Nurturing Values, Fostering Global Leaders: Our IB Commitment

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Stonyhurst is renowned for its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, globally aware individuals. However, what often goes unnoticed is the synergy between the IB program and the values upheld by the Jesuit education tradition. What’s special and unique about Stonyhurst is the way our pupils learn, live and grow through the Jesuit Profile, guiding not only what they learn but also who they become as individuals. We are proud to be the only Catholic IB school in the North of the UK. Both philosophies share a deep-rooted commitment to holistic development, social responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge for the greater good. This has a great affinity with Stonyhurst's approach to developing the whole individual and creating principled leaders for the future with an international mindset. 

The IB was set up to prepare pupils to be the world’s top students. It develops individuals academically, intellectually and as a whole person. It also endeavours to develop characteristics which will prepare young people for later life. This profile has great synergy with Stonyhurst’s Jesuit mission of learning, aligning seamlessly with the IB programme's mission to develop internationally-minded individuals who contribute to creating a better, more peaceful world. 

Wise: The first value emphasises the importance of academic excellence, encouraging pupils to strive for their personal best. In the IB programme, this resonates with the rigorous academic standards, the encouragement of critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge in various subject areas. 

Learned: The Jesuit value of being open to growth closely aligns with the IB Learner Profile attribute of being open-minded. Both philosophies encourage pupils to learn to be receptive to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives, fostering an environment where diversity and inclusivity thrive. 

Discerning: Both the IB programme and Jesuit tradition are deeply rooted in social justice. IB pupils are encouraged to take action to address social and environmental issues, aligning perfectly with the Jesuit commitment to working for the greater good of society. 

Solidarity: Solidarity is a hallmark of Jesuit education, emphasising the importance of standing with and supporting those in need. This value mirrors the IB's focus on intercultural understanding and global mindedness, where pupils learn to empathise with and support people from diverse backgrounds. 

Compassionate: Service is not just a box to check but a way of life in both the Jesuit and IB traditions. IB pupils undertake meaningful service projects that make a positive impact on their communities, reflecting the Jesuit call to serve those in need. 

Attentive: Being attentive is a crucial aspect of both the Jesuit and IB experiences. It encourages pupils to think critically about their actions, their impact on the world, and how they can continually improve and grow as individuals. In the IB programme, Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course that encourages young people to question assumptions, think critically, and reflect on the nature of knowledge. 

Grateful: Gratitude is an often-overlooked value but plays a vital role in both traditions. Expressing gratitude for one's education, opportunities, and the people who support one's journey is a common theme in Jesuit education at Stonyhurst and is equally relevant in the IB program. 

The Jesuit Profile values lived by Stonyhurst’s community, and the International Baccalaureate programme are two educational philosophies that harmoniously align in their commitment to fostering intellectually competent, socially responsible, and globally aware individuals. Both philosophies recognise the importance of education to empower pupils to create positive change in the world, and by embracing these values, students can truly become "Men and Women for Others" in the spirit of Jesuit education, while also embodying the IB Learner Profile attributes. 

Stonyhurst’s Headmaster, Mr John Browne says: ‘’The pupils in our care are given the individual attention, resources and space in which to grow intellectually, spiritually and emotionally. Stonyhurst pupils are encouraged to involve themselves fully in the opportunities offered to them. Living in a supportive and diverse community, they are helped to develop those qualities of character that will distinguish them in later life as men and women for others. A Jesuit education is a foundation for such a life, an education that nurtures individuality and encourages generosity.’’  

Find out more: https://www.stonyhurst.ac.uk/stonyhurst-sixth-form