IBS Provence: Study and Life in France – An Inside Look

In my blog, I always try to highlight the most interesting aspects of each school I've personally visited or received valuable feedback from my students. Today, I invite you to read an interview with my student, Arsenii, who is currently studying the IB Diploma program at the bilingual French school IBS Provence (International Bilingual School of Provence).

Located in picturesque Aix-en-Provence, France, and founded in 1984, this international school has long established itself as an educational institution successfully preparing students for university admissions worldwide. Known for its bilingual approach (English and French), IBS Provence attracts students from over 80 countries, creating a truly multicultural environment. Arsenii will share his invaluable experience and tell us what it's like to be part of IBS Provence.

First Impressions: Expectations Exceeded

For Arsenii, IBS Provence immediately appeared in all its glory: "large, modern, and incredibly well-maintained." He recalls how struck he was by the school's atmosphere – a combination of academic seriousness and a warm, supportive environment. "My expectations were fully met," he shares, and this feeling of comfort and cutting-edge standards became the ideal start to his academic journey. The school, located in one of France's most beautiful regions, offers not only high-quality education but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the unique Provençal culture.

The IB Diploma Program: A Path to Deep Knowledge and Personal Growth

The IB Diploma Programme is not just a collection of subjects; it's a comprehensive challenge that shapes thinking and character. Arsenii confirms: it is "quite difficult and requires a lot of effort and time." This intensive immersion in diverse disciplines, from sciences to humanities, allows students to develop comprehensively. He emphasizes the critical importance of "a good knowledge of English," as most of the study materials and assignments are in English. Furthermore, success in the IB program requires self-discipline and excellent time management, as "a large number of deadlines and additional tasks" are an integral part of the path to the coveted diploma.

Among his favorite subjects, Arsenii particularly highlights biology, striving to "know how nature works" and to understand more deeply the interconnections in the world around us. Theater, for him, has become a true outlet and a platform for self-expression, where he can unleash his creative potential and improve his public speaking skills.

Teachers: Experienced Mentors and Reliable Support

According to Arsenii, "the level of teaching at the school... is above average." He notes that while quality may vary slightly from teacher to teacher, "overall, the support from the teachers is very good." They don't just lecture but actively engage students, ready to help with complex concepts and provide additional resources. This support system creates a favorable environment where every student feels confident and motivated.

The Learning Process: Dynamic Pace and Opportunities for Growth

For boarding students like Arsenii, the school day is eventful and can extend into the late evening, sometimes until 7 PM, including dinner at school. Nevertheless, he notes that "overall there is enough time between lessons for rest," which allows for switching gears and preparing for subsequent classes.

Arsenii particularly values discussions as a form of work because they "provide an opportunity to express one's point of view and develop it." This contributes not only to a deep understanding of the material but also to the development of critical thinking, the ability to argue one's position, and effective communication in a multicultural environment.

The school shows care for its students by offering comprehensive support in case of difficulties. Students can contact a teacher for an additional consultation hour to thoroughly discuss complex questions. And during holidays, it is possible to undergo a "revision week for an additional fee" – an excellent way to consolidate learned material and significantly improve academic results before exams.

Life in the Boarding House: Comfort, Community, and Rules

The IBS Provence boarding house maintains a high level of cleanliness and order. Most supervisors, according to Arsenii, are "normal and attentive," always ready to help. On weekends, various and interesting activities are often organized for students, allowing them to relax from studies and make new acquaintances. However, Arsenii notes that "some boarding houses are significantly newer and better in terms of conditions than others, which creates an imbalance," which is an important point for future students. There are also clear rules: when going out into the city, one must return no later than 10 PM, ensuring safety and order.

Weekday meals are full three times a day. Although breakfasts are sometimes "not always appealing," lunches and dinners are generally "quite normal" and varied. On weekends, the dining hall is usually closed, except on Sundays, but the school takes care of students' meals by paying for food delivery.

Regarding social interaction, Arsenii notes that, although events are held, "no one particularly wants to participate freely." He prefers to socialize with a small but close group of friends in the boarding house, which creates more intimate and trusting communication.

Extracurricular Activities and Personal Growth: Shaping a Future Leader

Due to the intensity of the IB program, Arsenii is currently not attending extracurricular activities. However, he previously enjoyed playing badminton, which helped him take a break from studying and maintain physical fitness. Unfortunately, he did not participate in school trips for personal reasons, but such trips undoubtedly enrich the learning experience by offering cultural immersion and new impressions.

Studying at IBS Provence and participating in the IB program has had a significant impact on Arsenii. He emphasizes that it has helped him "better communicate with people from different countries, with different cultures and traditions." This is an invaluable experience that fosters intercultural competence and global thinking. The IB program, although "multi-faceted," is "quite demanding," teaching discipline and perseverance. To achieve outstanding results, for example, the coveted grade of 7, "one sometimes has to almost completely give up personal life," which demonstrates the level of dedication required for success.

Key Strengths and Golden Advice for Future Students

According to Arsenii, the strongest aspects of IBS Provence are its "quality marketing and a balanced combination of price, study conditions, and accommodation" compared to other international schools. This makes it an attractive choice for those seeking an optimal balance of cost and quality.

Arsenii offers invaluable advice to future students: be "friendly to everyone." He is confident that this will help them "adapt more easily, make friends, and feel more comfortable in a new environment." And if he had the opportunity to change something in his first year, he would "reconsider some subjects he chose at the beginning," so he strongly recommends to "carefully consider your choice of disciplines even before starting your studies." This advice will help avoid potential disappointments and maximize the opportunities of the IB program.

This article, based on the sincere answers of my student Arsenii, provides a comprehensive and in-depth overview of life and study at IBS Provence, highlighting both the impressive advantages and the realistic challenges faced by students of the IB Diploma Programme. I hope this information will be helpful for anyone considering studying at this wonderful school!