Secondary International Track

This programme is suitable for English speakers joining the school for Secondary education. The English International Programme is designed for local and international families who seek a holistic approach to education for their children. The programme focuses on intellectual challenges and rigour, as well as mindfulness and a global perspective.

The EIP is a bespoke LIL programme, inspired by the Middle Years Programme. It features conceptual, inquiry-based learning, equipping students with key skills including research, communication and critical thinking.

All subjects are taught in English, except for languages and some PE classes. Activities such as service learning and trips overseas are also integral to the student experience. Our Opening Minds classes offer non- assessed, academic extra-curricular content for students.

In Year 11, EIP students can take up to nine IGCSEs, preparing them for the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) programme in Years 12 and 13. The following IGCSE exams are available for students to sit in Year 11: English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, French (either as an acquisition or native language), History, Geography, Combined Science, Art and Design and a third language.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a rigorous academic curriculum that provides excellent preparation for university entrance worldwide with an internationally recognised qualification. It was founded as a progressive non-profit educational foundation in 1968 and today the IB works with 5,700 schools in over 160 countries and offers programmes to over 1.95 million students worldwide.

The aim of the IB Diploma Programme is to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help create a better world through the understanding and respect of different nationalities and cultures.  Students are encouraged to ask challenging questions, reflect critically, develop research skills, and participate in community service.

Students are required to study six subjects: Science, Mathematics, Individuals and Societies (Humanities), two languages, and either Visual Art or an additional Science, Language, or Humanities subject.  Three of these subjects are taken at standard level and three at higher level.

Subjects currently offered at LIL:

Group 1 Studies in Language and Literature: English Language and Literature

Group 2 Language Acquisition: French Acquisition or French Language and Literature for a Bilingual Diploma. 

Group 3 Individuals and Societies: Economics, Geography, History, or Psychology

Group 4 Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, or Physics

Group 5 Mathematics: Mathematics Applications and Interpretation (standard level only), or Mathematics Analysis and Approaches (standard level and higher level)

Group 6 The Arts: Visual Arts, or another subject from Group 2 (Spanish can be added here), Group 3 (History or Geography), or Group 4 (Chemistry). 

Additionally, the programme includes:

• Extended Essay: a 4,000 word essay which gives students the opportunity to delve into a topic of their choice from one of their six IB subjects. The Extended Essay demonstrates a student’s ability to conduct rigorous research, think critically and independently, and communicate their ideas effectively.
• Theory of Knowledge: this course transcends the boundaries of specific subjects, asking students to reflect on different types of knowledge and the various ways in which we acquire it. Our students are able to draw on the perspectives and experiences of their peers from around the world in active class discussions and activities.
• Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) activities: students document their volunteer activities throughout Year 12 and 13, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world contexts.  These activities encourage them to explore their interests through creative thinking, physical activity, and voluntary service.  Whether they are volunteering in their community, taking up a new sport, or participating in leadership or group activities, the CAS programme gives students the opportunity to share with others, reflect on their growth, and see the tangible impact of their efforts.

These three components enable IB students to gain a deep understanding of relevant topics, while fostering reflection, international-mindedness, and critical thinking skills.

The IB is assessed through both formal examinations in May of Year 13, and through coursework and internal assessments, class presentations, collaborative projects and extensive independent research over the two years of the Diploma Programme.

The grading system uses a scale of 1 to 7.  A mark of 7 is the highest and is equivalent to gaining an A* in British A-Levels.

The Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay together provide up to three additional points, bringing the maximum IB Diploma score to 45 points.

To achieve an IB Diploma, candidates must meet the Diploma Programme (DP) passing criteria as shown on the International Baccalaureate website.

The IB Diploma Programme allows students to study six subjects rather than the three or four subjects taken for British A-Levels with many subjects similar to the British curriculum.

The IB places greater emphasis on critical thinking, inquiry-based learning and developing well-rounded students. The inclusion of the Extended Essay provides excellent preparation for university-level research.

The IB programme is designed to prepare students for university and beyond by developing their critical thinking, research, and communication skills. It is recognised and valued by universities around the world.

Recent graduates have received offers from top-class universities including Oxford, UCL, Warwick, Edinburgh, Exeter, Durham, McGill, UCLA, and Cornell Universities.

The IB Diploma programme is suitable for all students, regardless of whether or not they have previously attended an international school or school abroad.  The programme is suitable for international learners, those who have followed a Middle Years Programme at another school, and students who have followed the British curriculum.

For local students, the IB offers an opportunity to broaden their horizons by exploring a wider range of subjects. It encourages them to embrace perspectives beyond their immediate environment and develop a more global outlook.  For international families, the IB offers a consistent and internationally recognised framework that facilitates transitions between educational systems.