Cambridge Upper Secondary - International General Certificate of Secondary Education or IGCSE (ages 14-16)

During this two-year Cambridge Upper Secondary Programme, learning partners learn how to apply skills and knowledge to solve higher order problems. At the end of Year 10, learning partners sit external examinations covering the educational content prescribed by the "University of Cambridge International Examinations". The IGCSE Programme is renowned world-wide, and by completing the subjects above, is recognized as the official equivalency of the German “Mittlere Reife Schulabschluss”.

The Cambridge approach is all about encouraging learning partners to study a variety of subjects. Focus is given to addressing global issues relating to 21st century problems.

The Cambridge IGCSE helps learning partners improve their performance by encouraging them to develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills. It is the perfect basis for advanced studies. The Cambridge IGCSE programme is about teaching students knowledge, understanding and skills:

Application of knowledge and an understanding of new as well as unknown situations
Intellectual inquisitiveness
Flexibility and responsiveness
Working and communicating in English
Data collection, presentation and interpretation
Cultural awareness

Schools worldwide have taken part in the development of the Cambridge IGCSE. The curricula are used internationally but maintain a national frame of reference. They have specifically been designed for international students and avoid cultural stereotypes.

The external examinations are prepared and marked by Cambridge International Examinations. Students can obtain certificates using the following grade scale: A*, A, B, C, D, E (A* being the highest possible grade and E the lowest pass mark). Cambridge IGCSE examination sessions occur twice a year, in June and November with results being issued in August and January. For those students who have not achieved the grade they have desired, there is the opportunity to re-sit the exam during the next session.

At ISW, all learning partners study the following IGCSE subjects:

English Language
Mathematics
German
Biology
Chemistry
Economics

Self Study Subjects

In certain circumstances a student may apply to replace one of these subjects with a self-study subject. ISW works in collaboration with an external programme provider to make this opportunity available to certain students. To be eligible to complete a self-study subject a student must demonstrate a passion and need for this specific subject, and must demonstrate the ability to work independently in order to complete a third party programme and have approval from the School Principal. If approved to complete a self-study subject, ISW will assign a coach to support the student throughout the programme, but this coach will not be responsible for teaching the content.

Personal Development Programme

All learning partners within our Secondary School take part in ISW’s unique Personal Development Programme, which is supported by the SBW Haus des Lernens approach – and each Wednesday has been designated solely to this task.

The focus of this day is to give LPs a chance to explore new passions and talents, or to develop existing ones. The Personal Development Programme incorporates the following elements: