DP Student Handbook 2018-2019

DP STUDENT HANDBOOK
2018 - 2019
DP STUDENT HANDBOOK 2017-2018
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
Table of Contents ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2
1. Introduction....................................................................................................................................................................... 4
UWC Maastricht Vision Statement .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Mission and Values................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Learning to care for yourself and your community ................................................................................................................... 4
Roles at UWCM ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Personal Tutors and Tutor Groups .......................................................................................................................................... 5
Head of Year (HOY DP1&2) ................................................................................................................................................... 5
Interim Director of Studies Secondary (DoS)........................................................................................................................... 5
Interim Deputy Directors of Secondary School ........................................................................................................................ 6
Residence Mentors (RMs) ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
Head of Residential Life .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Student Support...................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Head of College ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Interpersonal and Intercultural Awareness .............................................................................................................................. 7
2. Student Life ....................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Student Council ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8
DP Community Building .......................................................................................................................................................... 8
The Forum ............................................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Residential Community Meetings ............................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
DP day student access to the school building ......................................................................................................................... 8
Library .................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Community Safety Guidelines - Students ................................................................................................................................ 9
Youth Social Entrepreneurship ............................................................................................................................................. 11
UWCM Conferences ............................................................................................................................................................. 11
Additional Opportunities to learn about the World ................................................................................................................. 12
3. Learning to Live Responsibly & Community Expectations.......................................................................................... 14
UWC MAASTRICHT 2
Respect -- The Fundamental Principle that Guides all of our rules and expectations ............................................................ 14
Absence from College .......................................................................................................................................................... 16
Unauthorised Absence--DP .................................................................................................................................................. 17
Table of attendance bands and actions taken in response to unauthorised absence in a given term:.................................... 17
4. Academic Honesty.......................................................................................................................................................... 18
5. Learning Through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) ....................................................... 19
Constructing a Subject Package ........................................................................................................................................... 20
IBDP Courses Offered at UWC Maastricht ............................................................................................................................ 20
Group 1: Languages and Literature ...................................................................................................................................... 20
Group 2: Language Acquisition ............................................................................................................................................. 20
Group 3: Individuals and Societies ........................................................................................................................................ 22
Group 4: Sciences ................................................................................................................................................................ 24
Group 5: Mathematics .......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Group 6: The Arts ................................................................................................................................................................. 26
Features of the curriculum and assessment models ................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Subject Assessment in all IBDP Subjects ............................................................................................................................. 28
Assessment .......................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Anticipated grades ................................................................................................................................................................ 31
IB Core ................................................................................................................................................................................. 32
Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) ................................................................................................................................... 32
6. University Counselling (Universities) ............................................................................................................................ 34
7. Practical information ...................................................................................................................................................... 37
8. Alumni Affairs - A Lifelong Community....................................................................................................................... 40
9. Residential Life Section ................................................................................................................................................. 41
UWC MAASTRICHT 3
1. INTRODUCTION
UWC MAASTRICHT VISION STATEMENT
We offer a challenging and engaging education for students from all age groups, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and
qualities of mind to live a meaningful and flourishing life. The UWC Maastricht educational experience is about knowing and
acting. We nurture an understanding of the world and its major challenges, and help students discover how they can serve
others and make a positive contribution to society and the planet. We also believe in giving students appropriate and authentic
responsibilities as part of their learning journey, allowing them to develop their courage and capacity to test their limits - to try,
fail and try again - in a safe environment. In pursuing this model, we position ourselves at the vanguard of education for the
21st century and share our successes and failures within the wider educational community. We currently serve over 900
students from more than 100 countries, 360 of whom follow the IB Diploma Programme.
A UWC education is life-changing. We empower change makers and future leaders through the delivery of a unique
programme in a deliberately diverse community. The educational ethos of UWC combines rigorous academic standards with
experiential and inquiry-based learning in areas such as sustainability, intercultural dialogue, social justice, conflict resolution
and social entrepreneurship. UWC students come together from very diverse backgrounds, including the most marginalised.
Access to a UWC education is given independent of socio-economic background, supported through a rigorous admission
process and a comprehensive scholarship programme: around 65% of UWC students attending the final two years of
secondary school are awarded a full or partial scholarship. UWC’s 60,000 alumni are prized by top universities worldwide and,
in their professional lives, they occupy positions of influence in industry, finance, civil society, government, healthcare,
academia and the media.
MISSION AND VALUES
UWC makes education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.
UWC believes that to achieve peace and a sustainable future, the values it promotes are crucial.
UWC is a unique organisation. It is the only global educational NGO that brings students together from all over the world,
selected from within their own countries, on merit and regardless of their ability to pay. These students come together at
colleges and schools on five continents that aim to foster international understanding and peace through:
● International and intercultural understanding.

● Celebration of difference.
● Personal responsibility and integrity.
● Mutual responsibility and respect.
● Compassion and service.
● Respect for the environment.
● A sense of idealism.
● Personal challenge.
● Action and personal example.
LEARNING TO CARE FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR COMMUNITY
“Begin challenging your own assumptions. Your assumptions are your windows on the world. Scrub them off every once in a
while, or the light won't come in.” ― Alan Alda
UWC Maastricht is made up of students and staff from many different backgrounds with many different experiences. Our IB
Diploma students live on and off campus and, because we are located within the city of Maastricht, many of our service
providers are professional, external organisations. Looking after yourself and finding your place alongside others in this varied
community can be a challenge and to do so is definitely rewarding.
When you are here, you will need to make sure you:
● Get enough sleep.

● Take regular physical exercise.
● Take time for reflection.
Without taking care of yourself you cannot:
● Take care of others

● Meet the challenges of the UWC Maastricht programme
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● Discover your full potential
Life at UWC Maastricht is about recognising and taking responsibility. You are responsible for participating fully in the UWCM
programme, including:
● Building and maintaining relationships with service providers

● Making our school community a mutually respectful, celebratory and friendly place in which to be.
We all agree to the same values when we join UWC Maastricht; to help these values come alive, we encourage students to
share their daily experiences so they develop empathy and understanding with the whole community. Easy ways to mix and
learn from each other include:
● Residential students can invite day students to the residence buildings as their guests during the daytime by signing
them in the guest book
● Day students can request to host residential students during weekday evenings or overnight stays during the
weekend.
● CAS activities also enable more communication amongst students, working towards common goals or honing
common skills
ROLES AT UWCM
“If you begin to understand what you are without trying to change it, then what you are undergoes a transformation.” ― Jiddu
Krishnamurti
Being independent does not mean doing everything by yourself. Independence means knowing how, when, and where to find
solutions and to develop the skills you need to overcome challenges. We aim to guide you towards understanding and taking
personal responsibility at UWCM and in the world beyond.
Your time at UWC Maastricht will fill very quickly so it is important that you know who is available to give you guidance. Here
are some of the different people who will support your UWC experience:
PERSONAL TUTORS AND TUTOR GROUPS
Every student belongs to a small tutor group consisting of:
● A Personal Tutor (who is also a subject teacher)

● DP1&2 students from the day and residential community
Each week you will:
● Meet with your tutor group to share ideas and suggestions or participate in activities
● Have the chance to meet individually with your Personal Tutor in order to check how you are doing
We find that this regular contact allows trusting relationships to form. This creates an environment in which the tutor group can
work towards guided support for one another.
HEAD OF YEAR (HOY DP1&2)
The Head of Year:
 Coordinates and support the Personal Tutors

 Works closely with other members of our student support network
 Aims to ensure we are offering consistent, appropriate, personalised support
DIRECTOR OF STUDIES SECONDARY (DOS)
This person is responsible for day-to-day operations in Secondary (MYP and DP). The DoS oversees the work of the Interim
Deputy Directors, Heads of Department (HoDs) and the HoYs as well as the classroom teachers, tutors and residence mentors.
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INTERIM DEPUTY DIRECTORS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL
 Interim Deputy Director of Teaching and Learning (DDTL)
It is the responsibility of the DTL to manage and lead the Heads of Academic Departments and Academic Co-ordinators, co-
constructing a shared vision for teaching and learning in both the MYP & the DP sections of the Secondary School.
 Interim Deputy Director of Student Life (DDSL)
It is the responsibility of the DSL to manage and lead the Heads of Year and Director of Residential Life. These reports
themselves involve the management of well-developed teams (tutors and residence mentors).
 Interim Deputy Director of Student Services (DDSS)
It is the responsibility of the DSS to lead and manage a diverse group of service departments: school counsellors; university
counsellors; the SEN services; the ELL department and medical services (the school nurse and doctor).
 Interim Deputy Director of Community Engagement (DDCE)
It is the responsibility of the DCE to lead and manage a diverse team, which consists of professionals who run programmes
which engage with the wider community. Specific programmes include but are not limited to CAS; project weeks; Service As
Action (MYP); student led-conferences; cultural weeks, YSE and UWC related activities, such as UWC Day.
RESIDENCE MENTORS (RMS)
The Residence Mentors are responsible for the overall well-being of the students residing on their floor in the residential house.
They support the residential students in the implementation of the UWC Maastricht principles through mentoring them in a
residential setting. They are a part of the team which liaises with different members of the community as necessary.
HEAD OF RESIDENTIAL LIFE

● Responsible for the organisation and implementation of the residential programme
● Coordinating, coaching and supporting of Residence Mentors
STUDENT SUPPORT
Student Support aims to assist with:
 Successful access to every part of UWCM’s curriculum both inside and outside the classroom
 Your well-being and positive experience at UWCM.
Our team consists of:
 School Nurse
On site from 7:45 a.m. until the end of the school day in the medical office in the King Willem-Alexander Residence
on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. She works half days on Wednesday. For exact timings please check the
notice board outside the nurse’s office.
If you are feeling unwell and the nurse is not available you should contact Reception during the school day and your
residence mentor after school.
 Learning Support
Specialist who provides guidance for students with barriers to learning or who would like additional support in:
 organisation
 note taking
 test taking
 learning with basic support for externally-diagnosed barriers to learning or learning differences (such as
dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD and other differences).
 Psychologist
Provide support for social, personal and emotional challenges, including:
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 having difficulty adapting to the UWCM environment

 making healthy lifestyle decisions
 making friends and maintaining healthy relationships
 feeling sad and anxious
 English Language Learning (ELL)

Team of specialists who will provide social, emotional and language support to guide your transition into English,
including:
 Small group ELL lessons until you reach intermediate proficiency
 1:1 subject support to help you to access and understand academic language
 A safe space to go to whenever you need help with the language
 UWCM August Summer School programme for DP students with little or no proficiency in English to help
with the transition into life at UWCM (contact summerschool@uwcmaastricht.nl for more information)
● Peer Support Team

Has the aim to provide an additional option to the current support system through which students can find support
from students who are similar in age, experience, and comfort zone. Peer Support is strictly confidential unless
someone is at risk or being harmed. It is then the obligation of the peer supporter to seek professional help. The
objectives of the Peer Support Team are:
 Help students by actively listening to challenges such as homesickness, culture shock, academic worries,
loneliness, problems with roommates, problems at home, etc.
 To enable students and tutors to become an accessible and supportive resource to their peers.
 To equip students (and tutors) with interpersonal and active listening skills.
 To foster personal growth.
We work closely with your personal tutors so that they can support you. You can ask your tutor about how to contact us, send
an e-mail, or come directly to our office.
HEAD OF COLLEGE
This person is responsible for all aspects of UWC Maastricht. The Head of College main role is to represent the school to the
wider community in the Netherlands, within the UWC movement and to major supporters and funders.
INTERPERSONAL AND INTERCULTURAL AWARENESS
“There is a crack, a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.” - Leonard Cohen
UWCM’s community has:
● Over one hundred nationalities represented

● Students (ages 3-20) from Kindergarten through the IB diploma programme
You will quickly realise what it means to spend your days within a culturally and age diverse community.
● Listening to others is the key to becoming a valued community member.

● Listening will allow you to access the broad range of experiences surrounding you
● Listening will quickly help you build trust through mutual understanding
● Listening will also allow you to share your experiences and compare and contrast your lifestyle with that of people
from all around the world
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2. STUDENT LIFE
STUDENT COUNCIL
If you are interested in representing the student body and working alongside school leadership, then perhaps you will want to
run for election to Student Council. Student Council consists of 3 portfolios:
● Student Life - a focus around the wellbeing of students. It includes initiatives to bridge the gap between Day and
Residential Students and ensuring that the needs of students such as health and religious needs are met.
● Academics – a focus towards the IB Diploma and how that affects the student body. It includes working with staff to
find solutions for issues that are causing difficulties to students and helping to ensure that information is
communicated clearly between students and staff.
 Community Events –a focus around the many events such as conferences, culture weeks, community time and
assemblies that take place in UWCM. This portfolio essentially involves setting up a stable structure from which other
students can lead new and existing initiatives as part of their learning experience.
The Student Council is supported by Floor Representatives for the Residential Community and Commuting Representatives for
the Day Student Community.
These are great opportunities to become involved in working towards strengthening the school from the inside.
DP COMMUNITY BUILDING
Say What Lectures
A community forum to unpack the global and local challenges of today. Each talk is made up of performance, discussion and
activity. The topics range across the spectrum of subject fields. Sessions are held once a month on Tuesday from 15:30 to
17:00. Attendance is mandatory.
The Forum
The Forum, a student-initiated activity, has become a way for the school community to come together in order to communicate
and clarify different aspects of UWC Maastricht life. These meetings are chaired by members of Student Council. The Heads of
Year, Deputy Director, the Director of Studies and the Head of College may participate according to the specific theme of the
forum. The regular involvement of students is essential in order to promote the transparency and communication that this forum
aims to achieve; student questions and inquiries are responsible for sparking debate that can be followed by questions and
opinions from all participants and then translated into action wherever possible.
Residential Community Meetings
These meetings create an opportunity for all the residential members to come together to discuss ideas and issues relevant to
living together on the campus of UWCM. The meetings offer opportunities to practice conflict resolution, public speaking, and
active listening in a group of 200+ people with diverse views and opinions on issues common to all the residential community.
Residential community meetings are based on the belief that there is wisdom in listening to the whole community before making
major decisions or finding out sustainable solutions to issues which impacts on the whole community.
DP DAY STUDENT ACCESS TO THE SCHOOL BUILDING
1. DP day students are welcome to use the school building until 07.00 PM on weekdays (during term time). Additionally, from 1
October until 1 June, there will be guards on Wednesdays from 07:30 PM until 09:00 PM and on Thursdays from 07:30 PM until
09:00 PM to allow for CAS activities on campus in the evening. DP Day students are now able to use their cards to access the
building via any entrance during this time.
Please use the school building responsibly and in case of emergency or if you need any help please go to reception. Polygarde
takes over from the receptionists when they leave.
UWC MAASTRICHT 8
On Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays Polygarde will check and clear the building from 07.00 PM, on Wednesdays at 09:00 PM,
and on Thursdays on 09:00 PM. Please be polite to Polygarde and respect the when you are asked to leave. You may also be
asked to show your school pass.
In brief, you may remember we need Polygarde/a supervisor to be present when day students use the building after school and
CAS hours for insurance and liability reasons. For residential students it can be seen as an extension to their living space and
therefore this is not required. We continue to seek further solutions.
2. DP day students who wish to have dinner in the Mensa can buy a dinner ticket from reception for the (cost) price of 5 Euros.
Five tickets are made available for each day. If you are a larger group please book via reception at least 7 days in advance so
that food can be ordered.
Day students continue to be welcomed in the residences until check in (10.00 PM) if they follow the protocols in place and are
the guest of and hosted by a residential student and sign in and out of the floor.
LIBRARY
The library is a place for reading and quiet study. Resources include:
● Resources for Extended Essays and Internal Assessments, including an online subscription to Britannica School
(which contains research papers, e-books, and encyclopedia entries: http://school.eb.com/levels from this link, click
on Advanced>My Britannica>sign up. You do not need to enter anything in the field which says School Code).
● Reference books for taught subjects.
● Fiction in 35 different languages.
● Dictionaries in many languages.
● Subscriptions to several language magazines, science magazines, The Economist, The New Scientist, Time
magazine, IB World and History and Geography magazines.
In addition, we are looking into the possibility of offering e-books
Opening hours
08.00 AM - 05.00 PM (for borrowing or returning books)
05.00 PM - 10.30 PM and on weekends: students may work under the supervision of student supervisors. If no supervisors are
available, the library will remain closed so please consider volunteering for this responsibility.
General rules
No eating is permitted in the library. Students may bring water bottles. Students who violate this rule will be asked to
leave the library.
MP3 –players are allowed with earphones, as long as nobody else is disturbed.
Students must work as quietly as possible.
Use of computers
During school hours computers are for schoolwork and homework only: no gaming or social media. Students who violate this
rule, will be asked to leave the computer area. After school hours and on the weekends schoolwork and homework have priority
over other uses.
Books
Textbooks and other books which are used in class can be borrowed until the end of the school year or project.
Library books can be borrowed for two weeks and renewed. It is the student’s responsibility to renew the books on time. A list
with due books can be found in the library every week. If a book is late, the fine is € 0.50 per book per day.
After work
Students must tidy up their tables, push the chairs under the tables, and put trash in the bin and log off their computers.
COMMUNITY SAFETY GUIDELINES - STUDENTS
You, staff (teaching, non-teaching staff and contractors) and parents commit to working together to ensure that UWC
Maastricht provides a safe environment for learning without risk to health, so far as is reasonably practicable.
As part of this commitment you will be:
UWC MAASTRICHT 9
● Easily identifiable:
○ You must wear your green lanyards and passes at all times.
○ You are asked to ensure that everyone in school wears their lanyard and pass and remind peers when
necessary.
● Aware:
○ If you who notice "strangers" in school who are not wearing a red lanyard or a visitors badge, report this
immediately to a staff member or to the reception.
○ CCTV records the entrances to the campus, the school buildings and the Mensa.
● Responsible:
○ MYP and Primary students are not permitted to leave the campus without permission between 08.10 AM
and 03.00 PM (Primary)/ 03.15 PM (Secondary).
○ All students are asked to respect the boundaries of the areas designated for break times and expectations
of good behavior. Staff take a proactive approach to monitoring designated areas, exits, behavior and
littering and you should report any concerns to the staff member on duty.
○ If you have a bicycle on campus, you must ensure that it is locked at all times.
○ You are asked to respect the rules of the road when cycling and ensure that you can be clearly seen.
(Remember to switch on your bike lights when it is dark!).
● Vigilant:
○ You should ensure that doors are closed behind you and ensure that only people with the appropriate
passes have access to the school buildings.
○ Please do not bring valuable items to school. If you must do so, then please keep them in your direct
possession.
○ You are advised to label all articles (bicycles, jackets, books, lunch boxes, P.E. clothing etc.) and ensure
that no money or valuables should ever be left unattended especially in the changing rooms or other areas.
If you are a day student, you will be issued with a locker which can be accessed with the help of your swipe
card.
○ If you have lost property at school, you should ask, in the first instance, at the reception. Any items found in
and around the school building should be handed in to reception.
 Safe in the school and on school activities:
o You will need to be familiar with and actively respect safety guidelines and instructions in the classroom,
on campus and on school activities.
o It is strictly forbidden for you to have in your possession on school premises any item which could cause
obvious danger to others or any kind of offensive weapon, for instance (pen-) knives.
o You will need to be familiar with the risks and actively respect guidelines for the use of the internet and
social media.
o You will report any concerns about safety to a member of staff.
o Familiar with emergency procedures.
You should:
o Contact a member of staff immediately if an incident occurs and help is needed.
o Report any first aid issues to reception (or a member of staff).
o Be familiar with and have practised regularly the evacuation procedure.
o Be familiar with the ‘intruder procedure’.
Information Technology (IT)

All computers are part of the school network. The school campus grounds are for 95% covered by WiFi You will need a
computer account (provided) and activate in on one of the networked computers before you can log on to WiFi If you have
any IT difficulties or questions you can consult with our IT team in room A1.14.
For the use of all IT services please consult the ‘Acceptable Use Policy’
Campus/Day Visitors
Any visitors to the school must report to reception. Reception will then contact the host. After the host confirms the visit,
reception will issue a visitor’s pass to the visitor or guest. The host should then come to reception and receive the guest/visitor.
The host is responsible for the guest/visitor and must act as point of contact for the guest.
On the back of the visitors badge the visitor will find the safety instructions from UWCM in case of emergency in our school.
For more information about visiting the residences please refer to the residential section of this handbook.
Sustainability
UWC Maastricht is located within the city of Maastricht, yet it is placed on an island surrounded by a unique ecosystem and in
close proximity to farmland and nature areas. All members of the community are required to respect the environment and act
responsibly. The community is expected to consider how the resources used may have an environmental impact. The school
aims to prevent waste of resources, including paper, water and electricity. Each member of the community should contribute to
this effort. UWC Maastricht encourages everyone to recycle and compost in order to reduce the school’s waste. When you
arrive at UWC Maastricht, you will attend workshops on recycling, composting, food waste, printer usage and overall
environmental responsibilities.
UWC MAASTRICHT 10
The ‘Swap Shop’ is a good way to support the concept of reusing and allows you to reduce the amount of belongings you bring
to UWC Maastricht because you can find clothing here.
You are also encouraged to use sustainable means of transport for your trip to the school and throughout your stay at UWC
Maastricht.
YOUTH SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Youth Social Entrepreneurship (YSE) is an enriching programme for all DP1 students. You will be immersed in an over two
months training that will provide you with the tools to:
 analyse community needs in Maastricht and abroad
 innovate and find solutions to these problems
 design projects to tackle those challenges sustainably while engaging the community
 pitch your ideas effectively
 develop a budget
 strategise and create a fundraising plan
 create and manage a team
 evaluate impact
The course includes participatory sessions, guest speakers, user-centred research, field visits and specific workshops. In the
school year 2018-2019 YSE will take place in three phases: first one, of training, from Wednesday 24th to Friday 26th October,
a month to engage in user research and meet your team’s project mentor and the third phase of training on Monday 26th and
Tuesday 27th November. The final YSE Community Panel, in which teams will pitch their projects to a panel of experts will take
place on Monday 3rd December as the closing celebration.
The five main entrepreneurial skills you will develop through the YSE programme are:
 Creativity
 Communication
 Problem solving
 Teamwork
 Resource management
The programme is structured as a Changemaker Process in seven stages:

 Acknowledging yourself as a potential changemaker
 Discovering social and environmental challenges or other in our community of Maastricht first but also back home
 Letting yourself explore all the possibilities that creative ideas might bring to address and/or solve one of those
challenges
 Structuring those ideas into a project design
 Taking action by researching and finding out more about the real needs of the potential users of your solution and
trying it out through a prototype
 Pitching your project design to a big audience
 Reflecting on the process and evaluating the potential impact of your project
The eighth stage, which is voluntary, would entail to actually implement your project. In this stage you can have access to a
network of mentors to guide or support your solution. You can implement as any of the following:
 CAS Creativity experience (on the first year) and CAS Community Service (on the second year)
 Project Weeks
 Summer project
 Additional project during the year
UWCM CONFERENCES
UWC Maastricht is proud of its annual student led conferences. These conferences are completely organised by students, with
staff supporting and advising throughout the process. If you want to help organise and/or volunteer to help at one of our
conferences then you can choose which one to apply for from the following list. If you would rather just broaden your UWC
experience then come along as a participant (this is just as important!):
UWC MAASTRICHT 11
ToK Conference (Theory of Knowledge)

The TOK Conference provides you with the opportunity to engage critically with the world around you. You will spend two days
exploring one specific theme by looking at it through the different academic disciplines. Together with student guests from a
variety of schools and prestigious keynote speakers, you will join the organising team in a variety of active workshops which are
designed to raise as many questions as answers. By the end of the conference, we want you to understand some of the
reasons behind why you know what you think you know. To find out more visit our website: www.tokuwcmaastricht.com
IPC Conference (International Peace Conference)

On 23 January 2015 the first ever Peace Conference at UWC Maastricht took place. It began as an initiative by a Palestinian
and an Israeli student who overcame their preconceptions of each other, and culminated in a three-day event with student-led
workshops and guest lectures from experts in war journalism, development work, politics and diplomacy. The highlight was the
opening of an Israeli-Palestinian Youth Parliament, which serves as a forum for youngsters to voice their opinion about the
ongoing conflict and search for solutions. In the years to come we will be building upon the foundations laid by the first
organisers and we have already started working on next year’s conference - our third. See the website for more information:
www.internationalpeaceconference.orghttp://www.internationalpeaceconference.com/
TEDx
TEDxYouth organizes conferences are designed for youth, by youth. TEDxYouth@Maastricht is an entirely student-led
conference by the DP students of United World College Maastricht. The audience of TEDxYouth varies from the age of 11 to 25
years old. Younger students generally participate in workshops given throughout the day, whilst older students mainly attend as
an audience to the talks.
ArtBeat
ArtBeat is a festival to celebrate creativity everywhere around us and step out of your comfort zone to experience life from a
different perspective. ArtBeat has activities such as an Open Mic and Art Exhibitions/
Explorer Mock Trial

During Explorer Mock Trial our DP1 students get the chance to experience what it is like to hold a real court trial, by fulfilling the
role of lawyer, judge or witness. The participants work in collaboration with the Law Faculty at Maastricht University with whom
they prepare extensively prior to the trial.
Youth Environment Sustainability (YES) Conference

The YES-Conference focuses on Youth, Environment and Sustainability. This fresh and exciting conference aims to inform
students from a wide range of backgrounds about a variety of issues related to climate change and the environment, as well as
to spark discussion by showing creative initiatives that have the potential to make a positive change. This great event goes far
beyond the usual conversation about pollution of the environment and really looks into the effects climate change will have in
the next few decades on economies, society, culture and nature.
Culture Weeks
Culture Weeks are an opportunity for all students to come together and share their culture, faith and language. All week DP
students organize activities at break and lunch times to celebrate their cultures with the whole school community. The Culture
Weeks happen on a rotational basis once every two years for the following:
● African Caribbean Culture Week

● Middle Eastern North Africa Culture Week (MENA)
● Eastern European Culture Week
● Asian Culture Week
● Western Europe North America Culture Week (WENA)
● Latin American Culture Week
In the academic year 2018-2019 we will celebrate the Asian, WENA, and Latin American Culture Weeks.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN ABOUT THE WORLD
“There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered.” ―
Nelson Mandela
UWC MAASTRICHT 12
Sharing Home Life

If you are joining our residential community, you will be well cared for on site. However, there is no doubt that you will also
enjoy the opportunity to relax in a family home. We fully encourage families from our day community to invite residential
students to join them for an evening meal or perhaps a weekend stay. The change of scenery and food is always positive and
you will all learn something new from each other. All you need to do is let us know in advance by following the residential
guidelines.
Home Stay Programme

During the times when Campus is closed we encourage you to travel and explore Europe, join your peers and organise your
own projects. You can apply for the Home Stay Programme if you are unable to travel or cannot go home due to financial,
political and/or personal circumstances.
A Typical Day
Because we are a day and residential community, inevitably there will be some differences in a typical DP student’s day.
However, in keeping with the UWC values, we believe these differences provide a great opportunity to further enrich the
experience of our community.
The structure of everybody’s day is basically the same:
● 08:10 AM: Classes begin

● 10:05 AM: Morning Break
● 10:25 AM: Classes
● 12:20 PM: Lunchtime
● 01:00 PM: Tutorial
● 01:20 PM: Classes
● 03:15 PM: End of Classes
However, school life certainly does not finish with the last class. Creativity, Activity, and Service begins at 15:30 but beyond the
core IBDP requirements, everyone is encouraged to remain on campus and take advantage of the broad range of clubs and
initiatives that enrich UWCM.
If you are living in residence, your meal times are as follows:
● Breakfast: 07:30 AM - 09:00 AM

● Lunch: 12:20 PM - 01:00 PM
● Evening meal: 05:45 PM -07:00 PM
● At weekends, brunch is served from 10.00 AM - 11.30 AM (though this can change depending on community
activities)
Swap Shop
The UWC Maastricht Swap Shop is a place where sustainability meets fashion. Although called “swap shop” it is not entirely
about swapping, rather selling donated clothes (from previous students, UWC community, etc) for a really low price (50 cents)!
This way everyone can afford to buy whatever she or he needs and wants (Yes! There’s also clothing for men!). You can find
plenty of clothes and shoes for all seasons, a great variety of jewelry, a lot of useful stationery items for school, a collection of
lunch boxes, a box full of DVDs, towels, bed linens and a lot more! And what is more - the money raised is used to support
different student projects!
UWC MAASTRICHT 13
3. LEARNING TO LIVE RESPONSIBLY & COMMUNITY

EXPECTATIONS
“I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies, for the hardest victory is over self.”
Aristotle
Life at UWCM is about:
● Learning to take responsibility for your own development.

● Learning to take responsibility for the development of others.
We want UWCM to be a safe, secure, healthy and respectful place where all members of the community abide by the UWC
Code of Conduct and the laws of The Netherlands, both in action and spirit. The following information summarises the policies
which help guide us towards successfully understanding and living by the UWC Code of Conduct.
Please note, that significant breaches of these rules may result in dismissal from UWC Maastricht.
RESPECT -- THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE THAT GUIDES ALL OF OUR RULES AND
EXPECTATIONS
At UWCM, we ask all of our students to demonstrate Respect in the following areas:
 Respect Yourself
o Be honest at all times.
o Give your best effort.
o Attempt to meet all your commitments.
o Be honest,this includes all elements of academic honesty
 Respect Others
o Support others, do not put them down. We are an inclusive school and believe every member of our
community has value.
o Do not use profanity or blaspheme.
o Do not take anything that is not yours without permission. This is stealing, regardless of the value of the
item.
o When in common spaces such as the Mensa or the Atrium, be aware that performances and meetings may
be going on and do not interrupt them.
o Carry out the requests of the adults who work at the school.
 Respect Our School

o Clean up after yourself.
o Treat even the most common school object with care.
o Inside and out of school, do your best to represent the values of our school.
Discipline and Levels of Consequences
Our expectation is that if students follow the Respect Principle above, then there will be minimal need for disciplinary
consequences. However, we realize that mistakes in judgment will occur. When they do, they will be handled within the
following framework:
Level of Concern Adults Involved** Possible Consequences***
Basic Tutor Discussion with Students to try and stop problem

Responding to incidents Classroom Teacher behavior
Resident Mentor Verbal Warning
Parent Contact, if necessary
Intermediate HoY Letter of Warning placed in Student record

Responding to Patterns or to Serious Head of Residential Life Assignment to Friday Support
Incidents* Assignment of Compensatory Tasks
Parent Contact
Parent Meeting
(via skype for Residential students)
UWC MAASTRICHT 14
National Committee Contact

(for Residential Students)
Restriction of Activity
Significant DoS Internal Suspension (1 day)

Behavior or choices are threatening a External Suspension (1 day)
student’s place at UWCM. External Suspension (2 to 5 days)
The actions are such that they may be
reported to external agencies --i.e. Probation
colleges and universities
Most Significant Head of College Expulsion

At this point, the school feels that UWCM
is not an appropriate placement for the
student.
● The difference between an incident and a serious incident involves the type of behavior and its impact on others.
Situations that involve physical violence, harassment, disrespect or drugs and alcohol are typically classified as
Serious Incidents.
**The adults involved at the next level will be informed of activity in the prior level. For example, if the HoY is responding to a
situation, the Director of Studies will be informed.
***Each level of the framework includes the options from the previous levels.
Other Rules that involve living in a broader community
Drugs
Despite its reputation, The Netherlands has strict laws in relation to the purchase, possession and consumption of drugs. The
UWCM Drugs Policy is designed to allow you to live as an effective, considerate and responsible member of our community
and to make sure you do not step outside the country’s laws.
The college does not tolerate:
● The consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages on campus or during school activities.

● Being in a drunken state while on campus or during school-activities.
● Smoking tobacco.
● Deliberate inhalation of solvents.
● Possession of drug-related equipment such as syringes (unless prescribed for medical reasons and with the
knowledge of the College staff).
● Possession, use, or being under the influence of drugs prohibited in accordance with Dutch law.
● Being under the influence of drugs, except for medical reasons.
Alcohol Consumption and Possession

If you are over 18 you do have the privilege of drinking beer and wine in moderation in licensed bars and restaurants, as long
as you are sensitive about the fact that your actions do not create peer pressure either directly or indirectly for other community
members. Any other alcoholic drink, buying any alcohol in stores, and drinking alcohol outside of licensed establishments
(including drinking or possession of any kind of alcohol in residences) is strictly forbidden. If you are found breaking this policy,
the privilege to drink beer and wine in moderation will be withdrawn. Breaches of the policy may result in suspension and/or
expulsion from the school.
Smoking
Smoking on or within sight of the campus, or during school activities, is forbidden. We are all responsible for setting the best
possible example to one another when it comes to making healthy choices, especially because our community comprises of
students from kindergarten age upwards. Choosing to adhere to this policy is choosing to help the community make the right
decisions now and in later life. If you are found to be smoking, and are unresponsive to any suggestions made to help stop this
habit, parents or guardians and national committees will be informed.
Violence, Theft, Anti-Social Behavior and Willfully Endangering others

Students who use physical force towards others, who become involved in anti-social behavior such as theft or hazing, or who
act willfully in a way that endangers the health and safety of another, may be asked to leave the school. Behavior that
threatens, ridicules or humiliates another person will not be tolerated - even if the target of the behavior says it is “okay” to do
so.
UWC MAASTRICHT 15
Sharing a Room, a House and a Campus

Learning to share is the key skill that residential students have to learn and refine.
Unlike some other UWCs, UWCM consists of different sections of student body. Hence, residential students have to share
common spaces, like the Mensa and the school building, with our non-residential community. In the residence, you will share a
floor, common room, study room and a small kitchen with 23 other students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Each
living unit consists of two rooms connected to a bathroom and toilet. Each room accommodates four students who are chosen
deliberately to represent diversity in terms of race, culture, nationality and socio-economic background.
Depending on our student numbers, it is possible to have a mixed sex floor in a Residence. The mixed sex floor contains single
sex living units and mixed common areas. Therefore, it is important that students who make an informed choice to live on a
mixed sex floor should be especially sensitive to the art of sharing the floor so that they respect the needs of all students on the
floor.
Attendance and Full Engagement

You are expected to participate in all aspects of school life:
● Classes.
● Services.
● Activities.
● Student forums.
● Life skills sessions.
● Assemblies.
● Community building events.
● Rota duties for residential students.
● And any other activities considered integral to college life.
Absences and lateness’s are recorded, tracked and may appear on student reports and can impact on how we support
university applications and other recommendations. If absent, you are still expected to complete all assignments to the best of
your ability and submit them by the set deadline.
Towards the end of each year, we will review your positive engagement in school life and the active pursuit of the UWC mission
and values in order to decide whether to continue your place into the second year of diploma studies.
If there is a day when you are not able to attend school due to illness:
● Day students’ parents need to inform the school before 08.00 AM each morning of the illness.
● Residential students need to report to the nurse before 08.00 AM each morning of the illness.
In special circumstances you can apply for a leave of absence. You can find the form and procedures on our website.
ABSENCE FROM COLLEGE

Engagement also means being at school throughout term time. Except for exceptional circumstances, or unless the leave is
connected to the UWC mission and benefits your contribution to the community in some way, you will not be allowed leave
during term time. It is wise for you to check what tasks you need to complete during your holiday before you go away.
Remember, the IBDP is a two year programme so you will likely need to do some work in your holidays, too.
Any anticipated full day of absence from classes needs to be requested a minimum of two weeks in advance by:
 Completing a leave request form with as much detail as possible. For Residential Students, the form is available from
the Heads of Year. For Day Students it is also available on the UWCM website (uwcmaastricht>Publications and
Downloads>Secondary Downloads>Leave of Absence Form).
 Obtaining a signature from their parent/guardian for day students & obtaining a signature from the Residence Mentor
and Personal Tutor for Residential Students.
 Attaching any supporting evidence for the request
 Taking the signed form and supporting documentation to the relevant HoY for final decision.
 An important fact to note is that a less expensive flights is not a valid reason for any absence from school.
If you are a residential student and wish to be away from campus overnight or on weekends you must complete the residence
leave request form and obtain permission in advance from your Residence Mentor.
UWC MAASTRICHT 16
If you require permission to attend university interviews in DP2, you are only allowed time off for the duration of the interview
plus a day before and after it, where applicable, for travel.
Any overnight stay in a location that is neither a registered host family nor connected to an outdoor expedition requires the
written permission of your parent or guardian in addition to the completion of the Residence Leave form and permission of the
Head of Residence.
In order to be eligible for approved absence from class to attend official external activities, such as MUN conferences or as part
of an organising team planning our internal conferences, a student must have a good attendance record in class and CAS
activities. Medical Leave
If you are absent due to illness, the following procedures need to be followed:
Sick before school Sick during school day
Day Students: Parents must email Day Students: If a student falls ill during the day, they should
studentabsences@uwcmaastricht.nl or ring 043 2410 412 go to reception. Students are free to consult with the school
before Period 1 (8:10) informing of the absence. If the period of nurse during school hours but if they are in need of returning
absence is uncertain they should continue to mail on home, they should ensure that they contact a parent or
subsequent mornings until the period of absence is known. guardian before setting off and that they are fit enough to leave
Parents should also copy the tutor into the mail for information safely. This can be done on reception.
only.
Residential Students: Students must report to the school Residential Students: If a student falls ill during the day, they
nurse between 7:45 - 9:15 in her office. The nurse will advise should go to Reception, who will contact the school nurse who
on treatment and whether attending classes is appropriate. If will advise on the appropriate action. If the Nurse is not
the student fails to report to the nurse, the absence is marked available, reception will contact the residence mentor.
as unauthorised.
Within reason, you should aim to attend classes. Paracetamol is available at reception and drinking water is available in the
atrium.
The school nurse is present from 07.45 AM - 03.30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and 07.45 AM - 12.00 PM on
Wednesday. Medical leave must be authorised by the school nurse otherwise it will be marked as unauthorised absence.
UNAUTHORISED ABSENCE--DP
If you do not follow the absence procedures, your days will be classified as unauthorised. Regular class attendance is a
fundamental expectation of the school for all students and also a legal requirement in the Netherlands. Unauthorised absences
impact not only an individual student’s learning, but also the teacher’s ability to plan and deliver instruction, and therefore other
students in the class.
UWCM is a state funded school and we have an obligation to the local authorities to ensure that their funding is being used in
the correct way. This means that we will need to take action if a student begins to accumulate unauthorised leave. The
following table shows the school’s response to unauthorised absences per term:
TABLE OF ATTENDANCE BANDS AND ACTIONS TAKEN IN RESPONSE TO UNAUTHORISED

ABSENCE IN A GIVEN TERM:
Number of unauthorised absences (numbers Actions taken in response to unauthorised absences

refer to individual 55 minute lesson slots)
5 Lesson slots Meeting with the tutor.
10 Lesson slots Meeting with Head of Year and Letter of Warning to the student file.
Assignment to Friday Support.
18 Lesson slots Meeting with the Director of Secondary. Letter of Warning to parents and
National Committee (for residential students) . Assignment to Friday
Support.
25 Lesson slots Possibility of One Day In-School Suspension or Probation.

Note: Suspension and Probation are reported to Colleges and
Universities on some application forms.
UWC MAASTRICHT 17
4. ACADEMIC HONESTY
All DP students will receive the Academic Honesty Policy, which guides UWCM’s education and expectations in this area. It is
also available in ManageBac and on the school website. As an IBDP learner and UWC student, you are expected to be
principled and act with integrity and honesty. As learners, we all discuss academic courses with each other. Working together is
valuable for developing understanding. Working together with integrity and honesty, however, means that we do not present
other people’s work as our own.
When we study, we generate our own ideas. And these ideas come to us because we learn from other people. Good students
research ideas and use quotations or ideas from experts and, importantly, good students also acknowledge from whom they
have learnt.
Presenting other people’s work as your own could result in you failing your IBDP, affect the support we can give to your
university applications and even result in you losing your place at UWCM.
If you are uncertain about what academic honesty really is, this guide will help:
● Plagiarism is when you:

○ Copy somebody else’s work and pretend it is your own (this could be a classmate, a published author, a
website etc. and includes pictures, maps etc.).
○ Fail to use correct referencing when you quote or paraphrase other people’s ideas.
● Collusion is when you:
○ Allow another student to use your work as if it is their own.
○ Work as a pair, or more, to produce a piece of work which needs to be completed and assessed as an
individual assignment.
Remember:
○ If you help another student commit an act of academic dishonesty, you are as guilty as the student
committing the offence. A student can be put under a great deal of peer pressure to hand over work to
another student, but must say “NO”. Putting students under pressure to hand over their work is bullying,
and UWC Maastricht will not tolerate bullying.
○ You are allowed to work with friends and family to help you to understand a topic. This is called
collaboration. However, your final assignment has to be the result of your own work.
● Cheating in tests and examinations is when you:
○ Take unauthorized technology or study materials (for example, notes) into the examination.
○ Communicate with another student during a test or examination.
○ Copy another student’s work during the examination.
○ Changing answers after the marked test has been returned.
Responsibility for Academic Honesty
● You are responsible for making sure that your work is your own and that you reference any research correctly. If you
are ever uncertain, ask your subject teacher or the DP Coordinator for help.
● Teachers are responsible for teaching you the importance of referencing and showing you how to reference correctly.
● IB Diploma examiners are responsible for reporting any suspected plagiarism, collusion or cheating in assessments
and examinations.
○ The IB randomly checks candidates’ work using a web-based plagiarism detection system.
○ When it is clear that a student has plagiarized, no grade is awarded for that assignment.
○ This will affect your overall grade and can also result in you losing your diploma.
UWC MAASTRICHT 18
5. LEARNING THROUGH THE INTERNATIONAL

BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (IBDP)
“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” ― C.G. Jung
Like all UWCs, UWC Maastricht offers the two year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) as its terminal
degree.
Why study the IBDP?

This is how the International Baccalaureate organisation describes the IBDP programme
(http://www.ibo.org/globalassets/publications/become-an-ib-school/ibdp_en.pdf). When you read these points, you will
understand why the IBDP is studied at UWC:
● ‘We challenge students to excel in their studies and in their personal growth.’
● ‘We aim to inspire a quest for learning throughout life that is marked by enthusiasm and empathy.’
● ‘The IB aspires to help schools’:
○ ‘develop well-rounded students’
○ develop students ‘with character’
○ develop students ‘who respond to challenges with optimism and an open mind’
○ develop students who ‘are confident in their own identities’
○ develop students who ‘make ethical decisions’
○ develop students who ‘join with others in celebrating our common humanity’
○ and develop students who ‘are prepared to apply what they learn in real-world, complex and unpredictable
situations’
The IBDP is a very well respected qualification:
● It is accepted as an entrance qualification by universities around the world

● It offers subject specialisation (higher level subjects) and subject breadth (higher and standard level subjects
combined)
What makes an IBDP programme?
● All students study six subjects (this is called your subject package)
● Three subjects are studied at higher level (HL, subject specialisations) and three are studied at standard level (SL,
offering breadth to the programme).
● The subjects are chosen from five to six different subject groups:
○ Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
○ Group 2: Language Acquisition
○ Group 3: Individuals and Societies
○ Group 4: Sciences
○ Group 5: Mathematics
○ Group 6: The Arts
 All students also take three core components:
o Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS)
o Theory of Knowledge (ToK)
o Extended Essay (EE)
 The IBDP is a two year programme (this includes work during school breaks and over the summer)
The IB Learner Profile

The IB organisation aims to develop learners who are:
 Inquirers
 Knowledgeable
 Thinkers
 Communicators
 Principled
 Open-minded
 Caring
 Risk-takers
 Balanced
 Reflective
UWC MAASTRICHT 19
More information about the IB can be found at www.ibo.org.
CONSTRUCTING A SUBJECT PACKAGE
To construct your IBDP subject package, you will need to:
● Choose one subject from each of the first 5 IBDP groups.

● And:
○ select either Visual Art or Music from Group 6
○ or a second subject from any of the first four areas.
● In addition, if you possess two first languages:
○ you may study two languages in Group 1 (Studies in Language and Literature) rather than a Group 1 and
Group 2 (Language acquisition) language.
IBDP COURSES OFFERED AT UWC MAASTRICHT
GROUP 1: LANGUAGES AND LITERATURE
Group 1 courses in Language and Literature explore literature, language and the media and focus on:
 Text and language within cultural context
 Critical literacy
 The constructed meaning of language
We offer Group 1 Language and Literature in:

 English
 Dutch
 Spanish
 Arabic
 French
 Chinese
Group 1 courses in Literature explore literary texts only. 10 literary works are studied in SL and 13 literary works in HL.
Explored are:
-works in translation
-different genres
-works in context
We offer Group 1 Literature courses in:

-English
-Italian
German
All Group 1 courses are for students who are native or advanced language learners and therefore are able to listen to, read,
understand and analyse unadapted literary (and non-literary) language.
In addition it is possible to study Self-Taught Literature in Group 1. Self-Taught Literature is available to everyone whose
mother tongue or strongest language is not English, Dutch, Spanish, Arabic, French, Chinese Italian or German. As a Self-
Taught student, you will:
 Attend a World Literature class in your first year. This will:
o Help you to develop analytical skills
o Help introduce the skills you need to study literature in your first language
 Attend regular meetings with the Mother Tongue Coordinator, and if possible, meet a language tutor of your mother
tongue to guide you through the process.
Every Group 1 Language and Literature course follows the same curriculum and, therefore, uses the same assessment
criteria. The texts will be different in each language but the expectations are identical. The same goes for all Literature courses.
Similarly, if you study Self-Taught you will do the same literature course as other self-taught candidates. The books and texts
studied will of course be different for each language, but the assessments and the assessment criteria are exactly the same.
All Group 1 Language teachers work collaboratively in the Group 1 Department to ensure that expectations are the same in
every language.
UWC MAASTRICHT 20
Taught courses = Language and Literature SL or HL in English, Dutch, Spanish, Arabic, French and Chinese; Literature in
talian and German.
Self-taught = Literature SL, in all other IB approved languages.
GROUP 2: LANGUAGE ACQUISITION
Three levels of Group 2 language acquisition courses are offered at UWCM:
 Dutch, English, French, or Spanish HL/SL

 or Spanish Ab Initio.
HL/SL
HL/SL courses are designed for students with previous knowledge of the language studied. Students can study Dutch, English,
French, or Spanish at higher or standard level. The main focus is on:
 language acquisition
 intercultural understanding
To develop language skills students investigate a variety of topics through various media.
HL level students study two works of literature and have one more lesson per week.
Like Group 1 languages, the books and texts studied will of course be different for each language, but the assessments and the
assessment criteria are exactly the same.
Language Ab Initio
Language Ab Initio courses are designed for students who want to learn a new language or have had very little exposure to the
language studied at Ab Initio. We offer Spanish Ab Initio as a standard level course. The main focus is based on three themes:
 individual and society

 Leisure and work
 Urban and rural environment
At the end of the course students should be able to interact appropriately in everyday situations.
Students can follow this course only at SL.
English: Language acquisition

English is the language of instruction at UWCM. To ensure that the English language needs of our students are identified and
met, we offer differentiated levels of support within the Group 2 English Language Acquisition courses.
At the beginning of the Diploma Programme, all students take a diagnostic English test. The purposes of this test are for the
school:
 To understand the entry-level of proficiency for all students

 To gain an understanding of the overall level of proficiency of the whole year group
 To identify individual language needs early
 To support students in their choice of a viable subject package by making recommendations as to the most beneficial
language option
Students with little or no proficiency in English will be placed in the DP English SL (English Language Learning, ELL) level of
study. In ELL:
 Specific language needs will be identified and supported

 Students will follow the course syllabus with additional, language support for other subjects.
When ready, these students will move into the core English SL group. Some student may also progress into English HL Student
and teacher will discuss the decision to move to HL as it is important that the student is ready to meet the HL language
demands.
UWC MAASTRICHT 21
GROUP 3: INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETIES
“How can there be peace without people understanding each other, and how can this be if they don’t know each other” Lester
B. Pearson, Nobel Peace Prize Winner.
Individuals and Societies’ courses are at the heart of the UWC values. They help us understand the lives of people around the
world today and the legacy of their past.
UWC Maastricht offers the following Individuals and Societies courses:
 Economics
 Environmental Systems and Societies (A Group 3&4 interdisciplinary course)
 Geography
 Global Politics
 History
 World Arts and Cultures
The courses cover a rich variety of topics and focus on developing investigative, analytical and critical thinking skills.
Economics:
"Money is flat, the world is round" (Source: Loesje)
Economics studies human behavior within a globalising world where resources are limited and our needs are infinite. We try to
address questions such as:
 How can we increase our wellbeing without harming the environment?

 What can we do to fight unemployment and inflation?
 How can we promote economic development? Should we give aid to developing countries or should we allow them to
trade fairly?
The course teaches you to think like an economist and to look critically at the world around us. Once you start the course, your
view on economic policies, current events and election campaigns will never be the same.
Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS): Also available as a Group 4 course.

ESS is an interdisciplinary Group 3 and 4 course that is offered only at standard level (SL). It is a complex course, requiring a
diverse set of skills. The course involves:
 Scientific exploration of environmental systems in:

o their structure and function
o And in the exploration of cultural, economic, ethical, political, and social interactions of societies with the
environment.
ESS allows the students to make informed decisions by providing an understanding of the interrelationships between
environmental systems and societies.
ESS takes a holistic approach and encompasses a wide range of subjects, mainly including:
 Biology
 Chemistry
 Economics
 Geography
 Politics
Geography
Geography is everywhere. It is the study of the earth’s natural and human features and their interactions. Geography is diverse
and evolving because the earth and the ways that we live on it are always changing. Geography bridges social sciences, the
humanities and physical science in order to examine and try to explain space, place, and environment from local to global
scales.
The course covers a broad range of topics and concepts including:
 Demographics
 Sustainability
UWC MAASTRICHT 22
 Tourism,
 Globalisation.
There is a particular focus on globalisation because, as the planet becomes smaller due to globalisation, Geography becomes
increasingly important and relevant in helping us understand our place in the world.
Global Politics
The 21st century is characterized by rapid change and increasing interconnectedness. This fact:
 Impacts on individuals and societies in unprecedented ways

 And creates complex global political challenges
Global Politics is an exciting, dynamic subject that draws on a variety of disciplines in the social sciences and humanities,
reflecting the complex nature of many contemporary political issues.
The Diploma Programme Global Politics course explores fundamental political concepts in a range of contexts. The concepts
will include:
 Power
 Equality
 Sustainability
 Peace
Global Politics includes traditional assessments such as source analysis and evaluation, and essay writing but it also uses new
forms of assessment such as an engagement activity, in which students actively engage with a political issue. In addition, at
Higher Level there is a specific focus on communicating our understanding of Global Politics through presentations.
History
“One individual can begin a movement that turns the tide of history. Martin Luther King in the civil rights movement, Mohandas
Ganhi in India, Nelson Mandela in South Africa are examples of people standing up with courage and non-violence to bring
about needed changes.” Jack Canfield
History is not only about interesting people, places and events from the past. History encourages:
 Critical thinking
 Open-mindedness
By developing these qualities, you also develop an understanding of the past, which leads to a deeper understanding of the
nature of humans and of the world today.
DP History will give you the tools to develop analytical and evaluative skills. At UWCM we focus on the twentieth century from
different viewpoints. We use a variety of case studies to compare and contrast historical accounts from different periods and
perspectives. Once we are able to use the skills necessary for historical study, we can apply them to our own stories as well as
stories from the past. History can be personal. History can be abstract. But History is always fascinating!
Syllabus outline
Paper 1 Prescribed subjects
 Rights and protest: the US Civil Rights Movement and the campaign against Apartheid in South Africa
Paper 2 World history topics (two to be studied)
 Authoritarian states (20th century)

 Causes and effects of 20th-century wars
HL options: Depth studies (one to be studied)
 History of Europe (HL only)
World Arts and Cultures

World Arts and Cultures allows you to study works of art and other cultural phenomena from many different cultures so that you
are able to:
UWC MAASTRICHT 23
 Appreciate the artifacts in their own right

 And understand the artifacts as manifestations of wider cultural and social life.
You are encouraged to observe, analyse and ponder cultural similarities and differences and to understand the role of cultural
artefacts in shaping and reflecting aspects of cultural identity.
In the first year, you undertake a comparative analysis of a selected list of world cultures, including:
 Benin Africa
 Renaissance Italy
 and Tokugawa Japan
In the second year, you will focus on the cultural heritage of the region surrounding Maastricht and in particular the ‘idea’ of
Europe through time and space.
World Arts and Cultures is offered at Standard Level only.
GROUP 4: SCIENCES
We offer five Group 4 Science subjects at diploma level:
 Biology
 Chemistry
 Design Technology (DT)
 Environmental Systems and Societies (A Group 3&4 interdisciplinary course)
 Physics
There is an emphasis on experimental work and, where possible, new ideas are taught through practical work. You can take a
SL Science subject regardless of your previous experience. Ideally, if you take an HL Science course, you should have recent
experience of this subject and feel confident in the basics of the subject.
Biology
Biologists attempt to understand the living world at all levels using many different approaches and techniques. At one end of the
scale is the cell, its molecular construction and complex metabolic reactions. At the other end of the scale biologists investigate
the interactions that make whole ecosystems function. When you study Biology, you will explore these basic basic biological
concepts:
 The structure and function of organisms,

 Diversity of life
 Equilibrium within systems
 Evolution.
An emphasis is placed on human biology.
Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties and how matter can be changed into different materials by chemical reactions.
DP Chemistry allows you to develop traditional practical skills and techniques and increase your ability to use mathematics, the
language of science. It also allows you to develop interpersonal skills, and digital technology skills, which are essential in
scientific endeavour and are important life-enhancing, transferable skills.
For the core content of the course, we study three broad areas of chemistry:
 Physical Chemistry
 Organic Chemistry
 Inorganic Chemistry
And as an option, we study:
 Human Biochemistry.
UWC MAASTRICHT 24
Design Technology (DT)

Are you are creative? Do you like making things and exploring how products around you work? If so, Design Technology will be
an interesting subject choice for you.
DT links innovation and creativity; throughout the course, varied project work offers you the opportunity to explore and create
commercial ideas and have a means to prototype, test and evaluate their possibilities and limitations. The course always keeps
the end user in focus, making this a very human centred subject.
DT introduces the six core design topics of:
 Ergonomics
 Resources management
 Modelling, raw materials to final production
 Innovation in design
 Classic design.
If you choose HL you will also study:
 User centred design

 Sustainability
 Innovation and marketing
 Commercial production
Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS): Also available as a Group 3 course.

For a description of ESS, look at the Group 3 Individuals and Societies section. This course can be taken as both a Group 3
and a Group 4 course
Physics
Physics offers an opportunity to learn problem solving and logical thinking skills through both theoretical and practical study of
different phenomena and systems. Topics covered include:
 Classical mechanics
 Thermal physics
 Waves
 Electromagnetism
 Atomic and nuclear physics
 Energy, power and climate change
 And one optional topic chosen from:
o Relativity
o Engineering Physics
o Imaging
o Astrophysics
If you are thinking of studying HL Physics, a background knowledge is greatly beneficial. Both Standard and Higher level
students should have a good command of basic mathematical concepts/topics such as:
 Vectors
 Trigonometry
 Solving equations
GROUP 5: MATHEMATICS
Mathematics is taught at three different levels:
 Mathematics HL
 Mathematics SL
 Mathematics Studies SL
Mathematics HL and Mathematics SL focus on six core topics:
1. Algebra
2. Functions and equations
3. Circular functions and trigonometry
UWC MAASTRICHT 25
4. Vectors
5. Statistics and probability
6. Calculus
Mathematics Studies (SL) explores seven topics:

1. Number and Algebra
2. Descriptive statistics
3. Logic, sets and probability
4. Statistical applications
5. Geometry and trigonometry
6. Mathematical models
7. Introduction to differential calculus
All levels of Mathematics will help you develop skills in:
 Problem solving
 Analytical thinking
 Critical thinking
 Using a Graphic Display Calculator effectively
Mathematics HL
If you have an extensive background in maths, are competent in a range of analytical and critical mathematical skills, and plan
to study in maths-intensive fields such as engineering or physics, Mathematics HL is for you. At HL you will study the six core
topics in greater depth and study one of the following optional topics:
 Statistics and Probabilities

 Sets, Relations and Group
 Calculus
 Discrete Mathematics
Mathematics SL
If you are proficient in basic mathematical concepts, particularly algebra, and have the skills to apply simple mathematical
techniques correctly, then Mathematics SL is the course for you. The Mathematics SL course focuses on the six core topics,
with no extra optional topics. This course prepares students for a broad variety of university studies, including biology,
chemistry, and business. The majority of students select this course.
Mathematics Studies (SL)

This course is designed to be accessible to students from a broad range of mathematical backgrounds. Mathematical Studies
SL prepares students for careers in social sciences, humanities, languages, and arts. The core topics of Mathematical Studies
SL differ from those of Mathematics SL and Mathematics HL, with an emphasis on concrete applications and statistics.
GROUP 6: THE ARTS
Visual Arts
The IB Diploma Programme visual arts course encourages you to challenge your own creative and cultural expectations and
boundaries. It is a thought-provoking course in which you will develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking,
while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers. You will be encouraged to:
● Question all preconceived notions of art and personal ability

● Trust your creative instincts
● Express your ideas and feelings through the controlled use of a broad range of materials and techniques
● Investigate and relate to all the evolutionary processes that are inherent in the development of good design
● Articulate issues relating to the work of other artists from a variety of cultures, past and present
The course follows this structure:
● In DP1:
○ We adopt a thematic approach studying themes such as ‘the body’ or ‘close-ups’. The chosen theme is
used to explore new materials and processes and refine those that you have already learnt. Drawing and
primary source observation is a central part of every unit.
● In DP2:
UWC MAASTRICHT 26
○ You are required to build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in the first year with greater
depth of study. You are expected to work in a more independent way. You will be expected to produce a
personal investigation in which you develop a portfolio of work in response to an idea, issue, concept or
theme of your choosing.
Music
Studying Music at IBDP level fosters curiosity and openness to both familiar and unfamiliar musical worlds. You will learn to
hear relationships of pitch in sound, pattern in rhythm and unfolding sonic structures. You will also explore the similarities,
differences and links in music from within your own culture and that of others across time. Engaged musical study allows
exploration and discovery of relationships between lived human experience and specific sound combinations and technologies,
which informs us about the world around us.
Music is offered at SL and HL. Both courses contain a combination of analytical skills, performance skills and creative skills.
Students with no previous music experience often find IB Music to be challenging as it presupposes the ability to read music.
There are many other ways to explore and perform music at UWCM within the Co-curricular program.
Music School:
For all students, including those students who do not select music as part of their subject package, it is possible to attend
lessons at our Music School (http://www.uwcm.nl/education/Music-School)
Currently the following courses are offered at the UWCM Music School:
 Guitar
 Vocals (classical/pop/Jazz)
 Musical Theatre (individual lessons/group lessons)
 Piano (classical)
 Piano (jazz)
 Drums
 Cello
Additional courses can be offered, based on students' interest and availability of instrumental teachers.
The costs for an individual lesson are € 17,50 per 30 minutes.
Attending lesson at the UWCM Music School is free for those residential students who selected the IBDP Music course as part
of their subject package.
For further information regarding the IBDP Music course or the Music School, please contact:
Ludo Roijen ( l.roijen@uwcmaastricht.nl)
Film
The creation, presentation and study of film requires courage, passion and curiosity: courage to create individually and as part
of a team, to explore ideas through action and harness the imagination, and to experiment; passion to communicate and to act
communally, and to research and formulate ideas eloquently; curiosity about self and others and the world, about different
traditions, techniques and knowledge, about the past and the future, and about the limitless possibilities of human expression
through the art form.
At the core of the IB film course lies a concern with clarity of understanding, critical thinking, reflective analysis, effective
involvement and imaginative synthesis that is achieved through practical engagement in the art and craft of film.
Features of the curriculum and assessment model:
 Available at standard (SL) and higher levels (HL).

 Students are assessed both externally and internally.
 External assessment consists of a) the Independent study (rationale, script and list of sources for a short
documentary production on an aspect of film theory and/or film history, based on particular films from more than
one country), and b) the Presentation (an oral presentation of a detailed critical analysis of a continuous extract.
from a prescribed film)
 Internal assessment consists of the Production portfolio (a student’s completed film project and its
accompanying documentation (at HL includes a trailer).
UWC MAASTRICHT 27
SUBJECT ASSESSMENT IN ALL IBDP SUBJECTS
Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
External Assessment 1 Coursework: You write it during your time as a student; it is External Assessment 2 Exams: You write it during the Official
marked by your teachers IB May Examinations; it is marked by the IB
Lang/Lit HL Written Task Written Task 2= 1x Individual oral 2x Further oral Paper 1 2hrs Paper 2 2hrs xxx
1= Formal task commentary activity Comparative Essay
Creative task 2x (about one of the (about a text textual analysis about at least 2
2x three books of studied in part 1, books from part 3
part 4) part 2)
Lang/Lit SL Written Task xxx 1x Individual oral 2x Further oral Paper 1 Paper 2 xxx
1= commentary activity 1,5 hrs 1,5 hrs Essay
Creative task (about one of the (about a text Commentary on about the two
3x two books from studied in part 1, one text books from part 3
part 4) part 2)
School-Supported Please note that all SSST work is Written Individual oral Individual oral Paper 1 Paper 2
Self-Taught assessed externally by IB moderators Assignment commentary presentation 1.5 hours 1.5 hours
(SSST) x1 Literary analysis literary analysis of
Lit SL only a specific work
Group 2: Language Acquisition
Lang B HL Written Assignment Individual Oral Interactive Oral Paper 1 Reading Paper 2 Writing xxx
Creative Writing based on Literature 1.5 hrs Two texts
1.5 hrs
Lang B SL Written Assignment based on 3 texts Individual Oral Interactive Oral Paper 1 Reading Paper 2 Writing xxx
1.5 hrs 1.5 hrs
Ab Initio SL Written Assignment Individual Oral Paper 1 Reading Paper 2 xxx

(done in the students own time) Based on a picture and the Written 1.5 hours Writing
Assignment 2 texts
1hou
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
Portfolio of 3 commentaries, based on sections of the Paper 1 (1 h 30 Paper 2 (1 h 30 Paper 3 (1 h)

Economics HL syllabus and extracts from news media. m) m) HL extension
Max 750 words x 3 Extended Data response paper
response paper paper
Portfolio of 3 commentaries, based on sections of the Paper 1 (1 30 m) Paper 2 (1 30 m) xxx

Economics SL syllabus and extracts from news media. Extended Data response
Max 750 words x 3 response paper paper
ESS SL See Group 4 for info on ESS
Geography HL Written report based on fieldwork. Maximum 2,500 words Paper 1 (1 h 30 Paper 2 (2 hours) Paper 3 (1 hour)
m) Syllabus content: Syllabus content:
Syllabus content: Three optional Higher level
Core theme themes extension
Geography SL Written report based on fieldwork. Maximum 2,500 words Paper 1 (1 h 30 Paper 2 (1 h 20 xxx
m) m)
Syllabus content: Syllabus content:
Core theme Two optional
themes
Global Politics HL Engagement activity Written report HL extension: global political Paper 1 (1 h 15 Paper 2 (2 h 45 xxx
(2,000-words on a political issue challenges. 2 video recorded oral min) min)
explored through engagement and presentations (10 minutes each) on 2 Stimulus-based, Essay based
research case studies short answer and paper
structured
questions
Global Politics SL Engagement activity Written report (2,000-words on a political issue explored Paper 1 (1 h 15 Paper 2 (1 h 45 xxx
through engagement and research min) min)
Stimulus-based, Essay based
short answer and paper
structured
questions
UWC MAASTRICHT 28
History HL A historical investigation into a topic of Student’s choice (1,500 ‑ 2,000 words) Paper 1 (1 h) Paper 2 (1 h 30 Paper 3 (2 h 30
(May 2016) Short m) Extended m)
answer/structured response Extended
questions questions response
questions
History SL A historical investigation into a topic of Student’s choice (1,500 ‑ 2,000 words) Paper 1 (1 hour) Paper 2 (1 hour xxx
(May 2016) Short 30 min)
answer/structured Extended-
questions response
questions
History HL (May A historical investigation into a topic of Student’s choice (2200 words). Paper 1 (1 hour) Paper 2 (1 hour Paper 3 (2 hours
2017) Source based 30 minutes) 30 minutes)
paper. Essay based Essay based
paper paper
History SL (May A historical investigation into a topic of Student’s choice (2200 words). Paper 1 (1 hour) Paper 2 (1 hour xxx
2017) Source-based 30 minutes)
paper. Essay based
paper.
World Arts and Written report based on fieldwork. (2000 words) Paper1 (1 hour) Paper 2 ( 1 hour) xxx
Cultures SL Short answer Essay based
questions. paper.
Group 4: Sciences
Biology HL Internal Assessment. 1 investigation: group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1. multiple paper 2 paper 3 option
personal engagement, exploration, students together) choice 1 hour Structured paper and N.O.S (
analysis, evaluation, communication. questions 2 1/4 science methods)
about 2,000 words. hours 1 ¼ hours)
Biology SL Internal Assessment. 1 investigation: group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1 multiple paper 2 option paper and
personal engagement, exploration, students together) choice 45 minutes Structured N.O.S ( science
analysis, evaluation, communication. questions 1 1/4 methods) 1 hour
about 2,000 words. hours
Chemistry HL Internal Assessment. 1 investigation: group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1. multiple paper 2 paper 3 option
Chemistry SL Internal Assessment. 1 investigation: group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1 multiple paper 2 paper 3 option
personal engagement, exploration, students together) choice 45 minutes Structured paper and N.O.S (
about 2,000 words. hours 1 hour
DT HL IA assessment 40% of marks based group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1 multiple paper 2 Data paper 3 structured
on one individual design project. students together) choice 1hr. based structured questions.
A: analysis of design opportunity. 20% of final questions 1.5 1.5 hours.
B: conceptual design. marks. hours. 20% of final
C: development of a detailed design. 20% of final marks.
D: testing and evaluation. marks.
E: commercial production.
F: marketing strategies.
DT SL IA assessment 40% of marks based group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1 multiple paper 2 xxx
on one individual design project. students together) choice 45 Structured
A: analysis of design opportunity. minutes. questions 1.5
B: conceptual design. 30% of final hours.
C: development of a detailed design. marks. 30% of final
D: testing and evaluation. marks.
ESS SL IA assessment - 24%. Many group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1 Paper 2 xxx
opportunities to complete students together) 1 hour. Short 2 hours
assessments - use best marks structured Resource based
questions questions. Two
essay questions -
each 20 marks
Physics HL Internal Assessment. 1 investigation: group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1. multiple paper 2 paper 3 option
Physics SL Internal Assessment. 1 investigation: group 4 project 1 day (all group 4 paper 1 multiple paper 2 paper 3 option
personal engagement, exploration, students together) choice 45 Structured paper and N.O.S (
analysis, evaluation, communication. minutes. questions 1 1/4 science methods)
about 2,000 words. hours 1 hour
Group 5: Mathematics
UWC MAASTRICHT 29
Maths HL Internal Assessment 20% of the final mark Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3
Exploration 30% of the final 30% of the final 20% of the final
investigation, modeling: communication, mathematical presentation, personal mark mark mark
engagement, reflection, use of mathematics. about 12 pages. (2 h) Without (2 h) With GDC (1h) With GDC
GDC SectionA approximately 5
approximately 10 extended
SectionA short response response
approximately 10 questions questions
short response Section B
questions 5 extended
Section B response
5 extended questions
response
questions
Maths SL Internal Assessment Paper 1 Paper 2 xxx

Exploration 20% of the final mark 40% of the final 40% of the final
investigation, modeling: communication, mathematical presentation, personal mark (1h:30) mark
engagement, reflection, use of mathematics. about 12 pages. Without GDC (1h:30) With GDC
SectionA SectionA
approx 7 short approx 7 short
response response
questions questions
Section B Section B
3 extended 3 extended
response response
questions questions
Maths Studies Project 20% of the final mark investigation, plan, communication, analysis and Paper 1 Paper 2 xxx
results, validity, mathematical process, use of Technology 40% of the final 40% of the final
mark mark
(1h:30) (1h:30) With GDC
Without GDC SectionA
SectionA approx 7 short
approx 7 short response
response questions
questions Section B
Section B 3 extended
3 extended response
response questions
questions
Group 6: The Arts
Visual Art HL Part 3: Exhibition; 40% of final mark. External assessment Part 1: 20% External
Internal assessment externally moderated by the IB. Comparative study Students at HL assessment Part
HL students submit a curatorial rationale that does not exceed 700 words. analyse and compare different artworks 2: 40%
HL students submit 8–11 artworks. by different artists. An independent Process portfolio,
HL students submit exhibition text for each selected artwork. critical and contextual investigation HL students
HL students submit 10–15 screens submit 13–25
Plus screens which
HL students submit 3–5 further screens evidence their
which analyse the extent to which their sustained
work has been influenced by the art and experimentation &
artists examined. exploration
throughout the
course.
Visual Art SL Part 3: Exhibition; 40% of final mark. External assessment Part 1: 20% External
Internal assessment externally moderated by the IB. Comparative study Students at SL assessment Part
SL students submit a curatorial rationale that does not exceed 400 words analyse and compare different artworks 2: 40%
SL students submit 4–7 artworks. by different artists. An independent Process portfolio,
SL students submit exhibition text for each selected artwork. critical and contextual investigation SL students
SL students submit 10–15 screenS. submit 9–18
screens screens
which evidence
their sustained
experimentation &
exploration
throughout the
course.
Music HL Internal assessment 50% External External assessment 20%

This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by assessment 30% Musical links investigation
the IB. Listening paper (2 A written media script of no more than
Three pieces of coursework, with recordings and written work. 25% hours 30 minutes) 2,000 words, investigating the significant
Solo performing A recording selected from pieces presented during one or more Five musical musical links between two (or more)
public performance(s) 25% perception pieces from distinct musical cultures.
questions
Music SL Internal assessment 50% External External assessment 20%

This component is internally assessed by the teacher and externally moderated by assessment Musical links investigation A written
the IB at the end of the course. Students choose one of the following options. Listening paper media script of no more than 2,000
Creating (SLC) Two pieces of coursework, with recordings and written work 30% words, investigating the significant
Solo performing (SLS) A recording selected from pieces presented during one or Four musical musical links between two (or more)
more public performance(s), 15 minutes Group performing (SLG) perception pieces from distinct musical cultures
questions
Film HL Internal Assessment 60% External External assessment (20%)

1. Film Portfolio (25%) assessment Comparative Study
a. Portfolio pages (9 pages maximum: 3 pages maximum per film Textual Analysis a. A recorded multimedia comparative
production role) and a list of all sources used. (20%) study (10 minutes max)
b. A film reel (9 minutes maximum: 3 minutes maximum per film Textual analysis b. A list of all sources used
production role, including one completed film). 1,750 words
maximum and a
2. Collaborative Film Project (35%) list of all sources
a. A completed film (7 minutes maximum) used.
b. A project report (2,000 words maximum) and a list of all sources
used
UWC MAASTRICHT 30
Film SL Internal Assessment 40% External External assessment (30%)

Film Portfolio assessment Comparative Study
a. Portfolio pages (9 pages maximum: 3 pages maximum per film production Textual Analysis a. A recorded multimedia comparative
role) and a list of all sources used. (30%) study (10 minutes max)
b. A film reel (9 minutes maximum: 3 minutes maximum per film production role, Textual analysis b. A list of all sources used
including one completed film). 1,750 words
maximum and a
list of all sources
used.
ASSESSMENT
When you study the IBDP you should aim to improve your study skills and subject knowledge but you must also allow yourself
to understand and enjoy every step of your learning journey. You should not worry about what grade other students achieve.
The IB helps you to measure your improvements by using Assessment Criteria in each subject area. The criteria use numbers
to indicate a description of your performance in the task they are assessing. It is useful to look at the assessment criteria when
you write an assignment as they will help guide you. You should also read the description when you receive marked work back
because they will explain what you have achieved. Once you understand your achievement, you can then look at the next
description and work out what you need to do in order to move towards reaching that level. Always feel free to ask your teacher
for advice about how to develop your learning. Teachers will supply you with the assessment criteria but it’s not always easy to
understand the criteria first time so, again, feel free to ask the teacher or your personal tutor for help.
The final IBDP grade for each is graded between 0 & 7. Each grade is accompanied by a Grade Descriptor. The grade
descriptors explain the skills and knowledge you have achieved in each subject. Grade descriptors help teachers explain the
academic requirements of the IB diploma programme to students, report progress and prepare anticipated grades.
ANTICIPATED GRADES
Anticipated grades represent your teacher's informed and professional assessment of your potential achievement. The grade is
based on your work and progress. Assessment is continuous throughout the Diploma programme and will evolve as your
teacher gathers more information about your learner profile (your strengths and weaknesses, your motivation, etc.).
All of these factors inform your anticipated grade:
 Daily classroom contributions (written, oral, practical).

 Sustained effort which results in steady progress.
 Regular attendance which results in full exposure to the curriculum and your understanding of it.
 Achievement in formative and summative assessment tasks (including practice IAs, final copies of IAs, practice
tests, classroom discussions etc.).
 Our estimation of your future development based on our professional experience.
 Adherence to academic honesty which ensures that progress is recognized as your own.
 Your active response to feedback.
These points all demonstrate your motivation, ability and potential to learn, as well as your level of engagement with the full
curriculum; universities ask us to comment on all these areas when we give references.
Anticipated grades will be formulated as required for university applications, typically at the end of October and end of January
of DP2.
You are welcome to approach individual teachers during DP2 to enquire about your anticipated grade in their course. However,
the best indication is your achieved result to date. It is school policy that anticipated grades must be equal to, or greater, than
the cumulative achieved result to date.
Please note:
Because of the nature of the course, anticipated grades are not provided for School-Supported Self-Taught languages. In the
rare event that a university requests an anticipated grade for a self-taught language, we will do our utmost to provide a grade,
providing we have a tutor of the language at our disposal.
UWC MAASTRICHT 31
IB CORE
“When I discover who I am, I’ll be free.” ― Ralph Ellison, Invisible Man
The core of the IBDP is composed of three areas which complement and build on the academic curriculum. Each part is equally
important. You must complete all three components to receive the IB Diploma:
 Theory of Knowledge (ToK)

 The Extended Essay (EE)
 Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS)
Theory of Knowledge (ToK)

Theory of Knowledge explores critical thinking and asks about how we know what we claim to know. You will analyse
knowledge claims, as well as explore knowledge questions and different knowledge frameworks.
Most of the ToK course is completed in the first year when you:
 Explore different ways of knowing.

 Explore areas of knowledge.
 Analyse what is personal knowledge and what is shared knowledge.
In Year two you will complete the ToK assessments. To do this you will:
 Make a presentation.
 Write an essay.
Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay is an integral part of the IB Diploma Programme core together with TOK and CAS. It is your opportunity to
look in greater detail at one of your subject areas. This is an independent research project which begins in January of DP1 and
finishes in November of DP2. The final product is an essay of 4000 words. More details will be presented but the basic EE
process is as follows:
 Chose a subject group.

 Agree on a topic with your supervisor. This must be a specific and narrow topic.
 Begin researching and continue meeting your supervisor.
 Plan your essay before the summer break.
 Write the first draft during the summer.
 Submit the first draft after summer.
 Discuss feedback with your supervisor before completing the final copy.
Remember the EE is an independent research project. It is your responsibility to arrange regular meetings with your supervisor.
CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY AND SERVICE (CAS)
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
CAS and UWC

Full commitment to the CAS programme is central to your successful completion of the IB. It is also central to your contribution
to UWC achieving its mission and values. At UWC Maastricht, we consider your participation, engagement and initiative in
activities equally as valuable as the time and energy you put into academics. CAS provides an important counterbalance to the
academic pressures of the Diploma Programme. A good CAS programme should be challenging and enjoyable. It should also
be a journey of self‑ discovery which allows you to develop personal and interpersonal skills. Your starting point is different
than other students’ so you will have different goals and needs, but the CAS activities will provide profound, life‑ changing
experiences.
The three components of CAS often overlap in activities. Individually they are characterized as follows:
 Creativity: Exploring and extending ideas leading to an original or interpretive
UWC MAASTRICHT 32
product or performance.
● Activity: Physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, complementing
academic work elsewhere in the Diploma Programme.
● Service: Collaborative and reciprocal engagement with the community in
response to an authentic need.
You are encouraged to take initiative and lead activities but it is also just as important to simply participate in activities.
Commitment to full engagement in CAS is crucial to passing your diploma but quality of experience is most important. Advisers
will guide you through the CAS Programme and evaluate your participation and commitment. Advisers will share with and
report your progress to other stakeholders if applicable.
Project Week – obligatory and optional

“To venture causes anxiety, but not to venture is to lose one's self.... And to venture in the highest is precisely to be conscious
of one's self.” ― Søren Kierkegaard
Project Week is an essential part of a UWC education. It gives you the chance to test your skills and knowledge outside the
classroom. Project weeks have a long tradition in the UWC context and are known to be challenging and enriching experiences.
A Project Week is a unique opportunity for personal development and for spreading the UWC mission values outside the UWC
community. Projects can be done independently, in cooperation with organizations with whom we have established ties, or by
forming new projects. Project Weeks are usually planned by a group of 4 to 6 students, last four days and are followed by peer
evaluation and reflection.
Obligatory - Towards the end of your second term in DP1 you will be helped to:
 Design
 Plan
 and Carry out
A local project week which focuses on:
 Providing service to the local community in June (towards the end of the school year).
You must complete a local project week in DP1 in order to pass the CAS requirements of the IBDP at UWCM.
Optional - In addition, you are all encouraged, as DP students, to organize an optional project week during the study breaks
(October, December, Carnival, May). These optional Project Weeks can focus on service as well as creativity, action and
exploration in general. Optional Project Weeks are restricted to a 1000 km travel radius and need to make use of eco-friendly
transport. You also have the opportunity to carry out a home country service project week. You can organize a project, either
individually or in a group, and provide service to your home country community, preferably during the summer holidays.
Documenting your Academic and CAS progress

Throughout the Diploma programme, you will use ManageBac, an online learning management system, to keep track of your
academic work and CAS activities. Teachers will use the ManageBac system to post deadlines, outline tasks, send messages
and share resources. Your CAS adviser and supervisors will also check your reflections, report meetings and provide a
supervisor review.
As a student, you will be expected to:
 Upload summative assessments (such as internal investigations, extended essays, TOK essay etc.) onto the
ManageBac system.
 Check ManageBac for messages, tasks and deadlines from your teachers.
 Upload/enter reflections for CAS.
 Upload Project Week reflections.
 Check for supervisor reviews and messages regarding CAS.
 Enter your exam registration information in DP2.
For more information concerning how to use Managebac, you can refer to the Student ManageBac Guide at
http://help.managebac.com/ (Click on the student tab).
UWC MAASTRICHT 33
6. UNIVERSITY COUNSELLING (UNIVERSITIES)

Choosing a university is about figuring out a good fit. This can be an exciting and overwhelming process. You will have to
consider which of your interests and skills you would like to explore and develop as well as take into consideration finances and
your complete profile. Our university counsellors are here to help and will meet with you individually and through group
presentations.
If you make the most of the opportunities offered by a UWC education, you will find yourself in the privileged position of having
a wide range of college and university choices available to you. Furthermore, there are UWC and international scholarships
available as well as the possibility of funding through the UWC Scholars Program, a needs based fund set up by the American
philanthropist, Shelby Davis (for more information, visit: www.davisuwcscholars.org)
During the two years of the IBDP, you will have the opportunity to interact with representatives from many national and
international colleges and universities who visit UWCM outside of classroom hours to present on different topics such as
‘writing the personal essay’, ‘university in Canada’, ‘financial aid in the US’ as well as on their universities. The Universities
Office coordinates any interviews that might follow these presentations. Both the presentations and interviews will certainly help
you make important application choices more confidently.
University Factors to Consider in planning an IBDP Subject Package:

It is not a problem if you do not know now what you want to study after graduation. The two years at UWCM will be
transformative and your plans are very likely to change. We do understand, however, that you might feel anxious about
choosing a subject package that fits your future study plans. The University Counsellors will be happy to offer advice in this
matter in the beginning of the school year. In addition, the following questions and answers may help you make some
decisions:
 How will my IBDP subject choices affect my university applications?

o Often your subject package choices will not affect your university application.
o Universities in some countries do ask for specific IBDP subjects. This often depends on the country and
which university course you wish to follow (a list with some of the more common examples is included
later).
● What if I do not know what I want to study after IBDP?
○ Don't worry. The IBDP provides the skills necessary for studying a wide range of higher education courses.
○ If you choose a Liberal Arts degree, you can still explore your interests for the first year or two of university
study before you need to specialise.
○ Universities in the UK and Canada allow you to combine subjects through offering major and minor or joint
major degrees so there is a variety of choice.
● What is required for my undergraduate college/university plans?
○ The requirements vary by institution and country (including IBDP point requirements). You will need to
research the requirements carefully by checking individual university websites.
○ If you want to study at a Dutch university in Dutch, you must have at least Dutch B Higher Level in your
IBDP subject package. (Note: There are many English language programmes in the Netherlands and they
have no Dutch language requirement)
○ If you want to study in your home country, you must make sure you understand the university
requirements. Some countries have language requirements that need to be reflected in your IBDP
package. The IB Diploma is widely recognized for college entry requirements. Please find more details at
the IBO website: www.ibo.org/diploma/recognition
● How do I choose my Higher Level and Standard Level subjects?
○ Ask yourself these questions:
■ Do I enjoy studying this subject?
■ Do I have enough background knowledge in this subject?
■ Do my previous grades and experience show that I am strong in this subject?
■ Do I want to challenge myself with a new subject which I have not had the opportunity to study
before?
■ Does my university choice mean that I have to study specific courses in the IBDP?
UWC MAASTRICHT 34
MATRIX OF IB PREREQUISITES FOR UNIVERSITY
This matrix contains general guidelines that are a starting point in your preparations for university applications. Requirements
for specific programs often change. There are many subjects not listed here that can be studied at university level, which
have no specific IB prerequisites. Because some programs do have IB prerequisites in order to apply, it is essential that
students conduct their own research to ensure their IB subject package meets their needs.
CANADA NL UK USA
For some programs Programs

with Math conducted in Dutch
prerequisite, Math may require Dutch
studies may not be A. For some
accepted programs, Math
Studies may not be
accepted
ARCHITECTURE Maths HL or some Maths HL, Physics SL Most require Maths HL, Maths HL and
places SL. May require or some places HL Physics HL, English SL recommended
2 Sciences or some places HL, Art Science HL
or DT, Portfolio
ART & DESIGN Portfolio required. Art Portfolio required. Art Portfolio required. Art or Portfolio required.
or DT required or DT recommended. DT required Art or DT
recommended.
ECONOMICS Maths HL highly Maths HL highly Maths HL highly No specific

(not BUSINESS recommended recommended, some recommended, some prerequisites
MANAGEMENT) universities might universities might accept
accept Math SL but Math SL
never Math Studies
ENGINEERING Maths HL or some Maths HL, Physics HL Maths HL and Physics Maths HL. 1 more
places might accept HL Science HL highly
SL. May require 2 encouraged
Sciences HL
LAW Not available as English A HL and English HL (A or B), Not available as

undergraduate option Essay- based Essay- based subjects undergraduate
subjects at HL at HL strongly option
strongly recommended (e.g.
recommended (e.g. History)
History)
MEDICINE Not available as 3 Sciences Required May require Chemistry Not available as
undergraduate option Physics SL, HL and one other undergraduate
Chemistry HL or Science HL, option
some places SL, Recommend Biology HL
Biology HL and Maths SL
(substitute courses
and exam can be
done before
application in Boswell
Beta Institute in
Utrecht, contact
institute for the cost)
At least Maths SL
PSYCHOLOGY May require at least May require Biology May require at least No specific
Maths SL SL and Math SL Maths SL, May require 1 prerequisites
HL from Biology,
Chemistry, Maths or
Physics
UWC MAASTRICHT 35
UNIVERSITY APPLICATION PROCESS
The university counsellors will meet collectively and individually with all DP1 students between January and June of their first
year. This is the beginning of the university process as they get to know you better and you have the opportunity to ask
questions. They will review with you your profile and offer suggestions on moving forward including the provision of different
resources to help you with your research.
Once you start applying to universities, the university counselling team will advise and help you coordinate your application/s to
a maximum of 6 US colleges in the Davis Programme and 8 applications worldwide (some applications count as 1 though allow
multiple choices within - e.g. UCAS is 1 application that allows up to 5 choices).
When do I apply to university?

 During the first term of DP2, most students apply to university
 Please note:
o The Universities office sets internal deadlines. These deadlines allow the university counsellors to ensure
that all application materials are complete and ready to meet the external deadlines. The Universities
calendar will be shared with all students. You must keep to these deadlines. Failure to do so may
compromise your application and thus impact your desired start date.
What is a transcript and why do I need one?

 A transcript is an official record of classes taken and grades received in high school.
 Most universities require transcripts (past and present) as part of the application.
 If you attended UWC Maastricht as an MYP student, the Universities Office will provide this document to students
and/or universities, as needed.
 For those who join UWC Maastricht for the first time as DP students, please be aware that an official transcript of the
last two years of studies from your previous high school is needed. Please bring the copy of your past transcript
when you arrive to Maastricht.. A copy of your school report is not sufficient.
It is your responsibility to obtain an official transcript from your previous high school. Normally, you can do this by making a
request to the Registrar or High School office of your previous school. Transcripts come in different formats, but are usually
one page and contain the name and address (and logo) of the school, a list of courses taken, dates and grades in class and of
any external or national exams. They must include the signature of the person verifying the information and a stamp of that
institution.
University entrance tests, application costs, interview travel expenses
Law and medicine in the UK and some courses at Oxford require external tests as part of the application process. Most US
colleges require submission of a standardized test and students can choose from the SAT or ACT, each of which costs between
$40 and $120. €.
Students are responsible for university application costs though some fee waivers may be available for those with limited
financial resources applying to the US. Application costs can range from €0-€200.
Students are responsible for their own costs if called for an in person interview though most institutions are understanding of
circumstances and are happy to conduct an interview via SKYPE.
Please see the UWC Maastricht website for more information.
UWC MAASTRICHT 36
7. PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Safety Protocols & Procedures

All students of UWC Maastricht should know how to act in case of an emergency. Next to the door in all classrooms you will
find instructions about what to do in case of fire and how to respond in to an intruder alert. Most importantly: don’t panic and
follow the instructions given by staff members.
If you are a residential student and the evacuation alarm sounds in your building, keep calm and leave the building via the
nearest exit. Wait for further instruction by one of the residential mentors at the gathering space.
First Aid
Any students requiring first aid during the school day should report to reception.
Evacuation Procedure
FIRE ALARM: The fire alarm is a slow-whoop sound.
INTRUDER ALARM: announcement via sound system.
All members of the school community are asked to keep in mind the nearest exit points in case of an evacuation.
 Evacuations should be conducted calmly and in total silence to allow everyone to hear any potential announcements
to help them reach safety.
 In case of a fire alarm all windows and doors should be closed, and everyone must leave the premises using the
nearest safe exit. Bags should be left behind in the classrooms.
 All members of the school community are to walk to the Geusselt car park next to the tennis fields. When walking
across the car bridge one should use the pedestrian part to allow fire brigade to enter the campus area safely and
fast. All should also be aware of younger (usually Primary) students to ensure their safe evacuation - they walk on the
right side of the pedestrian path.
 Students are to form lines in their tutor groups in alphabetical (family name) order to ensure quick and accurate roll
call of names by their tutors at the evacuation area.
 Everyone is asked to wait quietly for further information.
In case of an intruder alert students are to enter the nearest classroom and find a location in the room from which
they cannot be seen from the corridor. Staff can lock doors should there be a lock, or doors can also be barricaded
using cupboards and tables. Everyone is to wait quietly for further announcements via the internal sound system.
Mobile phones should be switched to mute mode.
Visitors
Visitors are not allowed onto school premises or in the school building, unless permission from the appropriate personnel has
been given. Students who notice “strangers” in school are requested to report this to reception.
Passes and Lanyards

Early in the school year the school photographer will take photos of each student. One of these will go onto a swipe card which
provides admission to the school building and is also the student’s library card. The swipe card also gives access to the school
printer and the day student’s locker. Students need to ensure that they carry their pass with them every day and that they can
be identified as a student at all times.
Personal Property and Valuables

You are strongly advised to label all articles (bicycles, jackets, books, lunch boxes, P.E. clothes etc.). Take care to prevent
theft. No money or valuables should ever be left unattended especially in the changing rooms or other areas. The school
cannot be held responsible for the loss of unattended valuables.
Students who have lost property at school should ask, in the first instance, at the reception. Any items found in and around the
school building can also be handed in there.
Lockers
All day students will be issued with a locker which can be accessed with the help of the swipe card. The issue and use of the
swipe card is included in the school fee. € 10 will be charged to replace a lost swipe card. Lockers may not be exchanged
without informing the concierge.
UWC MAASTRICHT 37
Keeping the school clean and tidy

Consumption of food or drinks is restricted to the Mensa, atrium and courtyard. If you spill something accidentally on the floor or
a table or chair you are asked to fetch a cloth or mop from the supervisor and clean up any mess you have made. Food
wrappings and leftovers should be deposited in the waste-bin and not left on the table or thrown on the floor. Students are
encouraged to use the recycling bins to separate waste.
Damage
Any student causing damage must report this at once the concierge or the facilities manager. Parents/guardians are
responsible for paying the cost of repairing such damage. Students are encouraged to report to reception any damage they see
and also any school fittings or equipment that is not working properly.
Bicycle Park
Students coming by bicycle are requested to observe normal traffic rules in the vicinity of the school. Bikes should be locked
and parked in the bicycle racks at the designated areas on the school grounds. On school ground students are asked to walk
with their bicycle and day students are requested not to leave the bicycles overnight.
United World College Maastricht

Visiting address:
Discusworp 65
6225 XP MAASTRICHT
Postal address:
P.O. Box 1187
6201 BD MAASTRICHT
Phone number: +31 (0) 43 2 410 410

E-mail info@uwcmaastricht.nl
Website www.uwcmaastricht.nl
Head of College Lodewijk van Oord l.vanoord@uwcmaastricht.nl
Executive Assistant Iva Horejsi i.horejsi@uwcmaastricht.nl
Interim Deputy Head/Director of Secondary School Kate Doyle t.oden@uwcmaastricht.nl
Academic Secretary, Secondary Melisa Tutundžić m.tutundzic@uwcmaastricht.nl
Interim Deputy Directors of Secondary School

● Teaching and Learning John Simpson j.simpson@uwcmaastricht.nl
● Student Life Saskia van Kampen s.vankampen@uwcmaastricht.nl
● Student Services Simon Miller s.miller@uwcmaastricht.nl
● Community Engagement Denise Verdonschot d.verdonschot@uwcmaastricht.nl
DP Coordinator Maurice Tonnaer m.tonnaer@uwcmaastricht.nl

Deputy DP Coordinator Pete Killham p.killham@uwcmaastricht.nl
University Counsellors Ingrid Davalos i.davalos@uwcmaastricht.nl

Peter Hauet (Sep-Dec) p.hauet@uwcmaastricht.nl
Cathy Curtis (Jan-June) c.curtis@uwcmaastricht.nl
universities@uwcmaastricht.nl
Head of Year DP Marcus Felsman m.felsman@uwcmaastricht.nl
Head of Residential Life Satyadeep Srivastava s.srivastava@uwcmaastricht.nl
Counseler Krisztina Chogo k.chogo@uwcmaastricht.nl
School Nurse Zakiya Allaoui z.allaoui@uwcmaastricht.nl
Programme Coordinator - Sustainability & Project Week Iva Horejsi i.horejsi@uwcmaastricht.nl
Programme Coordinator - Olaya Garcia Alonso o.garcia@uwcmaastricht.nl

Social Entrepreneurship & Active Global Citizenship,
Alumni coordinator
UWC MAASTRICHT 38
Admissions Esther Boere e.boere@uwcmaastricht.nl

Jenny Hobson j.hobson@uwcmaastricht.nl
Gonnie Crawford g.crawford@uwcmaastricht.nl
Filippo Scalandi f.scalandi@uwcmaastricht.nl
admissions@uwcmaastricht.nl
UWC MAASTRICHT 39
8. ALUMNI AFFAIRS - A LIFELONG COMMUNITY

Your journey through UWC Maastricht will last two academic years. UWC Maastricht and all the other UWCs around the world
aim to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future. After you have been here for a few months, you
will realise through experience that The World is One Family.
UWC Maastricht is about balancing academic commitments and non-academic commitments. Joining UWC is a way of living, a
lifelong commitment to the mission and values of this movement, and a way to have a positive impact in this world. After
experiencing an education based on universal values at UWC Maastricht, you will have the opportunity to join a larger
movement of national committees, alumni associations, alumni from UWC short courses, an international office based in
London and UWC staff and parents who also believe these higher ideals will make the world a better place.
As an alum, you will represent UWC Maastricht and the wider movement. Your personal example will show how our
educational model creates more engaged, understanding, peaceful and collaborative individuals and, ultimately, societies. Your
global outlook and extensive international network will empower you to act locally with greater determination and interact more
knowledgeably with communities wherever you are. You will become an Active Global Citizen, a change-maker ready to
innovate and start up social projects and social enterprises.
These two years will produce some of the best memories in your life but remember: this is just the beginning of a long journey.
The real adventure and UWC lifelong commitment begins the day you graduate.
Don’t forget us!
Do help us to continue growing and improving our programmes. Keep in touch and make us aware of the amazing things you
do after leaving UWC Maastricht. Your example and ideas can help and inspire many other UWCM students in the future.
Join UWC Maastricht’s alumni platform at uwcmaastrichtconnect.com where you will be able to:
 Reconnect - Find and reminisce with fellow UWC Maastricht alumni, see what they have been up to and stay in
touch.
 Give back - Get involved at UWC Maastricht in different capacities. Introduce, employ and offer to act as a mentor to
our graduating students.
 Expand - Leverage your professional network to get introduced to people you should know.
 Advance - Advance your career and projects through inside connections working in companies or organisations of
your interest.
Please remember to inform us about any exciting projects you’re involved in: alumni@uwcmaastricht.nl
UWC MAASTRICHT 40
9. RESIDENTIAL LIFE SECTION

Whether you live in the residence buildings or at home with your family, you are still a member of the UWC Maastricht
community. If we are all to understand one another properly then it is useful to know a little about the expectations we live by.
Parents of students in the day community have various expectations and procedures for living at home and the same is true for
the students living in the residence. It will be helpful if everyone, residential and day student, looks at the following section
because it will help us all become aware of how we can support each other.
Code of Conduct
Students should respect the UWC Code of Conduct in spirit and practice in residential life. A document detailing the
consequences of not meeting the expectations set out in the code of conduct and residential agreements is available on each
floor and from your residence mentor.
Room Allocation Policy

Students in DP1 are allocated to floors by the Head of Residential Life and to rooms by the Residence Mentor. The aim is to
have a diverse group of countries, cultures and languages represented. Rooms will have a mix of DP1 and DP2 students.
Students are generally allocated to a floor for two years.
At the end of DP1 a student or a Residence Mentor can request that a student moves floor for their second year. The
student/Residence Mentor should put the request in writing to the Head of Residential Life detailing the specific reasons for the
request.
DP1 students can indicate to their Residence Mentor a preference for room allocation on the floor in DP2. This will be
considered by the Residence Mentor alongside other factors including diversity, mix of DP1s and DP2s, floor dynamic etc. and
therefore students may not get their choice.
Check In
Residential students should personally check in with their Residence Mentor (RM) on the floor from Sunday to Thursday
evenings between 10.00 PM to 10.05 PM. Following check in you are allowed in the Mensa until 11.00 PM but should respect
that some of your peers may be sleeping and keep noise to a minimum (quiet time). After 11.00 PM students should remain on
their own floors (curfew) and continue to respect quiet time. You must remain on your own floor and respect quiet time until
07.30 AM.
On Friday and Saturday nights students may check in with the RM on duty between 10.00 PM - 10.05 PM or between 11.45 PM
– 00.15 AM in the Mensa before returning to their own floors (Curfew ends at 08.45 AM on the weekends). Noise should be
kept to a minimum after 10.00 PM until 08.45 AM on the floors.
Students must remain on campus after check in. If you wish to leave campus before curfew ends (at 07.30 AM on weekdays
and at 08.45 AM at weekends) for example to go running you should seek the permission of your RM.
Late check in must be agreed in advance and for specific reasons.
Leaving Campus during the day

Students should sign out (and back in) when they leave campus during the day. Sign out books are placed at each exit door of
each floor.
Leave procedures for weekends and holidays

Students wishing to leave campus overnight at the weekend must complete the residence leave request form in a timely
manner. You should ensure that your residence mentor has received details of the plans including confirmation of your
accommodation booking or from your host and your parent’s specific consent for the leave. Once you have all of the information
and permissions the RM will approve your leave request. You should aim to return to campus before 17.30 on Sunday evening.
We aim to close the residences during the December and summer breaks. Students who do not have the financial means to
return home or travel during these breaks will be supported through the Home Stay Programme. Students who take part in the
Home Stay Programme need to commit to being an Ambassador for UWC Maastricht during their stay with a family.
The Dutch education authority requires students to attend school during the published school dates unless there are adverse
conditions preventing this. Students are therefore asked to ensure that travel bookings are made to ensure that they are in
school for the beginning and end of each term. The Dutch education authority can fine the school (and families) if students do
not attend.
UWC MAASTRICHT 41
Note about DP2 April study break

DP2 students are encouraged to optimize their time during study break by studying in the residence. This will allow you to seek
help from the teachers who are around either in school or in the residence at this crucial time. Students who are able to return
home and wish to study at home under their parents’ supervision are permitted to do so. Requests to go to the home of another
DP2 student will be considered if your parents give permission. You will not be permitted to travel during this time. Weekend
leave is possible.
After the leavers ceremony (and once they have graduated) DP2 students are asked to respect the need for DP1 students to
adjust to life without them in residence and to meet students off campus or in school, when invited for specific activities.
DP1 departures at the end of the year

At the end of their first year DP1 students may store possessions they wish to keep on Campus in the boxes provided and in
the designated area. Students must leave their floors clean and tidy.
Visitors to the floor and to the student rooms
 Residential students are allowed to be on other floors and in other rooms until check in. You should always be
mindful and respectful of the others living in the room and all roommates should be in agreement about hosting
visitors in the room. The doors of the rooms should be open when visitors are there. Students must respect the UWC
common code of conduct at all times.
 DP day students are allowed to visit under the same conditions as mentioned above. The visitor should be hosted by
a residential student who will be responsible for that student until his/her departure from the school premises at the
latest by check in time. In addition they will have to sign in and out of the building as many times as they enter and
leave.
 Visitors who are not a part of the school community will be allowed only in the common areas. Parents can only visit
the rooms when they come for the first time to drop off their student. Subsequent visits should be confined to
common rooms. Students must obtain a visitors pass from reception for family members or friends from outside the
school community.
RMs reserve the right to enter the rooms by first knocking and then entering at any time as they are responsible for the well-
being of the students in the communal residential arrangement.
MYP5 and DP1 day students are invited to stay on campus and experience residential life for a period of time at the end of May
or beginning of June each year.
Emergency phone numbers

The Emergency Number to contact the Police, Fire or Ambulance in the Netherlands is 112.
The Duty Contact Number for Residential Life is 0631766066 from within the Netherlands and 0031 631766066 from outside
Netherlands. It will be in operation 24 hrs. a day, during weekends and holiday breaks and will always be with one of the
Residence Mentors who are on duty.
IN YOUR ROOMS AND ON THE FLOOR
Furniture
Students are asked not to move furniture in the rooms without prior consultation with and agreement from their Residence
Mentor. If at all it is moved then the rearrangement needs to be done in such a way that it should not block the way and visibility
from the window and the door due to requirements of the safety regulations that need to be met in emergency situations.
For safety reasons no heating elements or open flames should be used in the rooms (hot plates, kettles, candles, incense
etc.).
Students may pin or sticky tape things to the wall. Students may not use nails, heavy duty tape or other materials that may
damage the walls.
Cleaning
Students are responsible for keeping the floor clean and tidy. Floors should discuss and agree upon the most effective way for
them to complete the cleaning (for example on a rota, designated cleaning times, etc.).
Cleaning products are supplied to each floor. Refills, toilet rolls, liquid hand wash and bin bags are available for collection from
the Concierges.
UWC MAASTRICHT 42
Asito, the school’s cleaning company regularly clean the bathrooms and corridors. The cleaning times are posted on each floor.
Students should ensure that the showers and sinks are clear of bottles etc. on cleaning days.
Waste/Garbage
Students should put all garbage in the skip close to the main gate. Cardboard, paper and plastic should be separated for
recycling and put in the bins outside of the gym by the staff bicycle park. Other recycling facilities can be found outside the
supermarkets.
Food
Food is served in the Mensa and meal times will be posted on the floor and in the Mensa. Meal times may vary during holidays
and any changes of times are posted in the Mensa.
There is a cleaning rota in the Mensa and each room is allocated a week in the year to clear and clean tables and arrange the
chairs at the end of the service for breakfast and dinner.
Maintenance and repairs

Students should log maintenance issues and repairs needed via the google doc that is shared with each student as soon as
issues arise. This should be followed up with the Residence Mentor if issues are not fixed. The concierges work in the
residences every Wednesday.
Floor representatives
The RM and the students on the floor select two floor representatives to coordinate with the residence mentor, support the
efficient running of the floor and act as a point of contact between DP student council and residential students.
Phone calls
Phones in the common rooms, classrooms and the library do not have the facility to make external calls. If you need to make a
telephone call that cannot be made via Skype (or other web based programmes) you can ask for help from your Residence
Mentor. You will be able to use the phone in their apartment or they will arrange for you to phone from school.
Security
On Campus
Students must wear their lanyards and passes/swipe cards during the school day. You must report loss of their pass to
reception.
Students are asked not to leave entrance doors or fire escape doors open at any time (in the residence or the school building)
and ensure that doors close properly when they leave.
The car bridge gate will be closed each week day evening at 07.00 PM. The gate should remain closed during the weekends
unless an official activity is taking place. Students are asked for their support in keeping the gate closed during the weekend
when no activities are taking place.
If a student sees someone who looks like they do not belong on campus they should inform a member of staff immediately.
Students are advised to keep all valuables out of sight and safe in their lockers at all times. You are advised to lock their rooms
when you are not there.
Pocket money should be kept with the school finance department. Your parents can make arrangements for the finance
department to receive and hold your pocket money. Students receiving pocket money from the school will also collect their
money from the finance department. All monies received must be signed for on receipt.
The school finance department is open during the school day and can be contacted on finance@uwcmaastricht.nl
Students are required to bring an amount of 300 Euros cash when they arrive as a security deposit which is refundable at the
end of their stay. These deposits will be collected on arrival by the Finance Department. The annual security deposit will cover
any damage to school property such as bicycles, books, unpaid medical fees, lost documents etc.
For access to a safe, where students can store their passports and any official documents if they wish, you should speak to the
Head of Residential Life.
Off Campus
Students should sign out when going off campus. You should make sure at least one person knows where you are going.
UWC MAASTRICHT 43
Students are advised to always be aware of their surroundings and in particular when it is dark to keep to areas that are well lit
and well populated even if it means taking a longer route. Later at night you are advised to walk together with other students
and not on your own. Students should avoid aggravating any situations they find themselves in.
Students should make sure that they have the duty phone number in their phone and that residence mentors have their mobile
number.
Cycling
Students should ensure they have a front (white) and back (red) light on their bikes, not only are you required to do so in the
Netherlands and could be fined, it is also important that drivers can see you when cycling in the dark.
Bike theft is unfortunately quite common in Maastricht and students should therefore ensure that they have a lock for their bike.
Fireworks, Sparklers & Candles

Fireworks or firecrackers are not permitted on campus. Candles can be used under strict supervision in the Mensa. Small hand
held sparklers can be used outside of the buildings and with care to avoid flammable clothing.
Fire procedures
Fire procedures are posted on each floor and students will also receive regular briefings.
Health
Sick after the school day (after 16.30)
Please contact your Residence Mentor or if they are unavailable another residence mentor or call the residential life duty phone
on 06 31 766 066
Insurance
The school takes out insurance for all residential students with the exception of residential students with Dutch nationality who
must be insured via their parents. Full details of the insurance cover are available from the admissions office. The insurance
does not cover: dental braces; check-ups or repairs, glasses or contact lenses.
Contacts
The School Nurse
Zakiya Allaoui
z.allaoui@uwcmaastricht.nl
The Nurse can excuse you from school if you are sick, offer support if you are feeling unwell and help you make appointments
with the Doctor and Dentist. In the Netherlands you can only visit a hospital or a specialist if you have been referred by the
Doctor.
Doctor
The school registers all students with a Doctor/General Practitioner. Contact details will be displayed on your floor. The Nurse
can support you in making appointments.
Dentist
Residential students should have dental work completed before arrival and receive periodic examinations during home
holidays. The school can assist with arrangements locally if necessary but our insurance does not cover dental care and
you are responsible for all charges. Appointments can be arranged by the Nurse.
Contacting the Doctor outside of his office hours

When the School Doctor’s clinic is closed you can contact the Out of Hours Doctors service which is based at AZM, the
University Hospital.
This on call Doctors service is only for emergency and acute medical care outside the office hours of the school Doctor. The
phone number is: 043 387 77 77. To avoid a long wait you should call the number, explain your symptoms to the physician’s
assistant and ask for an appointment.
Keep the following information ready so that the physician assistant can provide the best possible service:
 Name, address, date of birth and telephone number.
UWC MAASTRICHT 44
 Insurance Card (always take it to the Doctor).

 Legal ID (always take it to the Doctor).
 Name of the School Doctor.
 List of names of the medications you use.
Be as precise as possible in describing your symptoms, so that the assistant can estimate the severity of your complaint.
Use of school building after 07.00 PM

The school building is open for all DP students until 07.00 PM. A Polygarde Security member staffs reception from 05.00 PM
until 07.00 PM. Additionally, there will be a guard from 07.30 PM until 09.30 PM (Wed), and from 07.30 PM - 08.30 PM (Thu).
The guard should be contacted in case of an emergency.
Residential students can access the school building after 07.00 PM and until 09.55 PM by using their pass/swipe card. Each
individual student must use their card for entry. Please do not prop doors open.
The school building is made available for quiet study, meetings and pre-arranged activities. Student supervisors monitor the
space and activities. Please respect the school building at all times and report any misuse or damage.
The Campus environment and the Moat

Students are asked to respect the wildlife on the moat by ensuring that the campus is litter free, not using water balloons, not
feeding the wildlife and keeping a distance in particular from nesting birds and their young.
Students must not enter/jump in the moat or throw/push their peers in the moat. You could harm yourself or others. The water
can be dirty, polluted and a risk to health if swallowed and may cause skin irritation. The bottom of the moat is muddy, contains
rocks and other debris which could cause harm if you fall or are pushed in. The water system is also part of a growing
ecosystem with a myriad of nesting birds which could be negatively disrupted by this practice.
Pushing people in the moat and similar examples of birthday ‘celebrations’ are considered as an example of hazing and
therefore against the expectations set out in the UWC code of conduct. It is not an excuse when students say that they are
comfortable with or consent to the incident. Peer pressure and a wanting to fit/belong are complex issues in our diverse
community.
Further information
Forms and more detailed information on procedures are available from your Residence Mentor.
Credit: Some of the ideas and organization of this document were suggested by the DP handbook of our sister UWC Pearson
College (Canada). We thank them for sharing the resource.
UWC MAASTRICHT 45

DP Student Handbook 2018-2019

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DP STUDENT HANDBOOK

UWC Maastricht Vision Statement .......................................................................................................................................... 4

Mission and Values................................................................................................................................................................. 4

Learning to care for yourself and your community ................................................................................................................... 4

Roles at UWCM ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5

Personal Tutors and Tutor Groups .......................................................................................................................................... 5

Head of Year (HOY DP1&2) ................................................................................................................................................... 5

Interim Director of Studies Secondary (DoS)........................................................................................................................... 5

Interim Deputy Directors of Secondary School ........................................................................................................................ 6

Residence Mentors (RMs) ...................................................................................................................................................... 6

Head of Residential Life .......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Head of College ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7

Interpersonal and Intercultural Awareness .............................................................................................................................. 7

2. Student Life ....................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Student Council ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8

DP Community Building .......................................................................................................................................................... 8

The Forum ............................................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Residential Community Meetings ............................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

DP day student access to the school building ......................................................................................................................... 8

Community Safety Guidelines - Students ................................................................................................................................ 9

Youth Social Entrepreneurship ............................................................................................................................................. 11

UWCM Conferences ............................................................................................................................................................. 11

Additional Opportunities to learn about the World ................................................................................................................. 12

3. Learning to Live Responsibly & Community Expectations.......................................................................................... 14

Absence from College .......................................................................................................................................................... 16

Unauthorised Absence--DP .................................................................................................................................................. 17

5. Learning Through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) ....................................................... 19

Constructing a Subject Package ........................................................................................................................................... 20

IBDP Courses Offered at UWC Maastricht ............................................................................................................................ 20

Group 1: Languages and Literature ...................................................................................................................................... 20

Group 2: Language Acquisition ............................................................................................................................................. 20

Group 3: Individuals and Societies ........................................................................................................................................ 22

Group 4: Sciences ................................................................................................................................................................ 24

Group 5: Mathematics .......................................................................................................................................................... 25

Group 6: The Arts ................................................................................................................................................................. 26

Subject Assessment in all IBDP Subjects ............................................................................................................................. 28

Anticipated grades ................................................................................................................................................................ 31

Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) ................................................................................................................................... 32

6. University Counselling (Universities) ............................................................................................................................ 34

7. Practical information ...................................................................................................................................................... 37

8. Alumni Affairs - A Lifelong Community....................................................................................................................... 40

9. Residential Life Section ................................................................................................................................................. 41

MISSION AND VALUES

● International and intercultural understanding.

LEARNING TO CARE FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR COMMUNITY

● Get enough sleep.

Without taking care of yourself you cannot:

● Take care of others

● Discover your full potential

● Building and maintaining relationships with service providers

PERSONAL TUTORS AND TUTOR GROUPS

Every student belongs to a small tutor group consisting of:

● A Personal Tutor (who is also a subject teacher)

Each week you will:

HEAD OF YEAR (HOY DP1&2)

The Head of Year:

 Coordinates and support the Personal Tutors

DIRECTOR OF STUDIES SECONDARY (DOS)

INTERIM DEPUTY DIRECTORS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL

 Interim Deputy Director of Teaching and Learning (DDTL)

 Interim Deputy Director of Student Life (DDSL)

 Interim Deputy Director of Student Services (DDSS)

Level of Concern Adults Involved Possible Consequences*