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AGES 11–18

OUR SECONDARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM

At The British College of Brazil, we deliver the highest quality high school education in São Paulo, which prepares our students for life at university and beyond. We teach the English National Curriculum in Key Stage 3 and IGCSEs at Key Stage 4, which prepare our students for the challenge and opportunities of our IB school’s world-renowned International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
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THE BRITISH COLLEGE OF BRAZIL SECONDARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM

The British College of Brazil is one of the top IGCSE schools and IB schools in São Paulo.


Our students’ secondary education begins in Key Stage 3 with the English National Curriculum. They then go on to study the IGCSE curriculum – which is provided by the Cambridge University International Examinations Board – in Key Stage 4.


We then offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. Recognised as one of the finest IB schools in Brazil, our programme is the ideal springboard to the world’s best universities. Our students study modules in Languages and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individual and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts, as well as three core IB school components: the ‘Theory of Knowledge’, an ‘Extended Essay’, and ‘Creativity, Activity, Service.’

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ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH

We understand that robust academic results are essential to success beyond The British College of Brazil’s high school, and our secondary school curriculum provides every opportunity for our students to excel and reach the university of their choice.

Success in life, however, requires more than good grades. It requires confidence, independence, presence, the ability to lead, and the discipline to apply oneself. Our commitment to helping students develop these attributes is in our School Charter. It also relies on our rich and varied international and British high school programme.

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KEY STAGE 3 CURRICULUM

At Key Stage 3, subjects are taught by specialists in their fields. Each class tutor has the important pastoral role of coordinating all aspects of our students’ academic and social growth, however. The class tutor also delivers our PSHE (personal, social, health, and economic education) programme, which includes global citizenship.

We offer a balanced programme which is similar to that offered in a top British high school. Students study English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Drama, Art, Computing, Music, and PE. They can also study at least one Modern Foreign Language.

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KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM: IGCSEs

In Years 10 and 11, students at our IGCSE school in São Paulo choose from a broad range of subject options, which are provided and assessed by the UK’s Cambridge University International Examinations Board (CIE).

The two-year IGCSE school programme is globally recognised as one of the best and most rigorous academic courses for this age group of students. The IGCSE curriculum culminates in exams that lead to formal qualifications.

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KEY STAGE 5 CURRICULUM: IB DIPLOMA

The British College of Brazil is proud to belong to the prestigious International Baccalaureate family, as well as being one of the top IB schools in São Paulo.

Our International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a two-year course that prepares students for further study at university. It also develops the skills they need to become independent learners and problem solvers, who will succeed in our rapidly changing world.

Our IB school Diploma Programme is a highly respected and world-renowned curriculum. It offers a holistic approach to teaching and learning, while also focusing on the development of global citizenship and skills for the future.

WHAT DOES OUR TOP IB SCHOOL IN SÃO PAULO OFFER?

The British College of Brazil’s International Baccalaureate (IB) students study six subject groups: Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts. Our learners also have the option to select a subject from the ‘Individual and Societies’ or ‘Sciences’ blocks, instead of ‘The Arts’, if they prefer.


Three of these subject groups are taken at higher level and three at standard level.

Your child will also need to complete the core IB school programme: Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service.


Students need to get at least 24 points to achieve their Diploma, including a minimum of 12 in higher level subjects and nine in standard level subjects.

Completing the core programme scores three points.
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK): a course that explores critical thinking, giving students an understanding of how we learn.
  • The Extended Essay: a 4,000-word independent research project focusing on a specific subject.
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): a range of activities that develop creative skills, enhance wellbeing, and support our local community.
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A TYPICAL DAY AT OUR BRITISH HIGH SCHOOL IN SÃO PAULO

Our older students’ days are challenging and uplifting, as they grow in confidence, follow their passions, and sharpen their talents alongside friends from around the world.
EXPLORE OUR DAILY SCHEDULE
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READY TO SHINE
Our teachers and energetic Head of Secondary greet us as we enter school and feel comfortable telling them how we’re doing, what we’re struggling with, or what we’re excited about. Their tailored recommendations help us feel at ease and boost our overall happiness. We might even have a special breakfast during Mock Exams for IGCSEs or the IBDP.
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STARTING THE DAY
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IGCSE AND IBDP PREP
We’re always exploring what fascinates us and can unlock our passions through a variety of subjects and activities at BCB – like music, drama, and dance through our Juilliard curriculum. Every class presents us with ways to excel on IGCSEs and the IBDP, so we can attend our first-choice university and do or be whatever we want in the future.
EXPLORING OUR INTERESTS
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LUNCHTIME PLAY
We pause at midday to come together with friends over a nutritious lunch, catching up with each other and strengthening our bonds. We can make our own choices, like going for a walk outside, relaxing in the IB lounges, spending time in the library, or playing a sport with friends. Taking a break always nourishes our minds and well-being.
MAKING CHOICES
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STEAM LAB
In our Maker Lab and STEAM laboratories, we can learn beyond the typical science and math curricula, getting our hands into projects and challenges that encourage us to think outside the box! We apply what we’ve been learning through demonstrations or by building models, while increasing our skills with the newest technology and tools.
BECOMING INNOVATIVE
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CREATING OUR FUTURE
We meet one-on-one with our university counsellor, who helps us figure out what we might do with our interests. We’ll consider different options and get ready to apply to university. We also might shadow someone in their job, attend career fairs, or participate in workshops with BCB parents who can share insights into their professions.
BECOMING PREPARED
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NURTURING OUR PASSIONS
After classes, we can relax into our favourite activities alongside our classmates – nurturing our own collaborative bonds and friendships. We might get ready for a stage performance in our Juilliard-inspired music rehearsals or to win the championship with our sports team. By following what we enjoy, we feel happy and fulfilled in our BCB community.
CONNECTING WITH EACH OTHER
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HOW WE TEACH

COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE

The leading International Baccalaureate (IB) school in São Paulo – and home to highly qualified native English-speaking staff – The British College Brazil delivers outstanding teaching and learning. Our teachers provide the support, challenge, and inspiration our older students need to achieve outstanding academic success – and flourish as individuals.
Our Teachers
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OUR FACILITIES

AN IB SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT FIT FOR THE FUTURE

Set amidst verdant greenery, our high school in São Paulo, Chácara Flora campus, is a collaborative, flexible, and exciting environment for our Secondary students.

Creativity and innovation abound here, as our IGCSE and International Baccalaureate students pursue their passions and learn in new and extraordinary ways. Inspired by dedicated arts and STEAM spaces, smart indoor classrooms, and fantastic sports facilities, your child will achieve more than they ever imagined possible.

Discover Our Campus

A PERSONALISED JOURNEY TO SUCCESS

We put our students’ best interests at the heart of everything we do at The British College of Brazil’s British high school. Our teachers will tailor your child’s journey, supporting and challenging them to become a problem solver and critical thinker – so they’ll be fit for success, no matter what the future brings.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AT BCB
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