St Leonards Celebrates 20 Years of the IB Diploma

26 August 2026

The IB Diploma Programme was introduced at St Leonards in 2006, at a time when the School was the only one in Scotland and one of fewer than a dozen nationally to offer exclusively or predominantly IB examinations. Since then, hundreds of pupils have completed the two-year Diploma Programme before continuing their education at universities around the world and pursuing a wide range of careers.

Over the past 20 years, the role of the IB at St Leonards has continued to grow. The School now offers all four IB Programmes, with the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme providing a continuous IB education from Kindergarten through to Year 13.

Independent thinking, research, reflection and international-mindedness remain central to an IB education, encouraging pupils to think broadly about their learning and the world around them.

Head of School, Simon Brian said:

“There is a real sense of pride in reaching this 20-year milestone. Twenty years on, the IB feels completely at home at St Leonards because its values are so closely aligned with our own: an education that is ambitious, outward-looking and, above all, preparation for life.”

As a new academic year begins, we also recognise the staff and families who have supported generations of IB pupils along the way. We look forward to seeing what the next generation will go on to achieve. Here’s to the next 20 years of the IB Diploma.