The IB Diploma

What is the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous two-year educational pathway designed for students aged 16 to 19. It offers a unique blend of academic breadth, subject-specific depth, and a strong emphasis on personal growth.

At its core, the IB Diploma shapes well-rounded, globally-minded individuals who think critically, act ethically, and approach challenges with confidence. More than just a curriculum, it’s a transformative education that prepares students for success in university, their careers, and life.

A study by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) found that 22.9% of IB Diploma students go on to achieve a first-class honours degree at university, an 18% improvement on A-level student outcomes. This underscores the IB’s power to develop the skills, discipline, and ambition needed to excel at the highest academic levels.

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Why students choose the IB at Westbourne School?

Our exceptional Sixth Form Results for 2026:

1 in 3 of our IB Diploma students scored 40+ Points
(surpassing A*A*A* at A-Levels)

With a highest score of 44 Points, nearly 50% of students also achieved 38+ points (the University of Oxford entry benchmark).

Explore Boarding as an IB Student

IB not right for you? We also offer A Levels for those who want to specialise in three or four subjects, whilst still benefitting from the richness of the IB inner core through the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification), leadership roles, competitions, and work experience. Read our helpful Comparison Guide to A Levels vs. the IB.

A Global Curriculum for Future Leaders

Focused on preparing future leaders in STEM and business, the IB Diploma Programme at Westbourne combines academic excellence with real-world opportunities. With unique experiences like mini-MBA study programmes in Singapore, exchanges with Westbourne College Sydney and global career support students gain a truly international perspective, essential for thriving in today’s interconnected world.

Proven Excellence

Consistently ranked among the top IB schools in the UK, Westbourne delivers exceptional academic results. Our graduates secure places at leading universities and excel in fields like STEM, business and law, reflecting the IB’s rigorous, future-focused approach.

The IB’s interdisciplinary approach and focus on critical thinking ensure our students don’t just achieve academically—they graduate ready to lead and innovate on the global stage.

Personalised Support for Success

At Westbourne, every student matters. With small class sizes, expert teaching, and tailored university guidance, we provide a personalised experience that helps students achieve their ambitions.

From mentoring on STEM and business pathways to support with prestigious university applications, we’re committed to helping students realise their potential and build the confidence to excel in their future careers.

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How does the IB Diploma work?

The IB Diploma is built on three key components and six subject groups, ensuring a balanced yet flexible curriculum:

Six IB Diploma Subject Groups

Students study one subject from each group, choosing three at Higher Level (HL) for deeper exploration and three at Standard Level (SL) for a broader foundation:

1. 1. Language and Literature: Students at Westbourne study English A.
   2. Language Acquisition: Learning a second language, and fostering global communication skills, students at Westbourne typically choose from Spanish or Chinese, with other languages available subject to demand.
   3. Individuals and Societies: Subjects like History, Economics, and Business Studies to understand human and societal interactions.
   4. Sciences: Options include Computer Science, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, or Environmental Systems.
   5. Mathematics: Focus on analytical or applied maths depending on the student’s strengths.
   6. The Arts: Most typically an additional subject from group 3 or 4.

The IB Core

1. Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Develops critical thinking by challenging students to question the nature of knowledge.
2. Extended Essay (EE): A self-directed research project culminating in a 4,000-word paper, invaluable preparation for university-level writing and research.
3. Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Encourages personal growth through creative projects, physical activity, and community service.

If you’d prefer to choose A Levels at Westbourne, you’ll still benefit from a first-class enrichment programme through the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification), leadership roles, competitions, work experience, and more.

Grading System

Each subject is graded on a scale of 1 to 7, with up to 3 additional points available for the core components (TOK and EE).

The highest possible score is 45, and a minimum of 24 points is required to achieve the diploma. Universities worldwide value IB Diploma students for their academic rigour, critical thinking, and global perspective, the granular level of grading also enables highly able students to truly demonstrate their ability, with just 0.1% of students worldwide achieving 45 Points.