Upper Secondary School (High School Equivalent) Age Range
This is a two-year program for students aged 14 to 16, and will enable your child to complete the internationally recognized IGCSE qualifications.
Leader of Secondary
Julie Tombs, Leader of Secondary
Curriculum Followed: Understanding the IGCSE
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. It is recognized by leading colleges, universities and employers worldwide. the IGCSE offers an international passport to progression and success.
Your child will typically study nine subjects over six terms. After two years of study they will be assessed through exams marked by examining boards based in England. They will then be externally awarded an individual subject IGCSE certificate, which gives a useful benchmark of performance at age 16.
Personalization for Secondary School Students
Your son or daughter will have the option to select their IGCSE subjects based on their preferences and their ambitions. We will work with you and your child to help them make the best choices for their future success both in school and beyond. Their progress will be monitored over the two year period to ensure they are on track to succeed.
Subjects and Skills Taught
Compulsory Subjects:
- English Literature
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Statistic
- Students are also encouraged to choose:
-
- One humanities subject
- Two sciences
- One language
Optional Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- French
- Spanish
- History
- Geography
- Physical Education
- Art
- Drama
- Music
Languages
Students are encouraged to choose one subject from either French or Spanish at IGCSE.
Progression to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
Eight IGCSEs at C grade or above is considered to be worth the equivalent of a standard U.S. High School Diploma by the end of Year 11 (U.S. Grade 10). This accelerated academic program is then followed in Years 12-13 (U.S. Grades 11-12) by the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). We are proud to be an IB World School, delivering this well-respected and valued curriculum. IB World Schools share a common philosophy and one that BISC believes is transformative to our students- a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education.
The completion of the IGCSE and IBDP at our school offers an excellent well-rounded educational platform for entry into competitive colleges and universities worldwide.