Welcome to the Middle School. At CSM we recognise the unique developmental characteristics of early adolescence, which is marked by significant physical, intellectual, emotional and moral growth and change. These years mark a fundamental transition where students advance in independence and individuality. In recognition of this, our Middle School seeks to facilitate learning experiences that are authentic, holistic, relevant, engaging and build a healthy sense of self. International-mindedness is woven through the fabric of the programme’s framework and is expressed through the IB learner profile.

IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Framework

Our curriculum is based on the MYP framework which provides flexibility for teachers to develop teaching programmes that are responsive to needs of students who are making sense of a rapidly changing world and to make authentic connections between their learning and local, regional and international contexts.

The Middle School comprises twelve core subjects: English, Individuals and Societies, Science, Mathematics, Italian, French or Spanish, Physical Education, Design, Music, Visual Art, and Drama. Additional CSM subject elements include PSED (Personal, Social Education), Coding and Robotics. Each subject is taught by a specialist teacher which allows students to be exposed to a greater expertise and a range of teaching styles. 

Assessment and Evaluation 

In Middle School, learning will initially focus on developing essential skills for academic success. Students are encouraged to become independent, responsible, organised, collaborative, and to take initiative. These skills are taught by homeroom advisors and supported by our specialist teachers and Counsellors. A student’s progress in these important skills are monitored by each subject teacher and reported termly. 

Formative assessments allow students to attempt new skills and demonstrate recent learning without their performance affecting their overall grade. Summative assessments such as essays, projects, tests, and exams demonstrate students’ learning and contribute to their overall course grade. The assessment tasks are designed to allow students to demonstrate all of the IB categories of achievement: knowledge and understanding, thinking and inquiry, communication and application/making connections. 

Middle School Highlights:

• Language electives: French A or French B, or Spanish 
• Coding and Robotics
• Optional Terza Media exam preparation for Italian students
• Rich Arts Programme with choir, orchestra and annual musical production
• Team-building induction trip in September
• Overnight field trips and experiential outings throughout the year
• Learning support programme for English, Math and Science
• Model United Nations annual trip
• Student Wellbeing Counselling services

Please see the Middle School Curriculum Booklet below for more details regarding the courses offered.