Secondary
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In order to effectively build on the knowledge and skills developed in primary, the Secondary programme at BISC is aligned with the Cambridge International Curriculum and provides students with a well-rounded and engaging Secondary education. Split into three stages, with each stage designed to meet your child’s academic, social, and personal development needs, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future.
Year 7 & 8 (Ages 11-13)
Key Stage 3 marks the start of your child’s Secondary education journey. Our curriculum is designed to inspire, motivate, and build self-confidence through active participation in both group and individual settings. Across a wide range of learning areas, students are encouraged to make meaningful connections between subjects, fostering a deeper understanding of the content.
Our small class sizes and rigorous assessment systems allow teachers to closely monitor each pupil’s progress. For students who may need additional language support, our tailored English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme ensures they are equipped to meet the curriculum’s learning objectives. One thing that our families often share with us is that they really appreciate that the EAL programme is included in the tuition fees (with no extra charge) for the students who require additional language support.
We believe in making learning dynamic and relevant, which is why we regularly organise off-site trips, allowing students to utilise community resources and enrich their learning experiences beyond the classroom.
At Key Stage 3, your child will be nurtured through a supportive environment, with a strong focus on home-to-school communication, ensuring they develop the skills and confidence needed to progress in their educational journey.
Years 9, 10 and 11 (IGCSE – Ages 14-16)
In Years 9, 10 and 11, students embark on an academic programme leading to the internationally recognised IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). This phase is critical in shaping your child’s future academic and career choices, providing a solid foundation in core subjects and elective courses tailored to their interests and strengths.
At BISC Wroclaw, we are always seeking innovative ways to enhance our students’ learning experience by drawing on best practices from around the world. As part of this commitment, we’ve restructured Years 9 to 11 to spread the IGCSE exams over three years, rather than the typical two years in most schools. This extended timeframe gives students more freedom to explore their personal interests and enjoy their teenage years, while still balancing their academic commitments.
For those with high academic ambitions, this three-year structure provides extra time to master the course content, which inevitably leads to improved exam results. We also recognise and support students’ individual academic strengths. If a student excels in one or more subjects, they may be eligible to take their IGCSE exams early, prior to Year 11, provided they meet certain criteria. By completing some exams early, students can free up time in their schedules to focus on the subjects they find more challenging, ensuring they are well-prepared and supported throughout their IGCSE journey.
Our curriculum is externally examined and maintains rigorous academic standards across all subjects. Students demonstrate their knowledge and understanding through a variety of formats, including written, verbal, and digital exams, as well as some internally assessed and externally moderated coursework – an assessment method common in the Humanities subjects. This approach ensures students develop a comprehensive grasp of the content, critical thinking skills, and independent study habits that are essential for future success.
Dedicated teachers monitor student progress closely, offering personalised guidance to help each individual reach their potential. This support is complemented by a strong emphasis on developing the skills necessary for further studies in Years 12 and 13 and beyond.
Years 12 and 13 (Ages 16-18) – International A-levels or a USA High School Diploma
Year 12 and 13 are the final years of Secondary education, where students undertake academic programmes which prepare them for higher education and university study. This stage offers in-depth exploration of subjects, encouraging independent thought, logical reasoning, and the application of knowledge to new situations.
Our experienced teaching staff are committed to supporting students through tailored instructional techniques, ensuring they are fully prepared for external examinations. Close monitoring of each student’s academic progress allows for personalised interventions, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Students choose the International A-level programme or the USA High School Diploma Programme. Please see the table below in order to understand the key strengths and differences of the two options.
Students choose the International A-level programme or the USA High School Diploma Programme. Please see the table below in order to understand the key strengths and differences of the two options.
Aspect |
International A Levels |
USA High School Diploma |
---|---|---|
Structure |
Two-year, subject-specific qualifications |
General curriculum over three years |
Subject Focus |
Deep focus on 3-4 subjects of the student’s choice |
Broad study across multiple subjects |
Assessment |
Externally assessed exams at the end of the course |
Combination of coursework, exams, and class performance throughout the three years |
Flexibility |
Students choose subjects based on interests and future career goals |
A combination of a set curriculum and more than 200 elective subjects to choose from |
Grading System |
Graded A* to E with final exams being the key component |
Graded A to F; includes GPA based on overall performance across subjects |
Global Recognition |
Recognised internationally, particularly in the UK, Europe, Australia, and Asia |
Recognised by USA and international universities. |
University entrance exams |
No additional entry exams are required |
Accepted by U.S and International. colleges and universities; may require standardised tests (SAT/ACT) for admissions |
Specialisation |
Allows early specialisation in subjects relevant to future studies or career paths |
Generalist approach, often postponing specialisation until college/university |
External Examinations |
Heavily reliant on final exams assessed by an external board |
Varies; includes class assessments, midterms, finals, and sometimes state exams |