Our curricula
At NAISR, we offer three curriculum pathways to graduation: the IB Diploma (IBDP), the NAISR Academic Diploma, and the NAISR General Diploma. Your child can follow one programme or a combination of the NAISR Academic Diploma and IBDP.
The IB Diploma
Our IBDP students study six subject groups: Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and Creative Arts. Three of these subject groups are taken at higher level and three at standard level.
Your child will also need to complete the core IB programme – Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity and Service – to achieve their full Diploma.
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): a course that explores critical thinking, giving students an understanding of how we learn.
- The Extended Essay: a 4,000-word independent research project focusing on a specific subject.
- Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS): a range of activities that develop our students’ creative skills and wellbeing, and support our local community.
Students need to get at least 24 points to pass the IBDP, including a minimum of 12 in higher level subjects and nine in standard level subjects. Completing the core programme scores three points.
The NAISR Academic Diploma
The NAISR Academic Diploma is a challenging programme for students who want to go on to higher education.
Your child can choose from a range of specialist subjects, including English, modern languages, social studies, history, sciences, maths, and art. To achieve their Diploma, they’ll need to get a minimum of 24 credits (one year of coursework in one subject area is one credit, for example).
The NAISR Academic Diploma is a minimum requirement to get into universities in the United States and Canada. It’s also accepted by higher education institutions in The Netherlands and across Europe.
The NAISR General Diploma
The NAISR General Diploma is a flexible option for students who want to follow a tailored programme with vocational elements.
Your child will choose from a variety of courses, including traditional and non-traditional subjects, which align with their personal and academic goals, and their ambitions for the future. The Diploma meets the requirements of many further and higher education providers.
Choosing your pathway
We know that choosing the right option at 16 is a big decision. It’s important to consider your child’s strengths and interests, as well as their university and career aspirations. It’s also worth researching the qualifications needed to get on to a particular course. Our teachers and pastoral team are on hand to guide you through the process.
