Preparing Learners for Growth and Discovery
At the International School of the Turks and Caicos Islands (ISTCI), our Middle School programme supports students as they transition from childhood to young adulthood. Through the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC), they explore Big Ideas that connect classroom learning to real-world experiences, fostering collaboration, curiosity, and critical thinking.
What Is the IMYC?
The International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) is a research-based framework created specifically for students aged 11–14. Drawing on insights into how the adolescent brain develops, it provides a structured approach that helps learners become stronger organisers, planners, and reflective thinkers. The IMYC combines rigorous subject learning with opportunities to grow personally and socially. Students work toward Subject Learning Goals (knowledge, skills, and understanding), Personal Learning Goals (character, resilience, and attitudes), and International Learning Goals (global competence and social awareness). This balance equips students to succeed academically while preparing them to make a positive impact in both their local and global communities.
The IMYC Learning Process
At ISTCI, every International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) unit follows the Process to Facilitate Learning, a framework that keeps students at the centre and makes each learning experience engaging, reflective, and effective. The process unfolds through five key stages:
This cycle is supported by ongoing assessment, self-assessment, and action, ensuring that every learner develops knowledge, skills, and understanding in ways that are both rigorous and relevant.
IMYC Learning Outcomes
The International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) outlines the knowledge, skills, and understanding required across all subjects to help students develop into globally competent individuals. By engaging in a multilingual education and exploring diverse cultures, students broaden their global perspective. With its internationally informed, research-based approach, the IMYC can stand alone or be integrated with other curricula, enriching middle years learning at ISTCI.
All IMYC Subject Learning Goals are created in collaboration with the global teaching community, ensuring they remain relevant to national and regional curricula. This flexibility allows Middle School at ISTCI to adapt the IMYC to meet local standards while maintaining international best practices.
Why Families
Choose the
IMYC at ISTCI
- A tailored approach that supports both individual learning paths and the needs of adolescence
- Modern media and active, skills-based learning that encourage self-reflection and deeper understanding
- A relevant curriculum that balances single-subject learning with shared, collaborative experiences
- Big Ideas such as Adaptability, Responsibility and Entrepreneurship that connect learning across disciplines
- A student-centred approach that fosters independence, critical thinking and creative engagement with local and global issues
How We Deliver the IMYC at ISTCI
At ISTCI, the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) prepares students to continue their education anywhere in the world. Learning is supported by our Global Campus, which connects students and teachers across an international network of schools.
This internationally recognised programme positions Middle School students for success at leading universities worldwide. By engaging with diverse cultures and customs, they develop the knowledge, skills, and global awareness needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Students also benefit from highly qualified international teachers and modern facilities that provide the support they need to succeed throughout their education.
Want to explore the IMYC in detail?
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