Preparing Caregivers for the IB MYP Personal Project

You’ve heard the phrase, “it takes a village.”

At the American International School of Guangzhou (AISG), that idea is part of how we support students.

Learning is strongest when students, teachers, supervisors, librarians, coordinators, and caregivers understand the journey ahead and the role they can play.

That is especially true for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Personal Project, the culminating project of the IB MYP. In Grade 10, students choose a topic they are passionate about, develop new knowledge or skills, and create a product or outcome that demonstrates their learning. It is student-driven, motivating, and challenging by design. It also helps students strengthen their Approaches to Learning skills, including planning, research, communication, organization, and reflection.

To help families feel prepared, AISG hosts an introduction session for caregivers of rising Grade 10 students. The session explains what the Personal Project is, how it is assessed, what support structures are in place, and how caregivers can encourage students as they begin exploring ideas.

While the Personal Project is an important opportunity for students to build independence, they are not expected to navigate it alone. Each student is assigned a supervisor, with additional guidance available from the Personal Project coordinator, library team, and wider AISG community. Caregivers also play an important role by asking thoughtful questions, providing feedback, and helping students connect their interests to possible learning goals and products.

By preparing caregivers early, AISG strengthens the partnership around each student before the milestone begins. That preparation helps students step into the Personal Project with confidence and support.

Are you looking for a school that sees caregivers as true partners? AISG is the school for you. Follow us today for more articles on caregiver involvement.