- Home
- Sixth Form
- Curriculum and Courses
- IBDP
IBDP
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a broad, academically challenging and internationally recognised programme for students aged 16–19. Rather than specialising in a small number of subjects, students continue to study across a range of disciplines while developing particular depth in the subjects they choose at Higher Level.
The IBDP has been at the heart of Hockerill Sixth Form for many years and remains an important part of our identity as an IB World School. Its emphasis on intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, independence and international understanding closely reflects the wider ethos of the College and continues to influence the educational experience of our whole Sixth Form.
What will I study?
Students study six subjects over two years, choosing three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).
Subjects are selected across the six IB subject groups:
- Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
- Group 2: Language Acquisition
- Group 3: Individuals and Societies
- Group 4: Sciences
- Group 5: Mathematics
- Group 6: An Arts subject or an additional subject from another group
Higher Level subjects provide greater depth and are normally chosen in areas that particularly reflect a student's academic strengths, interests or future plans. Standard Level subjects allow students to maintain the breadth that is a distinctive feature of the Diploma Programme.
The IB Core
Alongside their six subjects, all students complete the three elements of the IB Core.
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK) encourages students to think critically about knowledge itself: how we know what we know, how evidence is evaluated and how different perspectives can shape our understanding.
- The Extended Essay (EE) is an independent research project culminating in a 4,000-word academic essay. Students investigate a question of particular interest to them, supported by a specialist supervisor, developing research, academic writing and independent study skills that provide excellent preparation for university.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) encourages students to learn and develop beyond their academic subjects through creative activity, physical activity and service to others. At Hockerill, this forms an important part of the wider Sixth Form experience and provides opportunities for students to contribute to College and community life.
Why choose the IB Diploma?
The IBDP may particularly appeal to students who enjoy academic breadth and want to continue studying across different areas rather than specialising immediately.
It provides the opportunity to combine languages, humanities, sciences, mathematics and creative subjects within a single coherent programme. Students are encouraged to make connections between their subjects, consider different perspectives and become increasingly independent learners.
The combination of Higher Level study, the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge also develops many of the skills required for successful university study, including research, critical thinking, academic writing, analysis, organisation and independent learning.
Its international outlook is particularly well matched to Hockerill. Students study the Diploma within a diverse day and boarding community where languages, cultures and different perspectives are part of everyday College life.
Assessment and the IB Diploma
IB subjects are assessed through a combination of examinations and internally and externally assessed work, with the precise balance varying between subjects.
Each of the six subjects is awarded a grade from 1 to 7. Students can also achieve up to three additional points through Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay, giving a maximum Diploma score of 45 points.
The IB Diploma is internationally recognised and provides a well-established route to universities in the UK and around the world.
Is the IB Diploma right for me?
The IB Diploma may be particularly suitable if you:
- enjoy several different subjects and want to maintain academic breadth;
- are academically curious and enjoy making connections between different areas of learning;
- want to continue studying a language alongside other disciplines;
- enjoy both independent learning and classroom discussion;
- are prepared to organise your time effectively across a broad programme;
- value an international perspective and engagement with the wider world; and
- want to develop strong research, critical-thinking and academic skills in preparation for university and future study.
Choosing between the IB Diploma and our A Level and Applied pathways is an individual decision. Neither route is intended to be the right choice for every student. Your strengths, interests, preferred subjects and future plans should all inform your decision.
Before joining Hockerill Sixth Form, students will have opportunities to discuss their proposed programme and subject choices with experienced staff. We want students not simply to choose an impressive programme, but to choose one in which they are well placed to succeed.
Explore the IB Diploma
IB subjects available at Hockerill
Explore the Higher Level and Standard Level subjects planned for September 2027.