The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a 2-year course of study, taken by students in Years 12 & 13 following assessment, separate exams or a Pre IB one year course for International students. The IB is a qualification which is internationally recognised for entrance to Universities .

IB Diploma students must take one subject from 6 categories and  places significant focus on research, project work, and essay writing.

Students choose at least one subject from each of the following categories: Language and Literature, a Foreign Language (which can be a student’s native language), Individuals and Societies (e.g. Geography, History, Economics, Philosophy), The Sciences, Mathematics, The Creative and Performing Arts. All students must also study the IB core made up of The Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Action and Service (CAS), Extended Essay.

Students must take at least three subjects at the higher level and complete the IB core elements to achieve the Diploma.

Assessments in many of the subjects involve a written examination which students take at the end of the course in addition to coursework and several in-school assessment tasks (IAs).

Students receive a grade for each subject area ranging from 1 to 7 (the highest) with a minimum points total of 24 being a pass.

The IB is a good choice for students who wish to study a wide range of subjects, recognising that they will also have to address areas of weakness.