BSH IB Creativity, Action, Service
The CAS requirement takes seriously the importance of life outside the world of studying, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the academic self-absorption some may feel within a demanding school programme.
Participation in theatre productions, sports and community service activities encourages young people to share their energies and special talents while developing awareness, concern, and the ability to work co-operatively with others.
The IB goal of educating the whole person and fostering a meaningful sense of citizenship comes alive in an immediate way when students reach beyond themselves and their books.
This philosophy is based on several assumptions:
- Education does not begin or end in the classroom or examination hall and the most essential elements of education may exist outside of both
- An international education must go well beyond the provision of information and is involved in the development of attitudes and values which transcend barriers of race, class, religion, gender or politics
- Service to the community (local, national or international) is a complement to intellectual development and the academic curriculum
IB schools have a special challenge and opportunity to establish links with the local community and, by doing so, to further international understanding.
Creativity and Action should play an equal part with service in any CAS programme. CAS should:
“Challenge and extend the individual student; develop a spirit of discovery and self reliance; encourage new skills and interests and inspire a sense of responsibility towards all members of the community”
CAS activities are often the source of genuine pride and satisfaction for students and create a distinct and lasting impression of the IB Diploma Programme experience.
The following are just some of the options open to IB students:
Creativity: Drama productions: performing or stage management, joining an orchestra/choir, private music practice, debating, public speaking, photography, magazine creation and editing, creative writing, art or pottery
Action: All sport including: rugby, football, badminton, tennis, athletics, netball, hockey, lacrosse, cross-country running, aerobics, fitness training, rowing, sailing, fencing and judo; certain aspects of the Congressional Award and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.
Service Students may provide a service to their school (such as running an activity), to their local community or to the international community. Pupils may visit local schools to help with the reading of young children or they might visit a local pensioner. Ecological ventures are very popular as are major fund-raising events.