Mercedes College is one of more than 5,000 International Baccalaureate (IB) World Schools, making us a part of a global community developing resilient, and self-motivated students.

The structure of the International Baccalaureate (IB) focuses on teaching students how to build the tools they need to be curious, independent thinkers. IB Graduates have critical thinking skills and the drive and curiosity to succeed anywhere in the world.

No other learning framework prepares students more comprehensively for life in an increasingly intercultural world, nor more effectively opens their minds to lifelong independent learning.

We are the only Catholic school in South Australia offering the IB curriculum from Reception to Year 12, with Seniors offered the option of studying the IB Diploma or South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) for their final two years.

Each IB Programme uses cross-disciplinary learning, equipping our students with knowledge based in real world, multicultural, and global contexts, helping them apply to their skills to varied circumstances as they grow.

  • Primary Years Programme | Reception to Year 5
  • Middle Years Programme | Year 6 to Year 10
  • Diploma Programme (or SACE) | Year 11 and Year 12

When combined with the national curriculum, our students are set up for a success in whichever field they choose.

Mercedes College children building confidence and physical skills through safe outdoor play

We nurture academic excellence and personal growth, through our IB Programmes across our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. These rigorous programmes foster critical thinking, inquiry and problem-solving skills, preparing students to navigate a rapidly evolving world.

IB Learner Profile

There are 10 attributes of an IB Learner, providing an overarching understanding of the IB’s intent.

Inquirers

We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life.

Open-minded

We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.

Knowledgeable

We develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines. We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.

Caring

We show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.

Thinkers

We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyse and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

Risk-takers

We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.

Communicators

We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways. We collaborate effectively, listening carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups.

Balanced

We understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives intellectual, physical, and emotional to achieve well-being for ourselves and others. We recognize our interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live.

Principled

We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

Reflective

We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.