AN OVERVIEW
AN OVERVIEW
THE IB DIPLOMA
Narrow specialisation post-16 is unique to the UK . This specialisation acts against the values of a broad education and is an impediment to versatility and understanding .
Sevenoaks School therefore decided to introduce the International Baccalaureate Diploma in 1978 .
Designed to promote a global perspective , understanding and communication , the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ’ s values and identity have remained consistent . The IB Diploma encourages students to value conflict resolution , to respect cultural heritage and the environment and to develop an attitude of responsibility to the wider community .
Worldwide , the IB Diploma is now taken by over 175,000 students from 149 countries .
The breadth of the Diploma Programme encourages an interdisciplinary style of learning . Students develop expert knowledge in the topics that most interest them , but are also encouraged to look beyond the traditional boundaries between academic disciplines , think critically across the curriculum and to appreciate and analyse multiple perspectives .
Despite this breadth , the six courses are all Ofqualrated as being comparable at least to A-levels in their depth , and this strength of breadth and depth is one of the reasons why IB students are very effectively prepared for university and for the future workplace .
Universities really like the IB ; by maintaining its standards , free from state interference , the IB has succeeded in achieving a consistency of assessment unparalleled elsewhere . Its 45-point scale enables universities to make more nuanced offers to candidates than are possible under other schemes . IB students start their undergraduate careers with numeracy , literacy and language competency , a broad understanding of a range of disciplines , and strong employability skills such as teamwork and problem-solving . They are experienced at managing a varied workload and can question , reflect and think critically .
As a consequence , the offer and acceptance rates for IB students are notably higher than those for other post-16 qualifications , and in the US , it is a sought-after passport to top universities .
Sevenoaks has been a flagship school for the IB for many years . The IB provides what parents , universities and employers want – access to top universities , very impressive students and well-rounded , resourceful employees – but just as importantly , it encourages inquiry , reflection and delight in learning . Students leave us with a modern and international worldview and a desire to shape and to improve the world .
Chris Taylor Academic Deputy Head
4 THE IB AT SEVENOAKS | THE DIPLOMA