The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a demanding diploma programme designed for highly motivated sixth form students. The diploma provides an ideal pre-university course and is recognised by universities around the world. Since its creation in 1968 this practical qualification has earned a reputation for rigorous assessment and is highly regarded by the world’s leading universities.

This two year course combines six subject groups with three additional features: theory of knowledge; creativity, action and service; and an extended essay.

The six subject groups cover: English; a second language; individuals and society; experimental sciences; mathematics and computer science; and the arts. Students may select one subject from each group, three of which will be studied at the higher level and three at the standard level.

This course is ideal for students who enjoy a range of subjects and don’t want to give some up (as may be the case if they were to consider A Levels). The range of subjects and the additional three features of the diploma provide a tremendous all-round learning experience.

What do the three additional features involve?...

Theory of knowledge (ToK) is an interdisciplinary activity that encourages students to reflect critically on knowledge and experiences gained in and out of the classroom. Students will challenge and question bases of knowledge to become aware of subjective and ideological biases while developing an ability to analyse arguments and draw their own conclusions. This part of the programme will also involve a 1,200 – 1,600 word essay and a class presentation.

Creativity, action and service (CAS) is intended to educate the person, to develop compassionate and responsible young adults who will become valuable citizens of the world. Here students are required to demonstrate their involvement in other interests and activities such as participation in dramatic or musical productions, community service and voluntary work, sports or similar activities. Students will be required to keep a journal as they develop greater awareness of themselves and others.

An extended essay (EE), of at least 4,000 words completes the programme. Students will select an area of personal interest as the basis for their essay. From there they will need to research and consider their subject in order to prepare their essay. This develops research skills, the ability to think in an analytical and critical way, and writing skills are built upon. This is ideal preparation for university.

How is the course assessed?...
Standard and higher level subjects are both studied throughout your two sixth form years. There are no examinations in Year 12 as all IB examinations take place in May of Year 13. As part of your IB studies you must complete a CAS journal (documenting at least 150 hours of relevant activity), which will be assessed internally. The EE and ToK aspects of the course will be externally assessed. You can gain a maximum of seven points for each of the six subjects studied. Final grades are awarded according to a points system. The maximum mark would be 45 points, this is made up of a potential seven points for each of the six subjects, plus three points that are available for the theory of knowledge and extended essay components. As noted above, the CAS journal must be completed too.

Is IB a good choice if I want to go to university?...
It certainly is. With the International Baccalaureate your options for the subjects you choose to study at university are left wide open, because you have studied such a wide range of subjects during the IB course. That’s good news if you’re not quite ready to decide on your university subjects and are finding it difficult to select your sixth form subjects as a result. With an International Baccalaureate Diploma you could also apply to universities in other countries.

The IB results are available in July, which effectively gives IB students first choice of university places. Universities across the UK, and around the world, recognise the IB as a valuable qualification, on an equal footing with A Levels. Indeed, many university admissions tutors feel that an IB student is better prepared for university, due to the rigour of the course and the CAS and ToK elements, which are similar to aspects of university-based study. Do remember when thinking about university places that many universities make offers to students on the basis of points, and on occasions they will, in certain subjects, still specify a particular grade that you will need to achieve in order to gain a place.

The International Baccalaureate is an option that you should consider seriously. With instant recognition by universities and companies around the world the International Baccalaureate Diploma is sometimes referred to as – the passport to the world!

To apply
To apply for a place on the International Baccalaureate Diploma please complete and return the application form you will find in the sixth form prospectus. Download prospectus.