Sixth Form: International Baccalaureat Diploma Programme

The Sixth Form at St Edward’s College marks the beginning of an exciting and transformative journey. As an IB World School, we proudly offer the International Baccalaureat Diploma Programme (IBDP) – a globally recognised qualification that prepares students for success at university and beyond. At St Edward’s, our Sixth Form is a vibrant, inclusive community where students are encouraged to think independently, explore their interests, and grow into confident, compassionate individuals. The IBDP is academically rigorous and intellectually stimulating, combining a broad curriculum with opportunities for personal development through creativity, activity, and service. With the support of experienced teachers, university guidance, and a tailored academic environment, our Sixth Formers are empowered to reach their full potential. Our diverse student body brings global perspectives into the classroom, enriching discussion and fostering international-mindedness. Whether your goal is to lie in science, the arts, humanities, or business, the IBDP at St Edward’s will equip you with the skills, knowledge, and values needed for a successful future.

Why Choose IBDP?

Established in 1968, IBDP was the first programme offered by the IB Organisation and is a two-year, pre-University programme taught to students aged between 16 and 19. It focuses on personal, professional and academic development and is globally recognised by universities for the holistic and rigorous education it provides. The IB works consistently to make sure the DP is globally recognised by universities, with its students gaining competitive offers for further study.

Since its inception, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) at St Edward’s College has had exceptional scores. The College’s students have reached an average of 83% when compared to the international average of 79%.

St Edward’s College was authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) commencing September 2009. It is one of the two sections in which we accept a co-educational cohort.

Worldwide Recognition

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is recognised and respected by the world’s leading universities. It is accepted by most major universities, including the University of Malta, Oxbridge, Sorbonne, and Harvard. IB world schools are present in over 156 countries and send results directly to universities in over 90 of those countries.

Feedback collected from a wide range of IB graduates suggests that IB students have an easier time adjusting to university studies. Students graduate from the IB Diploma Programme as more well-rounded students than when they began, giving them a head start at university life.

The IB Learner Profile

The International Baccalaureate (IB) learner profile describes a broad range of human capacities and responsibilities that go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others, and the world around them. Each of the IB’s programmes is committed to the development of students according to the 1B learner profile. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

• Inquirers
• Knowledgeable
• Thinkers
• Communicators
• Principled
• Open-minded
• Caring
• Risk-takers
• Balanced
• Reflective

Every IB program and school is committed to the development of students towards becoming more internationally minded, well-rounded, and compassionate individuals who can be a positive influence on society.

Bridging the Gap

Over the two-year course, students work to obtain the IB Diploma, which is a character-building experience, creating “active learners” who are prepared to deal with and cope with tertiary education in ways that no other system does.

The IB Diploma effectively bridges the gap between post-secondary education to tertiary education and eliminates many of those barriers and hurdles that many students find difficult to cope with at university, such as presentations, thesis.

The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core, comprising theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS), and the extended essay. Students will have to choose six subjects – 3 at a Higher Level and 3 at a Standard Level. Students’ choices will reflect the courses they wish to pursue at the tertiary level.