Over the past several weeks, we have engaged in thoughtful conversations with teachers, students, and community members about how to strengthen our academic programming while better meeting the needs of all learners. As a result of this review, we will be making adjustments to both our Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) structures.
While both programs include valuable instructional components, our current model limits flexibility for students and creates scheduling and sustainability challenges. Our plan is not about reducing rigor. Rather, it is about ensuring that every student benefits from a strong, challenging core academic experience while also having greater access to electives, exploratory courses, and accelerated opportunities.
At the secondary level, we will transition away from the full MYP framework while maintaining rigorous, engaging, and inquiry-based instructional practices. This shift will allow us to strengthen Tier 1 instruction across all content areas, create more balanced schedules and class sizes, and expand opportunities for students to explore their interests. Teachers will continue to incorporate the most effective elements of MYP that align with strong instructional practice, including inquiry-based learning, student-centered instruction, varied assessment strategies, and international-mindedness.
At the high school level, we are refining our approach to the Diploma Programme to ensure long-term sustainability and broader access to advanced coursework. Beginning Fall 2026, we will reduce some DP options, expand Advanced Placement offerings, and offer DP courses in a more targeted, structured way during the school day. Students will continue to have a pathway to pursue the full DP Diploma, while also having greater flexibility to combine DP and AP coursework in ways that best support their goals.
These proactive changes are designed to strengthen core instruction, increase coherence and consistency across departments, and expand college-readiness opportunities for all students. Our focus remains on high expectations, strong teaching, and intentional program design to ensure every student is prepared for their next step.
FAQ
Is this change going to remove rigor from our curriculum?
Students will have expanded access to high school math credits and full-year world language experiences
What is happening to Theory of Knowledge (TOK), a foundational program to DP?
We are expanding seats in TOK to give more students access to it, rather than having students come complete this during 0 hour.
Will there still be an international and inquiry-based approach to learning?
Inquiry and international mindedness will continue to be a part of the Royal Oak School’s curriculum as these are a part of the values of the community and necessary for preparing students for post-secondary plans.
How will the elimination of Middle Years Programme (MYP) impact students' preparation for the Diploma Programme (DP)?
The rigor and instructional practices needed to prepare students for DP and Advanced Placement (AP) courses will continue without MYP. MYP is a framework, not a curriculum. Our teachers will continue to deliver a rigorous curriculum that will prepare students for all available pathways.