At PBIS, your child will study a broad spectrum of subjects that will help them thrive, wherever their future plans take them.
Years 7 – 9 (Key Stage 3)
In Key Stage 3 (KS3) all students follow a course involving a wide range of subjects designed to stretch every individual, as well as develop their own particular skills and interests.
Students study two languages: French and German. The courses are designed to develop an interest and enthusiasm for other languages, and to provide a basic grounding for further study of one or more languages at a higher level later in school. Special provision is made for mother tongue speakers of these languages.
During Year 9, students study the three individual sciences (physics, chemistry & biology). Towards the latter half of Year 9, students select the subjects for their IGCSE examination courses for the next two years. This selection process is based upon a wide range of guidance and advice and is undertaken in close consultation with parents and staff.
Years 10 – 11 (IGCSE)
During Years 10 and 11 the majority of students will follow IGCSE courses in 8 or 9 subjects. These subjects are selected by the students in close consultation with parents and staff. Students are encouraged to maintain a broad and balanced curriculum by building upon a core of the following subjects:
- English Language
- English Literature
- Mathematics
- Combined science (OR individual Sciences, biology, chemistry, physics)
- Geography or history
- Information and communication technology
- Modern Foreign Language (French OR German)
- Option 1 – Business studies, drama, art
- Option 2 – Business studies, music, PE
Option blocks are subject to change dependent on student choice.
In addition, all students also follow a physical education programme covering a wide range of sports and activities.
Pre-IB
PBIS offers an alternative to the IGCSE, primarily for students who are enrol at the school aged 15 – 16 who would benefit from a preparatory year before starting the IB. This programme, The Pre-IB, normally takes one year and is not for students who have successfully completed the IGCSE course either at PBS or elsewhere. Download the Pre-IB Curriculum Handbook.
Years 12-13 (IB Programme)
PBIS offers two strands of the IB Programme to cater for students from a range of backgrounds and abilities.
IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous, academically challenging and balanced programme designed to prepare students for success at university and life beyond.
The IBDP is the world’s most prestigious international qualification, respected and sought after by the world’s best universities. A core focus of the whole IB curriculum is to develop internationally minded young people, and encourage critical thinking and continuous self-refection, both in academic courses and through extra-curricular activities.
In 2017 both PBS and EISP students achieved the highest average IB results in Prague and EISP came second within the Nord Anglia family of schools.
The IB Diploma curriculum is made up of 6 subject groups and the core, comprising theory of knowledge (TOK), the extended essay and creativity, action, service (CAS). The core is a compulsory part of the IB Diploma. Students should choose 6 subjects, 1 from each group with 3 at Higher Level (HL) and 3 at Standard Level (SL).
To ensure this we look for the following as minimum entry requirements:
- at least 6 grade A* - Cs at IGCSE or equivalent
- for HL subjects - grade B or above (Maths and Physics require an A grade)
- an outstanding behaviour record or external reference
Some individual subjects will also have their own grade requirements.
IB Careers Programme
The IB Careers Programme (IBCP) is designed for students that are interested in pursuing a careers related education which can lead them to university but can also lead them directly in the world of work.
The IBCP is a framework of international education that incorporates the vision and educational principles of the IB into a unique programme specifically developed for students who wish to engage in career-related learning.
The IBCP’s flexible educational framework allows schools to meet the needs, backgrounds and contexts of students. Each school creates its own distinctive version of the IBCP.
The IB has developed the Career-related Programme to respond to the needs of many young people who would benefit from some aspects of the Diploma Programme and who wish to focus their studies on career preparation. The IBCP thus broadens access to the kinds of learning fostered by the IB in all its programmes, and makes an IB education for the 16-19 age range more inclusive.
The PBIS careers advisors and IB coordinators are happy to discuss the most suitable path with each individual family.
PBIS publishes separate documents outlining in detail the subjects covered in each programme.
To study the IB careers programme students must have:
- 4-5 grades of A* - C at IGCSE or Pre-IB examinations (students must attain a pass in English and Maths)
- for the desired BTEC course, a grade of C or above in a related course