IB or A Level? | Charterhouse School

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IBDP or A Level?

Both our International Baccalaureate (IBDP) and A Level programmes are rigorous and globally respected qualifications. Both open doors to leading universities in the UK and around the world. 

But they are not the same. Each offers a different structure, a different rhythm of learning, and a different path towards success. Understanding those differences and the opportunities that each can provide, is key to making the right decision.

 

When considering which course might be right for you, we encourage you to reflect on your own learning style?

Our approach to both A Levels and IBDP requires consistent levels of motivation and organisation. A commitment to being organised and diligent in your study is vital for success across both courses.


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Your Sixth Form Curriculum

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 IBDP or A Level?
The Distinctions:

1. Academic Challenge
  • IBDP: Courses have between 4-6 lessons per subject, per week. The intellectual demand of Higher Level courses is similar to that of A Level, but syllabus content is lighter, in recognition that 6 subjects are being studied, and with a greater emphasis on skills and interdisciplinary thinking.
  • A Level: Courses have 8 lessons per subject per week, and pupils are expected to undertake a substantially higher volume of independent additional work than IBDP pupils.
2. Curriculum Structure
  • IBDP: Requires pupils to study six subjects across different disciplines, ensuring a broad and balanced education. This is an excellent option instead of studying 4 A Levels.
  • A Level: Allows pupils to specialise by choosing three subjects, providing depth in specific areas of interest.
3. Assessment
  • IBDP: Each subject involves some coursework during the 2-year programme, allowing pupils to contribute to their final grade before sitting final exams. External examinations are sat at the end of the two-year course.
  • A Level: Primarily assessed through external examinations at the end of the two-year course, with some subjects also including practical assessments.
4. Additional Core Components
  • IBDP: Includes three core components: the Extended Essay (independent research project), Theory of Knowledge (critical thinking course), and Creativity, Activity, Service (extracurricular involvement).
  • A Level: Pupils will select a range of additional qualifications like the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), Level 3 Professional qualification in Applied Entrepreneurship, alongside a range of unassessed academic electives.
5. Global Recognition
  • IBDP: Recognised globally for its rigorous and holistic approach to education, universally valued for developing well-rounded pupils.
  • A Level: Globally respected qualifications, recognised by universities and employers for their academic rigour and depth of study.
6. Teaching and Learning Style
  • IBDP: Encourages interdisciplinary learning and the development of critical thinking, research, and writing skills through a mix of classroom instruction and independent projects.
  • A Level: Focuses on in-depth subject knowledge and analytical skills, with a strong emphasis on exam preparation and performance.
7. University Preparation

 

  • IBDP: Emphasises a broad education that develops a range of skills suitable for a variety of university courses and international applications.
  • A Level: Prepares pupils for specific university courses, especially in the UK, with a strong focus on the subjects they intend to pursue at a higher level.
8. Flexibility

 

  • IBDP: Offers huge flexibility for future degree and career choices, due to the breadth of subjects studied across multiple disciplines.

  • A Level: Significant flexibility to focus on fewer subjects, allowing pupils to tailor their studies to their specific strengths and interests.

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We believe that all of our pupils can benefit from studying the IBDP at Charterhouse. It's broad, balanced and skills-focused education is excellent preparation for university courses around the world, and for professional life beyond.

Choosing to study 3 A Levels can provide the depth, specialism and analytical skills needed, if you have absolute clarity on what you plan to do at university or beyond. (4 A Levels are only possible if choosing Further Maths)


SIMON ALLEN, ASSISTANT HEAD, ACADEMIC

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