Dr Emma Shaw, CP Coordinator, Prem Tinsulanonda International School, Chiang Mai, Thailand
The IB Career-related Programme (CP) has been part of Prem’s journey since 2012. As one of the original pilot schools, we began with the BTEC Sports pathway. Over time, we moved to university-led Career-related Study (CRS) options, which offer more flexibility and better match the needs of our diverse student body.
Today, students can pursue pathways through the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), the Sustainability Management School (SUMAS), the World Academy of Sport (WAoS), and Arizona State University (ASU). These partnerships reflect Prem’s strengths in the arts, sports, and sustainability, helping students gain direction, confidence, and practical readiness.
Student choice builds confidence and purpose
CP students begin their journey by making informed decisions about their learning. They research pathways, reflect on goals, and engage with university providers. This builds independence from the start.
Once enrolled, students manage coursework online, collaborate with global peers, and attend live sessions. These experiences help them grow in confidence and responsibility.
“The CP gave me the ability to shape an academic journey that made sense to me. It pushed me out of my shell and helped me connect with others in academic and professional contexts.” Lanna Sayles (SCAD, Class of 2021)
Academic challenge with practical application
CP students take two to four DP courses alongside their CRS, maintaining academic depth. The Reflective Project challenges them to explore ethical issues tied to their career interests, often using creative formats.
Internships allow students to apply what they’ve learned in practical settings, helping them manage deadlines and meet real-world expectations.
“The program helped me develop discipline and emotional intelligence—skills that are crucial in any workplace.” Lanna Sayles (SCAD, Class of 2021)
Ethics, enterprise, and global perspectives
The Personal and Professional Skills course and the Reflective Project encourage students to think critically about ethical issues. At Prem, this learning continues through student-run businesses like Kozé Café and Local Prem Coffee, where students explore sustainability and business decisions in action, and participate in another CP core component of community engagement.
“I collaborated with arts students on campaigns that blended storytelling, design, and sustainability. It pushed me creatively and improved my leadership skills.” Thadee Lombardo (SUMAS, Class of 2024)
Language Development deepens cultural understanding. Students choose a language that supports their personal or professional interests.
“I chose Arabic, and now I have a much deeper understanding of Middle Eastern culture and cuisine.” Thadee Lombardo (SUMAS, Class of 2024)
Collaboration and critical thinking in action
CRS platforms connect students across time zones and cultures, requiring strong communication and collaboration. Local projects, events, and internships give students further opportunities to lead and contribute, building critical thinking and adaptability.
Strong foundations for life beyond school
CP students develop time management, initiative, and digital fluency. These are skills that support their transition to university and future careers.
“Universities were surprised by the depth of my professional and volunteer experience. CP gave me the freedom to pursue opportunities my DP peers didn’t have time for.”
— Lanna Sayles (SCAD, Class of 2021)
Meeting the needs of diverse learners
The CP often transforms students who previously struggled in traditional classrooms. With support and direction, they gain clarity, improve academically, and take ownership of their learning.
Practical learning that matters
At Prem, the CP combines academic learning, career preparation, ethics, and global perspectives. It gives students the tools to thrive—both in and beyond the classroom.
Key takeaways:
- Choice builds agency. Students begin the CP by taking ownership of their pathway.
- CRS promotes practical readiness. Students engage with university platforms and meet professional standards.
- Academic rigor takes many forms. DP courses and the Reflective Project allow students to think critically and creatively.
- Ethical and global thinking is embedded. Learning connects to sustainability, culture, and practical decisions.
- Personal transformation is possible. Many students' rediscover motivation and direction through the CP.
- The CP offers a distinct challenge. It suits learners who excel in flexible, applied, and interdisciplinary settings.
The CP at Prem shows what happens when strong guidance meets open pathways. The result is capable, confident students—ready for what’s next.
