If there is a perception that the International Baccalaureate is an arts and languages qualification, it is understandable. As the principal of the Queensland Academies –Science, Mathematics and Technology, Kath Kayrooz points out the IB is called a "liberal arts" qualification and one of its notable features is studying a language.

However, Kayrooz says the IB is also a powerful framework for learning science, technology, engineering and maths-related subjects (STEM).