The IBDP is a challenging two-year course aimed at students aged 16-19. It leads to a qualification that is widely welcomed by the world’s leading universities and employers. IB students learn more than a collection of facts. The Diploma Programme prepares students for further study and employment by encouraging them to ask searching questions; learn how to learn. Students also develop a strong sense of their own identity and culture, together with the ability to communicate with and respect people from other countries and cultures.
What is in the curriculum?
Students are required to choose one subject from each of the 6 academic groups (or alternatively they can choose a second subject from groups 1 to 5 instead of a group 6 subject). Normally, students study 3 subjects at Higher Level (HL), and 3 subjects at Standard Level (SL).
Whether studied at Higher or Standard Level, all subjects are weighted the same in the final Diploma, but more time is given to the teaching of HL subjects.
In addition, all students complete the ‘IB Core’ which consists of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), an Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).
- TOK encourages students to reflect upon the nature of knowledge and what it means to know.
- The EE enables all students to develop independent research skills by exploring a topic of their choice, related to one of their IB courses; these skills are particularly favoured by universities.
- CAS enables students to get involved in the world around them; to learn through experience in a range of activities.