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Choosing the right curriculum is one of the biggest decisions you will make for your child’s future. Many parents often face the same dilemma, “What if we choose the wrong path?”,“Will my child cope academically?", and “Will they get good University Offers?”
At Swiss International Scientific School, we support families through this decision every day. We understand that the decision is not always about the subjects, it is about choosing a learning experience that will shape your child's confidence, curiosity, wellbeing and most importantly, their future.
As a parent, you always want the best for your child. Choosing a curriculum, whether it is British, International Baccalaureate (IB), American, or CBSE, can feel overwhelming, especially when you think about how it might shape their future university options and career paths. The good news is that all these systems are respected worldwide. There is no right or wrong choice. What matters most is finding an approach that best suits your child’s learning style, interests, and long-term goals.If you are exploring school options for your child, we recommend applying early in the year. Most leading schools reach their capacity early on in the year, and waiting until spring or summer can limit availability, particularly in popular year groups/grades.
The IB and British curriculum, both offer strong academic foundations, but they suit different learners.
Area | British Curriculum | IB Curriculum |
Learning approach | Structured and subjectfocused, stepbystep progression | Concept based, encouraging students to explore ideas across subjects |
Assessment style | Regular exams and standard tests,successismeasured by knowledge of the syllabus | Balanced assessment through projects, presentations, and reflective work alongwithexams |
Classroom experience | Led by teachers, with clear instructions and expectations | Focuses on students, with opportunities for discussion, research, and independent thinking |
Skills development | Builds strong academic knowledge and exam readiness | Develops critical thinking, problemsolvingskillsand global awareness |
Flexibility | Follows a set path in each subject,students deepen knowledge in core areas | Encourages connections between subjects and personal exploration |
Student profile | Routine, structure, and clear targets | Curiosity,self-confidence andmotivation, and real-lifeapplications |
Global recognition | Widely recognised, especially in the UK andEnglish-speakingcountries | Highly regarded worldwideandvalued by universities in the UK, US, Europe, and beyond |
Extracurricular integration | Co-curricular activities offered alongside academic schedule | Extracurriculars, community projects, and international experiences |
The IB curriculum supports children who ask questions, enjoy making connections between subjects, and want to understand the world beyond the classroom. Over time, these students often develop strong communication skills, independence, and a thoughtful approach to learning, shaped by the core qualities that define IB.
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As the Best IB school in Dubai, SISD offers the full IB experience with a strong focus on student wellbeing and academic excellence.
Learning goes beyond textbooks. Students take part in STEAM projects, global learning experiences, and extracurricular activities including sports, arts, and leadership programmes. Our students regularly showcase their work through exhibitions, performances, and community initiatives. Parents, who are new to the IB system, often tell us they see growth not just in grades, but in confidence, resilience, and independence.
The IB offers wider opportunities for students both within and beyond the classroom, includingresearch projects, community service, leadership experiences, and international learning opportunities.
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When it comes to university recognition, both IB and British qualifications are widely recognised. Universities in more than 100 countries accept IB applicants, and many offer credit or advanced standing for strong Higher Level scores.
At SISD, our graduates are accepted into leading universities in the UK and internationally, including University of St Andrews, École hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL University), King’s College London, University of Birmingham, University of London, University College London (UCL), Durham University, University of Sheffield, University of Manchester,and many more.
Entry requirements vary by country and course.
UK universities typically focus on total IB points and Higher Level grades.
In the US, institutions may award course credits for high IB results.
In Spain and other European systems, IB points convert to national scales for entry.
Our university guidance team supports students from middle years, helping them make informed choices and prepare strong applications worldwide. At SISD, we have an IB Diploma Programme, that prepares students for leading universities worldwide with a bilingual learning environment, IB-trained teachers and personalised subject choices.
Inclusive education and student wellbeing
We pair academics with wellbeingand individual support, providing strong personal development and guidance on our campus.
Global learning and languages
Our bilingual pathways build true multilingual competence in English, French, and German, a rare offer in the Middle East. This supports global mobility and European university options.
STEAM education benefits
In the English stream, students gain additional STEAM integration in early and primary years, strengthening problem solving and creativity.
You do not need to make this choice alone.
Book a school tour, meet our IB specialists, and let us help you map the right path for your child. Contact our admissions team today toexplore the best learning path.