IB course – IBDP

The International Baccalaureate is an internationally recognised two-year course of study, usually taken between the ages of 16 and 18, which leads to university entrance. At present, the IB course is offered in English, French and Spanish. At St George’s, the subjects are naturally studied in English, which has the added advantage of preparing pupils not only for universities in Germany but also for study at any one of the many prestigious universities in the English-speaking world.

The IB differs from A-levels in that it requires all-round ability in a wide range of subjects, including the arts and sciences, both of which must be studied to obtain the diploma. The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course develops pupils’ critical acumen and the Extended Essay (EE) serves to provide an introduction to research techniques, as required later at the university stage. The IB also involves extra-curricular activities designed to develop the pupils’ social and critical awareness (CAS), thus helping them to play their role to the full in an increasingly complex world, as well as preparing them for the challenges that await them in their professional lives.

It is important to highlight that the holistic view of education taken by the IB course is embodied in the requirements of the course. In order to obtain the diploma, all parts of the Hexagon (see attachment) must be completed successfully, including CAS, TOK and EE. A pupil who opts for the IB must possess proven diligence and consistency to present coursework on time and be prepared for the written exams, which unlike the A-levels, have no module structure and are taken in one sitting after two years.

Subjects and Classes – IB Course

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP or IB) offers a holistic approach to Further Education in the Post-16 educational sphere. The IBDP is an integrated programme offering pupils the chance to continue to study a wide range of subject areas with cross-curricular links, enabling pupils to develop themselves as truly international global citizens.

At the heart of the IB lies the Hexagon; an integrated collection of subjects which are divided into six topic areas. Pupils must choose one subject from each topic area. Each subject can usually be studied at Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL) and pupils must complete three subjects at Higher Level and three subjects at Standard Level.