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