In Grades 9 and 10, students will embark on an academic learning programme that is one of five interlinking elements of the UWCSEA learning programme: academics, activities, outdoor education, personal and social education and service. The UWCSEA 9-10 academic programme consists of UWCSEA designed and assessed courses, which together create a balanced international curriculum suitable for students of all nationalities and a wide range of abilities. It has been specifically designed with IB Diploma expectations in mind, with the the IBDP recognised by universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic ability. UWCSEA students are expected to participate fully in all aspects of the learning programme which gives them multiple opportunities to develop the qualities and skills of the UWCSEA profile. 

In this guide you will find detailed information about the UWCSEA 9-10 programme. All courses are two blocks (lessons) a week unless otherwise specified, and all students will take between 8 and 10 courses depending on selections.

1. CORE: Physical and Wellness Education: all students take this course, focusing on physical fitness, sports skills and wellness

2. CORE: Critical Perspectives: all students take this course, focusing on critical thinking, research and project development skills, and written and oral presentations, in the context of pertinent global issues 

3. English: all students for whom English is a first or fluent language study English Literature and Language, with the additional option of Enrichment English for those who wish to take their studies deeper and wider. 

4. English as an Additional Language (EAL): for students for whom English is not a first or fluent language. This includes 4 lessons a week of language support across academic subjects and in preparation for English Literature and Language. Students are placed in EAL following an English proficiency test. 

5. First Language Chinese, French, Hindi, Japanese or Spanish: students can also study Literature and Language in a language other than English, dependent on sufficient numbers.  School Supported Literature and Language - supported by both a UWCSEA teacher and an external home language tutor - is also available, including for additional languages. 

6. Language Acquisition Beginners: Chinese, French and Spanish (dependent on sufficient numbers)

7. Language Acquisition Continuation: Chinese (also offers an Advanced course) , French and Spanish (dependent on sufficient numbers)

8. Humanities: choices include Economics for Social Change, Geography, History, Social Entrepreneurship and Psychology

9. Sciences: a choice of 2 or 4 blocks (lessons) of Integrated Science in Grade 9, with single science study of Biology, Chemistry and Physics available in Grade 10

10. Computer Science: a further course option

11. Mathematics: all students study Essential Mathematics, with the additional option of Enrichment Mathematics for those who wish to take their studies deeper and wider

12. Arts and Design: choices include Fine Art, Graphic Design, Dance, Drama, Film, and Music, as well as Product Design, Innovation Engineering, and Food Science and Nutrition

13. The UWC Project: a further one year course option in Grade 10 that provides students with the opportunity to plan, develop and execute an individual, student-driven research project rooted in UWCSEA Mission Competency

14. World of Learning: all students participate in this experiential programme culminating in a one-week internship in Grade 10

15. Academic Coaching: offers students extended support for their learning, following consultation with Learning Support

Where there is insufficient demand for a subject, we will not be able to offer it, and we will contact you to make a new selection.

Compulsory subjects: Critical Perspectives, Essential Mathematics and Physical and Wellness Education

Compulsory Groups: At least one subject in the following groups: English, Languages, Humanities, Science, Arts and Design

You will also need to select further courses, up to a total maximum of 10 courses.

There is open access to most Grade 9 and 10 subjects, and students are free to select what they will study within the broad guidelines. Students can make new selections at the end of Grade 9 for their Grade 10 year of study.

Choices should be influenced by the following points:

• What are my strengths and areas of greatest interest?

• Are you sufficiently interested in a particular course?

• How have you progressed in each of the subjects you are thinking of choosing?

• Which subject might you consider studying in future?

Avoid making a decision because you like a teacher, or because friends are choosing the same subject.