IB Prospectus 2026_paperturn_2 - Flipbook - Page 2
WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA?
Varndean Sixth Form College has been an IB World School since 2008. We chose the
IB because we think it o昀昀ers something exciting and di昀昀erent: a broad, academically
rigorous education for the whole person.
The IB Diploma is taught world-wide and is internationally recognised and
understood by universities and employers as excellent preparation for further study
or employment. It is administered by the International Baccalaureate Organisation,
a body which is independent of any government and which has an international
perspective.
THE MISSION OF THE IB DIPLOMA
To develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young
people who help to create a better and more peaceful
world through intercultural understanding and respect.
Here at Varndean, we like the IB Diploma because it challenges, encourages and
inspires internationally-minded students to become caring, critical thinkers, ready
for university study and a globally focused career. IB students work hard, but get
an education which is neither driven by assessment requirements nor subject to
any Government policy. The course encourages them to open-minded, intellectually
curious and keen to learn. They seem to have a lot of fun too!
WHAT DOES THE IB
PROGRAMME INVOLVE?
The IB Diploma di昀昀ers from A-levels in its breadth,
as well as its integration as a complete programme
of study.
All students are required to study English Literature, a
MFL, Humanities subject, Natural Science and Maths.
However students have lots of options and opportunities
to customise their Diploma to suit their needs, interests
and career aspirations.
At present we are the only state funded provider of the IB
Diploma in the county of Sussex and achieve world beating
results in the process.
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Students choose one course
from each of the six subject
areas, three at Higher Level
and three at Standard Level.
The content of Standard Level
courses is smaller than that of
Higher Level and they are usually a
little less demanding, meaning
they are taught over fewer hours.
It's important to point out that if you take the IB you are not studying
towards 6 A Levels but you will have a few more lessons during the week than
your peers studying A Levels! Assessment objectives overlap between subject
areas and the Core components of the Diploma draw those six separate
subjects together into one complete and coherent programme of study.
