CURSUS
Secondary
Life in the Secondary Section
Our upper school offers a stimulating and challenging international programme, built around the respected Cambridge Assessment International Education. Students are supported and encouraged to become confident, responsible, reflective, innovative and engaged lifelong learners in a culturally diverse, supportive and bilingual environment.
Our courses provide clear progression from the Cambridge Lower Secondary programme followed by our Middle School through to International General Certificates of Secondary Education (IGCSE) at 16 years and International Advanced Level Examinations (A-Level) at 18 years.
Our student-centered teaching approach provides challenge, guidance and support, tailored to the needs and passions of each individual. Classes consist of up to 15 students maximum per teacher at IGCSE and small tutorial groups of between 2-10 students at A-Level.
Alongside our academic programme, emphasis is placed on the development of a second and/or third language. Students have access to a rich Personal Social and Global Skills (PSGS) programme, careers and higher education guidance tailored to individual student needs, and the exciting and reputable Duke of Edinburgh International Award.
International GCSEs
Cambridge International GCSE is a two year course where students typically take between 7-9 subjects, which culminates in official external examinations. Students are awarded a grade from Cambridge Assessment International Education (A* – G) in each subject.
Whilst the language of instruction is mainly English, we encourage our students to continue with their language development. French is obligatory for all students at all levels, Sport lessons are conducted entirely in French and students are also encouraged to pass exams in their home language.
International Advanced-Level
International A-Levels enable students to take examinations at a higher level in a small number of subjects to equip them with the knowledge, skills and qualifications to succeed at university and beyond.
Students take three or four A-Level subjects at exam level, as well as core non-exam subjects of PSGS (Personal, Social & Global Skills) and Sport, both taught in French. Studying French language is obligatory for all students.
Courses involve teacher contact lessons as well as teacher-guided study in the form of background reading, research, practice questions, written assignments and homework.
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award
Young people need experiences outside the classroom to become committed, responsible and fulfilled citizens of the world. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is available to all students aged 14 and above. It equips young people for life regardless of their background, culture, physical ability, skills and interests. The Award is a personal challenge and not a competition against others; it pushes young people to their limits, recognises their achievements, provides opportunities to develop skills, become physically active, give service and experience adventure.
University Counseling, Higher Education & Careers
To prepare our students as global citizens in a competitive world, we run a dedicated higher education counseling and careers programme. International A-Levels provide access to world-class institutions with France, the UK, USA, and Canada being popular choices. We prepare, train and advise students extensively whilst supporting them through their application process. In terms of career orientation, we run a range of events, involving inspirational speakers, training and workshops throughout the school year.
School trips and outings
School excursions allow students to discover new places, find out more about other cultures and are an important part of their educational journey, enhancing work done in the classroom. Our location in the heart of Bordeaux offers a multitude of opportunities for learning, from museums and theatres to monuments and more. Great transport links allow for annual trips to the surrounding areas, such as the Dordogne, or further afield to Spain or the UK. A two-week trip to Canada every two years allows students to practice their bilingualism and get a feel for Canadian culture.
