Mini Prospectus 2027 - Flipbook - Page 14
International
Baccalaureate
DIPLOMA
Group 6
Chemistry,
Economics, Philosophy
or Visual Arts
Group 5
Mathematics
The International Baccalaureate Diploma
is an exciting and popular alternative to
studying A Levels. It provides a unique
opportunity for students to retain a broad
curriculum offer post-16, widen their global
understanding, and obtain world beating
results ensuring they are able to study at
some of the best universities in the UK.
Varndean Sixth Form College has been
offering the IB since 2007 and we believe
the Diploma programme offers a broad
and rewarding programme of study,
which empowers learners to be active
global citizens able to pursue a range of
destinations post-18. The IB Diploma is
taught worldwide and is internationally
recognised and understood by universities
and employers as excellent preparation
for further study or employment. We are
currently the only state funded provider of
the IB Diploma in Sussex.
Group 1
English & World
Literature
Theory of
knowledge
extended essay
creativity,
activity,
service
Group 4
Biology, Environmental
Systems & Societies
or Physics
Group 2
French,
German or
Spanish
Group 3
History, Global
Politics or
Psychology
It differs from A Levels in its breadth, as well
as its integration as a complete programme
of study. Students study six courses and
choose one subject from each of the six
subject areas, three at Higher Level and
three at Standard Level. However, it’s
important to point out that if you choose the
IB Diploma, you are not studying towards
six full A Levels, but you will have a fuller
timetable than your peers studying A Levels!
Students have lots of options to customise
their Diploma to suit their needs, interests
and career aspirations.
All students also follow the Core Programme,
which is made up of:
The Extended Essay (4,000 words on a topic of
particular interest)
Theory of Knowledge (a study of the foundations
of knowledge)
Creativity, Activity, Service (a programme of
extra-curricular activities).
To find out more, go to our website or come
along to our IB Presentation Evening on
Tuesday 13 October 2026 from 6.30pm - 7.45pm.
