Year 10 Taster Days 2025 - International Baccalaureate

Year 10 Taster Days 2025

international baccalaureate diploma

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD): An internationally-recognised alternative to A Levels

Varndean College is the only state-funded provider in Brighton & Hove designated by the Government to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The IBD is taught worldwide and is recognised and understood by universities and employers as excellent preparation for further study or employment.

To study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme as a full-time student, you will choose six subjects from the options shown below, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. Everyone also follows the ‘Core Programme’ which is made up of:

Extended Essay (EE) - 4,000 words on a topic of particular interest in any subject
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) - study of the foundations of knowledge in a particular area
Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS) - you will take part in a variety of extra-curricular activities, comprising some creative work, action and service in the community

In 2024, 79% of IB students applied to UCAS with 71% of successful applicants securing a place at a Russell Group University including four Oxbridge.

University courses have included:

Aerospace Engineering, Architecure, Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, Civil & Structural Engineering, Comparative Literature & Cultures, Dentistry, Economics, Politics & International Studies, Engineering, English, History, Human, Social & Political Sciences, Interdisciplinary Futures, International Relations, Law, Maths & Physics, Medicine, Natural Sciences, Osteopathy, Philosophy, Politics & Economics, Psychological & Behavioural Sciences,

The course runs for two years, with the majority of exams at the end of the course plus an element of coursework in each subject. To find out more, go to our website at https://varndean.ac.uk/courses/i_bacc/

Read below some comments from a selection of former International Baccalaureate students.

Maddie Burgess (ex-Hurstpierpoint College)

Biomedical Sciences, University of Oxford

“I chose the IB because I wanted to acquire a qualification which is recognised globally because one day I would like to work abroad. What I have really enjoyed is the wide variety of subjects we study and everything has a global outlook. Taking part in Varndean’s Aspire Programme helped me considerably with my applications to Oxford, Cambridge and other Russell Group universities and I am now going to study at St Hugh’s College at Oxford! The close-knit social aspect of the IB made starting at college really easy and has created a great support network throughout my time. After university, I would like to follow a career in drug development and pharmacology.”

Luca Miles (ex-Worthing High)

Osteopathy, Swansea University

“I chose the IB because the structure allowed me to continue studying a broad range of subjects and continue as a well-rounded student. My preferred subjects were Maths and Chemistry, but similarly I wanted to continue studying German but didn’t want to do it as a full A Level. I have really enjoyed doing the coursework, which allowed me to delve deeper into topics that specifically interes me. With my Extended Essay for example, I wanted to investigate the causes of addiction from a psychological perspective. This was a massively enjoyable learning experience, in particular the early researching stages. Looking back at my time at Varndean, I really enjoyed the sense of community the College provides. Within the IB, I made new and strong friendships, to the extent where it felt like a second family. I am now looking forward to studying Osteopathy at Swansea University in order to become a qualified osteopath."

Anthea Gabot (ex-Cardinal Newman)

Medicine, University College London

“I was really interested in the IB because I did not want to limit my education to three/four subjects as I was not sure what I wanted to do as a career.

I really enjoyed the teaching style of all my subjects; the teachers know how to engage with the class, using activities and discussions. I also liked furthering my general knowledge and learning about many more new things.”

Sammy Doublet (ex-Varndean School)

Architecture, University College London

“After visiting Varndean on the open day, I felt that the IB was a perfect way to meet new people whilst challenging myself academically.

I enjoyed the way the subjects all tied together. What I learnt about cultures, sciences and politics, I found myself applying in my Artwork or my self-guided explorations in Maths. This made me realise that education is about learning about the world, not just learning a set syllabus.”

Zachary Kent (ex-Peacehaven Community School)

Biochemistry, Imperial College London

“The IB appealed to me because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study at university, therefore having the option to study six subjects broadened my options.

With the IB you have many classes with the same people so its easier to get to know people and you end up feeling like one big family by the end of it. The teachers also didn’t just lecture you with endless facts that you needed to memorise, they used interesting and engaging ways to make the lessons enjoyable and fun.”

Circe Marden-Rull (ex-Hove Park School)

Comparative Literature & Cultures, University of Bristol

“I came to Varndean as it offered the IB - a programme which allowed me to pursue six subjects instead of three. Also, it had a more global perspective which interested me as I am half Spanish and have always had an international outlook. I could immediately tell that Varndean had a very supportive and welcoming environment. I have enjoyed both the social & academic side for the IB. Although the IB is challenging at times, it is an extremely intellectually stimulating and exciting programme.”

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