Research Upper School education options
First, research the options available in your area. Some local Upper Schools may have specific paths dedicated to international programmes. You may also find institutions that specialise in international education specifically. International schools, like The British School Warsaw, often offer more than one programme for your child to choose from.
In your research, you are likely to come across definitions like Pre-IB Programme, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and A-Levels. Each of these pathways is designed to prepare your child for the world’s top universities in a different way.
Pre-IB, IB or A-Levels – what’s the best choice
The IB Diploma Programme and A-Levels are the Upper School programmes for children aged 16-18. Both are globally recognised qualifications, highly regarded by top universities worldwide. The IB Diploma Programme is generally more extensive in terms of subjects – students are required to take up six in comparison to three or four studied at the A-Levels. The A-Levels, though, allow students a deeper understanding of the topics introduced during the classes.
The Pre-IB Programme differs from the other two. It doesn’t prepare for the University directly but rather offers a smooth transition into the more demanding IBDP. It’s a one-year preparatory course that allows students to discover their strengths and interests that will help them succeed during the IB Diploma Programme.
With so many choices available, how can you be sure of what’s best suited for your child? The answer will vary depending on the character, interests and skills of each individual student. Below, we provide a short cheat-sheet that might make your decision easier.
The Pre-IB programme is a good choice for students who:
- Require additional academic support in order to successfully tackle the challenges of the IBDP,
- Transferred into the International Programme from their local educational system,
- Missed out on learning opportunities during Year 11.
The IB Diploma Programme is a good choice for students who:
- Desire to maintain proficiency in their mother tongue,
- Are dedicated, independent learners with well-developed organisational skills,
- Prefer a more flexible approach to learning.
The A-Levels are a good choice for students who:
- Excel in specific areas of knowledge and desire to specialise in them in the future,
- Are knowledge-driven, naturally curious and most likely to benefit from a case-study approach to learning.
Learn more about A-Levels in Introducing A-Levels at The British School Warsaw A New Pathway for Senior Students
Support their choice
Ultimately, the choice is theirs to make. Support your children, regardless of what their final decision is going to be. Your belief in them and ongoing support will help build their confidence, which is one of the essential factors to your child’s success.
Naturally, they are going to face hardships and challenges regardless of the path they undertake. Should your child discover along the way that their selected programme is not the right fit, at TBS Warsaw, they don’t have to worry – there’s always an option to change. No matter if they want to transfer from IB to A-Levels, from A-Levels to IB or choose A-Levels after finishing the Pre-IB Programme, we will support their decision to switch. The most important thing is that they find the place that’s right for them.
Encourage their growth
Formal education plays a vital role in a child’s development, however what they take away from home is equally significant. If you wish to support your children in excelling at international programmes such as IB and A-Levels, it’s imperative that you nurture their curiosity and thirst for knowledge.
There are numerous ways in which you can help them grow:
- Expose them to museums, theatres and cultural initiatives,
- Encourage reading – both relevant to school subjects and those aligned with your child’s personal interests,
- Nurture the development of independent learning,
- Show interest in the topics they are covering at school.
Engaging in these activities can not only enhance their chances of succeeding academically but also provide valuable opportunities for spending more time together with your children.
