International Baccalaureate

What is the IB?

The International Baccalaureate Diploma is a rigorous and highly regarded pre-university course of studies that provides excellent and coherent education preparing students efficiently for university and beyond. Students are exposed to the two great traditions of learning: the Humanities and the Sciences. As an educational package, it uniquely blends breadth and depth of knowledge, thus allowing a student to pursue areas of personal interest whilst meeting special requirements for university entrance.

How does it work?

Students choose six subjects, normally three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level that must include their first language, a second language, a science, a social science and mathematics. In addition, students write an Extended Essay (a research piece of 4000 words), follow a course in the Theory of Knowledge (practical philosophy) and spend the equivalent of one half day a week on some form of creative, aesthetic activity or active community service. Because there are nine components in the Diploma, IB students are taught and learn how to organise themselves, think (and, crucially, how to keep on learning) independently and cogently.

Examples of Menus:

King William’s College offers a wide range of subject combinations. The following two examples merely indicate the mixture of breadth and specialisation the IB offers:

Example 1: This student wants to read medicine.
Higher Level Chemistry, Standard Level English
Higher Level Biology, Standard Level Mathematics Studies
Higher Level History, Standard Level French

Example 2: This student wants to study business/administration/international law
Higher Level Economics, Standard Level Mathematics Studies
Higher Level Spanish, Standard Level Design Technology
Higher Level English, Standard Level Geography

The IBO has produced General Regulations for the Diploma Programme: parents and students are expected to read this document which sets out, amongst other things, the areas of responsibilities of the IBO and of IB schools. A student's enrolment in the Diploma at King William's College will be assumed as acceptance of the conditions by his or her parents / guardians.  Read the General Regulations

Links: www.ibo.org

To find out more about the advantages of the International Baccalaureate, please contact the Admissions Office.

Click here to download a Guide to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme