B1Role of the Diploma Programme coordinator

The IB does not provide official or sample job descriptions for Diploma Programme coordinators. The writing of a job description for any faculty/staff member is normally the responsibility of the school’s administration, and this includes the very specific duties of the coordinator. However, it must be stated that the role of the Diploma Programme coordinator in an IB World School is crucial to the success of the programme. Without sufficient time and resources to undertake the many duties required of this position, a coordinator cannot successfully implement and manage the various demands of the Diploma Programme. For it to be done well, sufficient release time, dedicated office space, administrative support, printer and photocopying facilities must be available. New coordinators should receive IB-approved professional development that will equip them with a clear understanding of their role and responsibilities.

In general, the demands on the coordinator are proportionate to the number of Diploma Programme candidates and staff, and the number of subjects offered by the school. Fundamentally, the coordinator is responsible for providing information, guidance and administrative support to candidates, colleagues and other stakeholders. The coordinator is also responsible for the coordination of all activities related to the Diploma Programme, although specific responsibilities, such as the coordination of creativity, service, action (CAS) or theory of knowledge (TOK), may be delegated to other members of staff. One of the crucial duties of a coordinator is to communicate information to subject teachers, such as information about changes to curriculum and assessment.