IB Diploma Programme

The IB Diploma Programme (DP) supports the aims of College to challenge and extend our girls by developing a passion for discovery and learning. The IB DP is a two-year course of studies that suits well-motivated students with a breadth of interests. It is a rigorous qualification that is recognised by universities in the UK and across the world.

There is an emphasis on the development of research and critical reflection, and on the importance of individual commitment to creativity, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and service to others. The global awareness and cultural understanding that is inherent in the IB is particularly well-suited to the values of College.

The IB DP has a university-style approach to teaching and learning and prepares students for university life and beyond with an emphasis on key transferable skills identified in the IB Learner Profile. The range of assessment within the DP develops excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

IB students choose six subjects in addition to the core components. Three of the subjects are taken at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL), one from each of the six groups in the DP Model and they study them for two years (five terms). 

The Groups

Group 1
Studies in Language and Literature - most girls will study English Literature.

Group 2
Language Acquisition - the study of a second language.

Group 3
Individuals and Societies - the Humanities.

Group 4
Sciences.

Group 5
Mathematics.

Group 6
The Arts – this group also contains the elective which allows students to choose another subject from Groups 2 to 4 if they wish.

The Core

The Core is central to the Diploma Programme and it embodies the philosophy of the IB. It consists of the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Creativity, Activity & Service Programme (CAS). The core must be successfully completed in order to be awarded the Diploma.

The Extended Essay (EE)
This is a piece of academic research chosen from any one of the subjects in the six groups. It develops research skills, enables the student to practise the thesis approach to writing required at university and to experience the excitement of intellectual challenge and discovery.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
This programme of study enables students to make connections between different areas of knowledge and encourages them to consider the cultural, social and moral aspects of knowledge.

Creativity, Action & Service (CAS)
IB students are required to be involved in activities in each of the three CAS areas - meeting personal aims, challenges and working with others. Over the two years of the IB Diploma Programme, CAS will contribute a minimum of 150 hours.

For more information about the IB, please visit the IB website.