International Degrees

Wisdom is a virtue that allows us to understand the deep sense of meaning. We aim at our students not only to be truly informed but to be capable of applying their knowledge to help other people. Both International Degrees that Saint Mary´s students obtain are efficient means for them to reach Academic excellence.

IGCSE – International General Certificate of Secondary Education

To improve the quality of education and its suitability for each and every student this curriculum has been specifically tailored to international needs, with an assessment system appropriate for students of all abilities. It is designed as nternationally recognized as equivalent in standard to de British GCSE and International GCS “O” levels examination.

It is administered by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

The important principle of these examinations is that students are rewarded for positive achievement – what they know, understand, can do – rather than being penalized for an accumulation of errors.

As well as testing whether students can recall information and present it in an orderly manner, that curriculum encourages:

  • The development of oral and practical skills.
  • An investigative approach.
  • The use of initiative to solve problems.
  • The applications of skills, knowledge and understanding.
  • The ability to undertake individual projects and to work as part of a team.

The subjects that Saint Mary of the Hills has chosen from this varied curriculum are: First Language English, First Language Spanish, History, Literature, Biology, Mathematics, Art and Design.

http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/

I.B. International Baccalaureate

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programm, is a rigorous pre-university course of studies, leading to examinations that meet the needs of highly motivated secondary school students. Designed as a comprehensive two-year curriculum it places strong emphasis on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizenship. IB Students become informed participants in local and world affairs.

The fundamental part of the Diploma curriculum involves: C.A.S. (Creativity, Action and Service), E.E. (Extended Essay) and T.O.K. (Theory of Knowledge).

The CAS requirement is a refreshing counterbalance to the academic self-absorption some students may feel within a demanding school programme.
Diploma candidates are required to undertake original research and write an essay of about 4,000 words which acquaints students with the kind of independence and writing skills expected at university.

T.O.K. studies the way we learn and acquire knowledge in different areas. Students are supposed to write a 1,200-1,600 word essay where they must show their own critical thinking.

IB Diploma holders gain admission to universities throughout the world and it is highly recognized in the working environment.

International Baccalaureate® MISSION

The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.

These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

http://www.ibo.org/es/