The Thessaloniki Music School (T.M.S.) is taking a leading role in a significant educational transformation. It has been selected as one of only thirteen public candidate schools in Greece that will pilot the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, offering its students an opportunity that until now was accessible only through private education.
For the first time, a programme that in private schools requires substantial tuition fees will be offered free of charge to our students. In this way, the Thessaloniki Music School separates international academic perspective from financial capacity, making it accessible to every student.
At T.M.S., the IB will operate on an optional basis and in parallel with the existing General Lyceum system. Students in the second and third years of Lyceum who choose it will follow a globally oriented curriculum, while continuing to study Modern Greek Language, Literature, and History, thus ensuring balance with our national education and the school’s cultural roots.
Successful completion of the programme leads to a diploma fully equivalent to the Greek Apolytirio (Upper Secondary School Leaving Certificate), which serves as a strong academic credential:
- Universities Abroad: Direct recognition in more than 150 countries.
- Non-State Universities in Greece: According to Law 5094, IB Diploma holders may enroll in non-state higher education institutions without undergoing the Panhellenic Examinations process.
The aim of this pilot implementation is to demonstrate that public schools can be innovative and outward-looking, equipping young people with the skills and qualifications needed to excel in the global community.