The International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) is a two-year programme which provides an academically challenging and broad curriculum for well-motivated Sixth Form students. It provides an excellent basis for further study at university and work in a global job market.
The IB is based on a holistic approach to education. You are required to study six academic subjects, as well as complete the following core components: Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and the Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) programme. In this way, you can keep a broad range of subjects without compromising depth of study. The Diploma encourages independent thinking, deep analysis and supports learning outside the classroom. All of this fits perfectly with the educational philosophy of Brentwood School.
The two-year course is not interrupted by modular examinations; IB students mature and gain confidence in their chosen subjects before they sit public examinations. The IB encourages you to keep an open mind and have greater flexibility. You are not forced into a narrow selection of subjects too early in their education. The six subject groupings ensure that you continue with vital subjects and that you build up confidence in them, rather than prematurely giving up on them.
The latest research by the Higher Education Statistics Authority (HESA) shows that IB students have more chance of achieving a place at a top 20 university than other students and are more likely to achieve a 2:1 or a 1st class degree. They are also more likely to work in graduate level employment.
Brentwood's ambitious IB programme offers an unusually wide range of subjects, namely:
English A1 (for native speakers), German A2 (for bilingual students), German B, French B, Spanish B, (for those studying a second or third language) Italian and Spanish ab initio (for beginners), Latin, Ancient Greek, History, Geography, Philosophy, Psychology, Economics, Business Management, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Mathematical Studies, Music, Visual Arts and Theatre.
Reseach by HESA shows IB students are more successful at university and in employment that other students.
IB Booklet.pdf