International Baccalaureate Diploma

Senior school > Curriculum > International Baccalaureate Diploma

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme was introduced to Gresham’s in 2007, and has proved increasingly popular with our pupils, who have achieved outstanding results. Gresham’s has swiftly gained an international reputation as an IB Diploma centre of excellence, with pupils progressing to some of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions.

Pupils opting for the IB will study and take exams in six subjects; at least three will be studied at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL), according to pupil preference. We advise pupils on the best subject combinations to suit their interests and to meet their future goals.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma features a unique ‘core’, which provides learners with a coherent package across their formal subjects with informal and independent study, including: the Extended Essay (EE); the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course; and a community programme incorporating Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS).

The 4,000-word EE can be on a topic of each pupil’s own choosing, which allows them to develop as independent learners in a genuine and meaningful way. The TOK course in critical thinking enables pupils to emerge literate, numerate, and linguistically and scientifically able, whilst the CAS programme encourages pupils to extend their learning outside of the classroom in different community settings.

The IB Diploma offers an innovative, broad and rigorous curriculum providing pupils with intellectual, social, cultural and linguistic skills valued by universities and employers across the board.

We were recently named as a top global International Baccalaureate (IB) school for 2021. The recognition is for excellence in academic achievement as a top 25 IB School in the UK.

The Core

Group 1 – Studies in Language and Literature

Group 2 – Language Acquisition

Group 3 – Individuals and Societies

Group 4 – The Sciences

Group 5 – Mathematics

Group 6 – The Arts

Sixth Form Choices Guide

Find out more about the Sixth Form curriculum at Gresham’s and information about choosing the best option for you. We offer three choices:

A levels

BTEC National Diplomas

IB Diploma Programme