General Information

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme offers sixth form students an exciting alternative to A-level studies.

The Diploma is a two-year course of study that combines to form a coherent programme. It educates and develops well-rounded individuals providing them with life skills that will be essential at University and in the work place.

The IB is not based on any one post-16 programme, but was designed as a compromise between the narrow programmes offered in some educational systems and the very wide programmes compulsory in others. Therefore the IB allows specialisation whilst maintaining breadth across curriculum areas.

As part of the diploma, students must study six subjects, three of which must be at Higher Level and three at Standard level. This allows students to specialise in several chosen areas, whilst maintaining the breadth of study. Each student must also follow a course in the ‘Theory of Knowledge’ (TOK) as well as submitting an Extended Essay and engaging in CAS activities (Creativity, Action, Service).

The IB is designed to provide young people with an international education, accepted world wide, which will prove a vital advantage in today’s multi-cultural and global world. It has British and international recognition for University entry, indeed some universities even offer scholarships to IB students.

Apart from intellectual rigour and high academic standards, strong emphasis is placed on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizenship.