Sixth Form.
Prepared for an ever-changing world.
IB Diploma Pathway
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at Thames British School
A Holistic Approach to Learning and Personal Development
At Thames British School, we offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), a world-renowned curriculum designed to provide a holistic approach to education. In addition to gaining in-depth knowledge across six subjects, students develop a wide range of transferable skills, preparing them for success at university and beyond.
The specific IBDP subjects offered at Thames British School may vary in order to respond to the needs and aspirations of our students.
At the heart of the IBDP is a commitment to a holistic education, guided by the official IB organisation. This framework encourages students to become inquirers, knowledgeable and informed learners, thinkers, effective communicators, principled individuals, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective.
Through this approach, students grow not only academically but also personally and socially, developing into internationally minded individuals prepared to thrive in a global world.
Through the IBDP at Thames, students benefit from a rigorous, enriching, and holistic education that equips them with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to succeed both academically and personally.
IBDP subjects:
Over two years, students study six subjects across a broad and balanced curriculum, combining 3 hours per week at Standard Level with 4 hours per week at Higher Level. Subjects are drawn from the following groups, with flexibility to reflect each student’s interests and future goals:
Group 1:
Studies in Language and Literature
English Language and Literature, Spanish Language and Literature.
Group 2:
Language Acquisition
French B, Spanish B, Spanish Ab-initio.
Group 3:
Individuals and Societies
Business Management, Psychology, History, Geography.
Group4:
Sciences
Computer Science, Chemistry, Biology, Physics.
Group 5:
Mathematics
Maths AA, Maths AI.
Group 6:
The Arts
Visual arts, Film, Theatre.
Additional subjects can be offered through Pamoja, the only IB-approved online provider for DP courses, including Economics, Philosophy, Digital Society, and Beginner Mandarin.
We believe our IBDP subject offerings vary to best meet the needs and aspirations of our students, catering to a wide range of career paths.
IBDP - the Core:
Additionally, at the heart of the IBDP is the IB Learner Profile, which encourages students to become inquirers, thinkers, communicators, and principled, open-minded young people. Through this framework, students develop curiosity, resilience, and empathy, becoming internationally minded individuals ready to thrive in a globalised world.
A distinctive feature of the IBDP is its Core, which complements academic study and is highly valued by universities worldwide:
- Extended Essay (EE): An independent research project that develops advanced academic skills.
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A critical exploration of how we construct and evaluate knowledge.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Experiences that inspire students to grow beyond the classroom through creativity, physical activity, and community service.
IBDP - The grading system:
In the IBDP, grades are awarded based on a combination of Internal Assessments (IAs) and final examinations. Internal Assessments are completed during the course and allow students to develop essential skills such as independent research, critical thinking, and proper citation practices. This approach ensures that not all of a student’s grade is determined at the end of Year 13, reducing exam pressure and rewarding consistent effort and skill development throughout the programme.
IBDP - An international recognition:
Last but not least, through the IBDP at Thames, students experience an education that is rigorous, enriching, and forward-looking. They graduate not only with internationally recognised qualifications, but also with the confidence, independence, and global outlook needed to succeed at university and beyond. It is worth noting that the IBDP is fully recognised in the Comunidad de Madrid; therefore, students interested in joining a Spanish university in the region do not need to sit the Pruebas de Competencias Específicas (PCE). IBDP results are fully homologated.
Outstanding achievement, global opportunities
Results & Destinations
At Thames British School, we are proud that every student holding an offer for their first or second-choice university achieved the results required to secure their place.
Our pupils go on to study both in Spain and at prestigious universities abroad, reflecting the international outlook and high academic standards of our school.
Whether pursuing degrees locally or internationally, our graduates leave Thames equipped not only with excellent academic results but also with the skills, independence, and confidence needed to thrive in the next stage of their educational journey and beyond.
Join our family at any time of the year.
At Thames British School, we are proud to be an inclusive international school welcoming students from 1 to 18 years old. We accept applications throughout the year and support each family at every stage of the admissions process.
