1. The Diploma

Leading to examinations, the IB diploma program is a rigorous pre-university course of studies that meets the needs of highly-motivated secondary school students and fulfills the requirements of various national education systems. The diploma model is not based on the pattern of any single country, but incorporates the best elements of many. The program is available in English, French or Spanish.
 
The candidates for the diploma are required to take six courses, one from each area or group. The groups are listed below, and the subjects offered at KES in each group are indicated. A student needs to take three courses at the higher level, and three at the standard level.

Please note that students enrolled in the IB diploma program have the cost of their diploma covered by the School.
  • GROUP I - English, German
  • GROUP II - French, Spanish 
  • GROUP III - History, Business and Management, Environmental Systems and Societies
  • GROUP IV - Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science
  • GROUP V - Math AA (Analysis and Approaches), Math AI (Applications and Interpretations)
  • GROUP VI - Music, Theatre, Visual Arts or any selection from one of the other groups

As well as the above, the diploma offers some special features: 
  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – This is a required interdisciplinary course intended to stimulate critical reflection upon the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom. TOK seeks to develop a coherent approach to learning by encouraging students to question the bases of knowledge, be aware of subjective and ideological biases, and develop personal modes of thought.
  • Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) – CAS is a fundamental part of the diploma and encourages students to take seriously the life outside of the world of scholarship, and to share their energy and talents while working cooperatively.
  • Extended Essay - All diploma candidates are required to undertake original research and write a maximum 4000 word extended essay in a subject of their choice, under the guidance of a teacher, and externally graded.
 
Diploma candidates are required to take three of their subjects at the higher or more advanced level and three at the standard level. Exams are graded on a scale as follows:
  1. very poor
  2. poor
  3. mediocre
  4. satisfactory
  5. good
  6. very good
  7. excellent

In addition, bonus points may be earned from the TOK or the essay. A total of 24 points is necessary for awarding of the diploma, along with satisfactory completion of TOK, CAS and the essay.
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Become a Highlander

King’s-Edgehill School is located in Mi'kma'ki, the unceded ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaq People.