DP1 Core Days
On Thursday 12th and Friday 13th June, the DP1 students participated in two off-timetable days known as Core Days. These are dedicated to working on the core components of the IB Diploma Programme (The Extended Essay and CAS —as well as receiving university guidance and counselling.)
Over the course of the two days, students explored a range of key areas. These included the Global Engagement learning outcome and the ethical implications of their CAS experiences. In addition, they examined the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in academic writing and learned how to formulate effective research questions and structure their Extended Essays. Students also received valuable insights into global university systems, exploring application requirements and the importance of admissions essays and personal statements.
The two days were incredibly successful, with many students already beginning to draft their university applications. The experience concluded with fun and engaging team-building activities, including dodgeball and a creative water-pouring challenge focused on developing communication and collaboration skills.
A huge thank you goes to Ms Coley, Mr Jude, Ms Anshu, Ms Kareji, and Mr Nathan for their outstanding support in leading sessions throughout the Core Days.
Here are some photographs of the Core Days below:
Reflecting on Your Child's Academic Progress
As the academic year comes to a close, many students feel increased pressure to perform well, often aiming to meet or exceed expectations. The End-of-Year report serves as a snapshot of their progress at this point in time. However, it’s important to remember that a report does not define a student. The feedback provided in the comments section is equally, if not more, important than the grades themselves.
Each comment has been carefully written and thoroughly reviewed to offer personalised, constructive feedback. These reflections are designed to help learners identify areas where they may need further practice or support, and to celebrate the progress they have made.
While it can be disappointing not to reach a particular grade or just miss a boundary, we encourage students to focus on their achievements throughout the year and to use the report to set realistic, incremental goals for the year ahead.
We kindly ask parents and guardians to take the time to discuss the report with their child and reflect together on how best to support them on their journey toward reaching their full potential.
Summer Assignments
As part of the IB Diploma Programme, students are encouraged to extend their learning beyond the classroom. To support this, several teachers have set summer assignments, which may include revision tasks, coursework preparation, or work on Internal Assessments (IAs).
While we fully recognise the importance of rest and relaxation during the break, it is equally important that students dedicate some time to consolidating their understanding (especially in areas they found challenging) and continue progressing toward their academic goals.
All summer assignments will be communicated clearly before the end of term via Google Classroom or ManageBac. These tasks are designed to help students return to school in DP2 prepared, confident, and ready to address any remaining areas of difficulty.
We appreciate your support in encouraging your child to strike a healthy balance between rest and productive study over the summer break.
Best wishes,
Mr Daniel Grimshawe
IBDP Coordinator & College Counsellor