Choosing the right school for our children is a tough decision and often times, it’s not just about about the school reputation and proximity, but also the curriculum taught and the qualifications awarded.
IB (International Baccalaureate) and GCE A Levels (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) are both education systems and international school education programs.
However, both of them follow their own teaching approach and for instance are structured quite differently.
IB (International Baccalaureate)
Formerly known as International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), it was founded in the year 1968, and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
IB is a framework for delivering international education that strives to prepare students to thrive in an increasingly globalised world.
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
The IBDP curriculum is comprised of six core subject groups, plus the DP core. The DP core is required and consists of the following elements: Theory of Knowledge (reflection on knowledge and how we know what we know) The Extended Essay (independent research project) Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
The six subject groups include:
Studies in language and literature, Language acquisition (learning a second language), Individuals and societies, Sciences, Maths, The Arts
The first five subject groups are mandatory — students must take a course from each group. They have flexibility in choosing their sixth subject, though. They may choose to study an arts course or may opt for another course from one of the other five subject groups.
Courses are offered at both a standard level and a higher level, with the higher level being more advanced (240 teaching hours compared to the standard level’s 150). Students must take 3–4 subjects at the higher level, and the rest at the standard level.
GCE A levels
Originating in the UK and adopted by a number of other countries, A-level stands for Advanced Level, and is an academic qualification earned upon successful completion of an exam.
Like the GCSE and IGCSE, A-levels are subject-specific. A-levels are taken around age 18 (at the end of year 13). A-levels give students an opportunity to undertake specialised study in a few subjects, and their successful completion is an entry requirement for many universities. Students seeking admission will usually sit for at least three A-levels.
How the IBDP compares to GCE A-levels?
Compared to A-levels, the IB Diploma is less specialised. Students usually write three to four A-levels, while students in the IB Diploma complete six courses from at least five subjects, plus the DP core. Less specialisation also means a higher workload, some students find the IBDP programme very demanding.
While A-levels offer specialisation, some consider the broader scope of the IB Diploma to be superior preparation for university. After all, many students have not yet decided which subjects they want to focus on in university, so getting a more well-rounded education can be beneficial.
Final Notes
There is no shortage of education options available for kids now, they are fortunate to have the opportunities to adopt an education framework that works for them. New approaches and methods of assessment are becoming more holistic. It’s important to learn about the different options available to you and your children.