Background to International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a two-year course of study for students aged 16 to 19 leading to final examinations and an internationally recognised qualification. It provides a compromise between early specialisation preferred in some national systems and the greater breadth found in others.

The programme emphasises the importance of high academic standards, the international nature of knowledge, critical thinking, active citizenship and cultural understanding. It encourages students to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

The IB Diploma programme is suitable for students who are highly motivated, well organised, interested in developing their thinking skills and have a dedicated approach to study. It is accessible to average or above average students who possess these attributes while at the same time enables gifted students to demonstartate their talents.In New Zealand IB schools students complete NCEA Level one in Year 11 and then choose either to continue on the NCEA pathway at Level 2 or begin the two year IB diploma programme.

Please click on the links below to see a profile outlining what courses a student who is Humanities or Science/Maths focused might take under either NCEA or IB and for information about what to do and who to talk to when making these decisions.