International Baccalaureate



Background

Bermuda High School has been authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma since 2000. Our first IB students began classes in 2001 and took examinations in 2003 with 100% pass rate. Over the ensuing years we have expanded both in student intake and in our physical plant. We are housed in our own IB Centre, situated to the north of the campus. Our pass rate remains above the world average at 80%.

Since its foundation the IB Diploma has become a symbol of academic integrity and intellectual promise.  Its reputation for rigorous assessment gives International Baccalaureate diploma holders access to the world’s leading universities and ensures solid preparation for academic success.

The Course in Outline

IB students are required to take six subjects. They must take one subject from each of the groups shown on the hexagon below.  Of these six subjects at least three must be taken at a Higher Level and three at a Standard Level.

Assessment of the Diploma

All subjects carry coursework requirements; however, the majority of the course is assessed via examination at the end of the IB 2 year.  Both Higher and Standard subject papers are awarded a grade from 1 (the lowest )- 7 (the highest). There are therefore 42 points available from the six subjects.  In addition to this, a further three “Diploma” points can be earned if a student performs very well in the Theory of Knowledge paper and/or the Extended Essay, giving a full total of 45 points.

In order to obtain a diploma a candidate must score a minimum of 24 points, and also pass most subjects at grade 3 or above. A detailed list of ‘failing conditions’ can be provided on request. Candidates must also submit an Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge work which is at least elementary in standard. CAS requirements must also be met.

 

In Summary

The Diploma course is academic, wide-ranging and demanding. It is recognised by universities world-wide. While it is certainly not necessary to be naturally brilliant in every subject to take the course, students should be able to maintain a high level of organisation and motivation.

The IB is undoubtedly an excellent preparation for further education, the increasingly international workplace and our rapidly changing society.

THE COURSE IN DETAIL

Guidance on subject choice

When making subject choices students should take in to consideration:

  1. Aptitude and prior attainment: there is no point in choosing a course which will prove to be beyond the ability of the student.
  2. Interest: just as important.
  3. Career and further education: someone wishing to read medicine would have to take two sciences at Higher Level, for example.
  4. The requirements of the university system into which a student will wish to gain entry after leaving school. Germany, for example, has very specific requirements, While we are happy to give advice, it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that any such requirements are met.
  5. As stated above, three subjects must be chosen at Higher Level, and three at Standard Level.
  6. Subjects are on offer subject to there being sufficient demand. We anticipate the following pattern, within which choices should be made where possible:

Group 1

Language A1

First Language i.e. English.

Group 2

Language A2, B, ab initio

Second Language e.g. French,  Spanish  or Latin.

Group 3

Individuals and Societies

History, Geography, Business & Management, Economics, ITGS, Peace & Conflict Studies, Environmental Systems & Societies.

Group 4

Experimental Sciences

Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Environmental Systems & Societies.

Group 5

Maths

Maths [Higher or Standard] or Maths Studies.

Group 6

Arts and Electives

Visual Arts, Music, Theatre or another subject from groups 2, 3 or 4.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Course descriptions. 

IB Application Form

School Profile

For advice on subject choice please contact:
The Head of IB, Mrs. Kate Ross.
Telephone: 278 3016 or email ib.coordinator@bhs.bm.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
The school timetable starts to take shape during the Easter holidays. Preferences are more likely to be met if choice forms are submitted early – preferably before January 31st.