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Here are the subject groups…

1 English
2 Modern Languages
3 Social Sciences
4 Experimental Sciences
5 Mathematics
6 Arts and Electives
Core Subjects

The International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD) is a two year course during which a total of six subjects are studied: three at Standard Level and three at Higher Level. You are not expected to be an expert in everything – just to have a wide range of interests. Subjects are divided into six groups as illustrated above: English, Modern Languages, Social Sciences, Experimental Sciences, Mathematics and The Arts and Electives.

You select one subject from each group. It does not matter if you have not already taken a foreign language GCSE – you can learn one ab initio – from scratch! The electives in group 6 enable you to select a package suited to your strengths and future study ambitions. For example a linguist can choose a second language from Group 6, a medic or natural scientist could choose a second science from Group 6.

In addition, everyone will follow the Core Subjects: Creativity Action Service, Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay. The Diploma you receive recognises your all round abilities, demonstrating the range and breadth of your knowledge. It is highly regarded and recognised by Universities in the UK and worldwide.

Subjects offered

This chart below details the subjects offered by St Mary Magdalene Academy as part of the IBD. If you download the Prospectus, you’ll find this chart with a column where you can tick the subjects you think you would like to study. Once you have done that, think about which three subjects you would like to study at Higher Level and which three at Standard Level. You are advised to take Higher Level in any subjects you might be considering for future degree studies.

In general, Higher Level demands a more in-depth study of topics which you are expected to demonstrate in assessments. Internal assessments (coursework) in general have a higher word count and external assessments (exams) will be longer.