The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a holistic programme which gives you a broad post 16 education whilst also allowing you to specialise in three subjects. You will take three Standard Level subjects and three Higher Level subjects as well as the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and the Creativity, Activity and Service Programme (CAS). Each subject is graded from 1-7 with the diploma core (Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay) giving 3 more points depending on the combination of grades in these components. Students must achieve a minimum total of 24 points to pass the Diploma Programme.
Each week you will receive lessons in your 6 subjects (typically 4 lessons for higher level and 3 for standard level) as well as lessons in Theory of Knowledge (TOK). You will also receive sessions to develop writing and research skills needed for the Extended Essay. This is a piece of academic writing where you choose the subject, topic and research question to produce an answer in a 4,000 word research report. The CAS programme is a non-graded component which encourages students to set objectives in creative, active and service experiences outside of the classroom. Each subject has a coursework component worth at least 20% meaning the whole grade does not rest on the final exams.
An internationally recognised qualification, the IBDP will give you access to the most competitive universities worldwide. With the DP developing more than just subject knowledge, universities see it as a perfect higher education preparation programme. As all students study English Language and Literature, you will meet the language requirement of most universities that deliver courses in English. The IBDP programme also continues a student’s study in Mathematics. Students completing the IBDP programme continue to study Mathematics and English throughout their Secondary education and are then able to demonstrate 4 years of study in Mathematics and English during the application process. The IB Diploma, due to its holistic nature and its requirements, is highly valued by universities worldwide.
Through coursework components, the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge, you will learn to think critically, write well constructed, balanced arguments and write using an academic structure. The CAS programme develops skills to ensure you are a well-rounded student who has lots of experiences beyond the classroom to make you really stand out in university applications and interviews.
IB Diploma Programme courses options on offer at Sunmarke:
