Cambridge International Subjects
The Cambridge International programme covers a wide range of subjects at different stages of our students' educational journey. The subjects we teach ensure students take a balanced course that prepares them well for upcoming academic stages. These years form an essential base for senior study and qualifications.
Cambridge International Assessment
Cambridge International is characterised by its exam-based assessments and clear benchmarking. We believe an end-of-year exam system allows teachers and students to explore questions to a depth and a quality that educators involved in internal assessment benchmarking simply do not have the time for.
Cambridge International Grading System
The Cambridge International Grading System grades all work completed and submitted by students for assessment. This standardised grading system gives students a clear and comprehensive assessment of their knowledge and skills.
IGCSE grades are assigned based on performance in practical tests, exams and coursework.
Grades range from A* to G (A* is the highest mark and G is the lowest).
The A-Level Grading System is slightly different, as grades range from A* to E. A* is the highest grade.
Cambridge International vs NCEA
The Cambridge curriculum has the advantage of offering a more efficient use of classroom time when compared to the NCEA. A significant portion of the course is evaluated through external end-of-year examinations, allowing teachers to dedicate more time to teaching and less to grading. In Cambridge International assessments, students receive a percentage score, which is then converted into a clear overall grade ranging from A* to G (or A* to E in Advanced Levels), providing students with a straightforward performance indicator.
In contrast, the New Zealand NCEA curriculum relies on year-round internal assessments. Student work is categorised into broader 'bands,' such as 'Achieved,' 'Merit,' or 'Excellence.' Due to the frequent assessment schedule, educators delivering the NCEA programme often allocate substantial time to assessment preparation, delivery, moderation, and grading.
The Difference Between Cambridge AS and A-Levels
Thousands of learners worldwide secure places at leading universities every year with Cambridge International AS and A-Levels, a qualification for students between 17 and 18 years of age. The Cambridge International A-Level (Advanced Level) is typically a 2-year course, while the Cambridge International AS-Level course (Advanced Subsidiary Level) is 1 year. An AS-Level contains half the content of the corresponding A-Level. Some subjects can be started as a Cambridge International AS-Level and extended to a Cambridge International A-Level. The syllabuses develop a deep understanding of subjects and independent thinking skills.
Lower College Subjects
Lower College Subjects (Years 7-10) include:
- English
- Foreign language (Spanish)
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social science
- Music
- Art
- Drama
- Physical Education
- Design and echnology
- Computer science
IGCSE Subjects
In Year 11 of IGCSE, students usually take 7 subjects.
Subjects include:
Compulsory (students must choose one)
- English language, English literature, mathematics
Optional
- Art and design
- Computer science
- Coordinated science: physics, chemistry, biology, psychology
- Design and technology
- History
- Physical education
- Spanish
- Music
AS and A-Level Subjects
From Year 12, students usually take 4 subjects a year. Year 12 courses generally consist of AS-Level subjects. However, students may also choose A-Level subjects provided they meet the entry criteria. Year 13 courses may include either AS or A-Level subjects.
Subjects include:
Compulsory
- English language and English literature
Optional
- Art and design
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Classical studies
- Computer science
- Design and technology
- Marine science
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physics
- Physical education
- Spanish
