A Journey of Growth and Discovery
Students in Middle School begin to think critically and reason abstractly. The BFIS learning experience is one in which, at a time of rapid intellectual and personal change, students strengthen their independent learning skills and begin to pursue specific learning interests.
Curriculum Overview
At BFIS, all courses in grades 6–10 follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) framework. The MYP curriculum is organized into eight subject groups: Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Design.
The MYP emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, inquiry-based instruction, and the ongoing development of the five IB Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills: communication, self-management, thinking, research, and social skills. While grounded in the MYP framework and IB philosophy, which promote international mindedness and the development of responsible global citizens, courses may also incorporate subject-specific standards such as the Common Core or NGSS to enrich content and ensure academic rigor.
Benjamin Franklin International School (BFIS) is a Candidate School* for the Middle Years Programme. This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy—a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education that BFIS believes is important for our students. *Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme, or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org
Subject Details
Student Voice and Choice
At BFIS, we provide students with opportunities to explore beyond the standard curriculum through student clubs, flex courses, co-curricular programs, and after-school activities, helping them discover new interests and passions.
Advisory Program
The BFIS Secondary Advisory Program supports students' personal, social, and academic growth by fostering a strong sense of belonging and community. Through every-other day advisory sessions, students engage in social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and activities that promote wellbeing, digital citizenship, and self-management skills. The program also builds connections across grade levels through the House Program and encourages student leadership and voice. Rooted in the BFIS Core Values, and aligned with the IB Learner Profile Traits and Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, advisory helps students develop as compassionate, reflective, and responsible members of our school community.
Student Services
Library
The school library service plays a vital role in supporting students' academic and personal development by providing access to a wide range of resources, including books, digital media, and research tools.
Whole-School Support
Whole-School Support offers tailored assistance to help all students thrive academically, ensuring every student reaches their full potential.
Counseling Services
Our school counseling services support students' emotional, social, and academic well-being and help students navigate challenges, build resilience, and develop essential life skills for personal growth.