International Baccalaureate

St. Helen’s offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) as an alternative to A levels.

The IB programme encourages students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners. Further information about the IB’s philosophy and aims can be found on its website.

Core to the programme are three elements: Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and Creativity, Action and Service.

Theory of Knowledge encourages students to: question the bases of knowledge; develop the ability to analyse evidence; and critically evaluate information from a wide range of sources whilst appreciating cultural perspectives. Students are expected to question knowledge itself and examine what they know, how they came about knowing it and to think whether it is likely to be true or not. It takes them beyond traditional subject boundaries.

The Extended Essay gives students the opportunity to investigate a topic of special interest, adding breadth and depth to their studies. It also enables students to become acquainted with the kind of independent research and writing skills that are expected by universities.

In addition to their academic studies, IB Diploma students are required to complete a minimum of 50 hours of Creativity, Action and Service.  Girls are able to get involved with activities that are new and creative, that involve physical activity to varying degrees and that benefit others. For example, three IB students were recently involved with a community art event that will contribute to CAS. The log book that is part of this provides formal recognition of the extra-mural activities that St. Helen’s are involved in.

As well as this core programme, girls studying the IB choose six subjects, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. One subject is chosen from each of the following groups:

1.  Language A: English

2.  Language B: French, German, Spanish or Classical Languages (Latin) with beginners’ courses in German, Italian, Japanese or Spanish

3.  Individuals and Societies: Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Thought or Psychology

4.  Experimental Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Design and Technology

5.  Mathematics: for a wide range of mathematical aptitudes

6.  Electives: Visual Arts, Theatre Arts, Music or a second subject from groups 2,3 or 4

The characteristics of the IB: breadth and depth; critical thinking; and global vision, will provide girls with transferable skills that are essential for lifelong learning.

“I love the internationalism that is within the IB course. As well as having a world recognised qualification, subjects incorporate and explore other cultures from foreign novels and international history to Japanese food and traditions. The IB gives you a chance to try something different.”

“The IB gives students more freedom and independence with learning, something that emphasis is placed on at university.”

“The IB integrates both the humanities and sciences to provide you with a wider spectrum of knowledge. The curriculum is exciting, full of unique activities and assignments.”

“The breadth of the IB encourages you to reach your full potential.  As well as being a demanding and challenging course, it is also very rewarding, especially the extended essay component which enables you to explore an interest in depth as well as develop skills of independent learning.”

“The international aspect of the IB curriculum not only raises worldwide awareness but links people and cultures across the world. It offers a stimulating alternative to the national curriculum encompassing both breadth and depth.”

“Undertaking the IB course meant that I was able to keep a variety of options open, and continue the subjects I love. The experience has been truly pivotal in bringing together and linking every subject; this adds to the appreciation of each in a broader context.”

“The IB allows me to keep in touch with the world. I love the fact that the IB is international as I feel learning about other countries and cultures ensures cultural understanding, which is vital; especially with growing interdependence and globalisation.”