The Senior Years Programme (SYP) at BHS offers a co-educational, two-year programme which prepares students for university. We encompass an educational vision which ensures that BHS graduates not only gain places in the university of their choice, but become critical thinkers and life-long learners.

The SYP Difference

The co-ed Senior Years Programme is unique to the senior educational programmes offered by other schools.

• Multiple Study Pathways - We are the only school on island to offer A Levels in addition to IB. The A Level Programme and the International Baccalaureate Diploma are recognised as being the most internationally accepted education programmes worldwide.

• Individualised Approach - Students benefit from an individualised educational approach with the flexibility to decide their own course of study within the parameters of the A Level and IB requirements. Along with selecting their own subjects, their timetables allow them to manage their own time and create a flexible study schedule.

• Personalised Experience - Each student who comes through our programme receives an individual experience. Our dedicated teaching staff are on hand to ensure that each student achieves academic success that is personalised to their learning style. This individualised attention creates a familial feeling among year groups, ensuring that there is no academic competition.

• University Admissions Guidance - When it comes to applying for tertiary studies, our students have the advantage of turning to a dedicated University Admissions Counsellor. Mrs Kate Ross, is on hand to offer expert guidance to students in selecting the university, and course of study that will guarantee a successful future. 

• Rhode Scholars - Through the Senior Years Programme we have produced 10 Rhode Scholars, all of whom have gone on to achieve great academic and professional success. Our Rhode Scholars include Madison Quig ’19, Emma O’Donnell ’17, Isabelle Stone ’14, Deirdre Collins ’13, Aliyyah Ahad ’08, Eleanor Gardner ’09, M. Alisha Gabriel ’06, Michèle H.B. Smith ’06, Lucy C. Hall ’03, and Christie Hunter-Arscott ’01.

• Global Educational Opportunities – As the only Round Square school in Bermuda, BHS offers students countless opportunities to attend overseas conferences, service trips and academic exchanges. To date, students have travelled to destinations including Kenya, Japan, Colombia, South Africa and more.

• Optional Work Experience - BHS students have the added benefit of engaging in various work experience opportunities. Students with an interest in a particular industry are partnered with a professional in that field to gain insight into potential career paths. This programme is not mandatory

What are A Levels?

A Levels are a UK-based qualification, studied after GCSEs. It is a highly respected qualification which is recognised for higher education entry in the UK, North America and around the world. Students choose 3 or 4 subjects to study in depth over one or two years, with final exams marked on an A*- G grading scale, taken at the end of Year 12 and Year 13. Most universities and higher education institutes will require a minimum of 3 subjects, sometimes based on certain grades in specific subjects. 

What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma?

The International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) was conceived under the auspices of the United National Educational, Scientific, Cultural Organisation by a group of educationalists including Kurt Hahn, founder of Gordonstoun. It is governed by the International Baccalaureate Office in Geneva. More than 166,000 students are examined in 156 countries. 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 recipients access to the world's leading universities and ensures solid preparation for academic success.

A Levels or the IB Diploma? 

Choosing which course to study is a big decision. As BHS students select their I/GCSE subjects in Year 9 (students are aged 13), the discussion regarding the IBDP and the A Level programmes will begin. During Term 1 and the first part of Term 2 in Year 11 (students are 15 years of age), internal and external students will meet with the Head of SYP and the University Admissions Counsellor to discuss and decide upon the most suitable programme and subjects within that programme, for optimal success when applying to University.

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT IB AND A LEVELS

University Acceptance

100% of our graduates go on to tertiary education around the world to study a wide array of disciplines. Many gain acceptance into top colleges and universities in the US, Canada and the UK, some even bypass the first year at Canadian universities, as their IB courses count for first-year credits. 

Full List of University & College Acceptances

The Renaissance Centre

The BHS SYP Programme is housed in the Renaissance Centre, which is a purpose-built facility for Year 12 & 13 students. Each year group has their own common room and the majority of classes take place in the Centre. This separate educational experience provides an environment that is appropriate for post-secondary students, fostering an introduction to the college/university setting.