of the IBDP — perhaps by browsing your child’s school handbook or visiting the official IB website. Understanding the structure and expectations of the course will allow you to engage in more constructive conversations, without taking up their valuable revision time.
2. Give Them Room to Breathe
Not all students want help every step of the way. While some might regularly seek feedback, others prefer to work independently. If your child leans towards the latter, respect their autonomy and let them lead the way.
Offering support doesn’t always mean hovering. Creating a warm, understanding home environment — and reassuring them you’re available if needed — can be far more effective than constantly checking in.
3. Lend an Ear When They Need to Vent
Sometimes, all an overwhelmed student needs is to let off steam. The IBDP is demanding, and it’s perfectly normal for emotions to run high from time to time.
If your child seems frustrated, simply ask: “Do you want to talk about it?” Letting them speak freely, without pressure to find a solution, can provide relief and help them regain focus. Just knowing you’re listening can make a world of difference.
4. Acknowledge the Challenge of the IBDP
The IBDP is one of the most academically rigorous pre-university programmes in the world. As one Brown University admissions officer put it: “I don’t think there is anyone who doesn’t respect the IB.”
It’s important to recognise that every student is different. Avoid fixating on the “perfect” 45/45 score. Instead, set expectations based on your child’s individual strengths and progress. If they struggle with a task, work through it together. Focus on the lesson, not the mark — and always celebrate the wins, no matter how small.
5. Know How Haut-Lac Supports Its Students
Success isn’t a straight line — and every student needs a helping hand at times. At Haut-Lac, dedicated staff are always on hand to support students academically and emotionally.
The IBDP coordinator keeps regular contact with students, helping them stay on top of coursework and deadlines. Support could include:
Booster sessions for tricky subjects
Catch-up classes on Wednesday afternoons
Tailored support from the Individual Needs team
And if a student’s challenge is more personal than academic, they can easily reach out to the school counsellor, who’s available in person, via phone, or by email.
So whatever your child is facing — don’t hesitate to seek support. At Haut-Lac, they’re never alone in their IB journey.
