The IB Diploma Programe (IBDP) is a two-year assessed programme for pupils aged 16 to 19. It provides an internationally accepted qualification for entry into higher education, employment or an apprenticeship, and is recognised by many universities worldwide.  

The IBDP centres on the DP core, which is made up of three components that are studied alongside individual subjects.

The three core elements are:

• Theory of Knowledge (ToK) – pupils reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we know
• The Extended Essay (EE) – an independent, self-directed piece of research
• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) – pupils complete a project related to these three aspects.

These core elements are designed to broaden pupils’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills. Pupils then choose a range of subjects from the following subject groups:

• studies in language and literature
• language acquisition
• individuals and societies
• sciences
• mathematics
• the arts.

Pupils will take some subjects at Higher Level (HL) and some at Standard Level (SL). HL and SL courses differ in scope, but are measured according to the same grade descriptors with pupils expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge, understanding and skills at Higher Level. Each pupil takes at least three (but not more than four) subjects at Higher Level and the remaining at Standard Level.

The Career-Related Programme (IBCP) suits pupils who have a desire to continue their academic study while also developing skills for employment and future career development. The programme's three-part framework comprises the study of between two and four Diploma Programme courses (at least one of which must be at Higher Level) alongside the distinctive Career-Related Programme core and a career-related study course. 

Academic studies

Pupils will choose at least two courses from the six subject groups (see the IBDP choices) and no more than four. Pupils do not have to cover a certain number of groups, but their choice would be linked to and support their professional qualification. 

Vocational studies

These are nationally recognised qualifications that have a practical, hands-on approach to learning and which carry UCAS points. Pupils will choose a qualification depending on their interest and focus. We are currently offering two courses at present:

• Business - Cambridge Technical Diploma
• Sport with Sport Coaching - Cambridge Technical Diploma.

This career-related study prepares pupils for higher education, an internship or apprenticeship, or employment.

The IB Philosophy

‘Education for a better world’

The IB aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Its programmes encourage pupils to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people with their differences can also be right.

The learning style in an IB classroom encourages pupils to become responsible, active members of their community. They learn to empathise with others; value diverse perspectives and cultures; understand how events around the world are interconnected; and solve problems that transcend borders: they learn to explore both sides of a story.

Who is it aimed at?

The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the IB Career-Related Programme are suited to pupils who find the narrower focus of an A level programme too limiting. They allow pupils to combine breadth with depth in their sixth-form studies and provides an opportunity to explore all aspects of their abilities, both inside and outside the classroom.

Both programmes enable pupils to see the world from different viewpoints and equips them to cope better with university study and future careers. Through the programmes, we are able to develop pupils who:

• have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge
• flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically
• study at least two languages
• excel in traditional academic subjects 
• explore the nature of knowledge 
• are able to engage with people in an increasingly globalised, rapidly changing world.