Your Sixth Form. Your Future.
The IB DIPLOMA
The Diploma Programme is consistently rated by university admissions officers as the best preparation for university, enabling students to confidently undertake independent study
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-Dr Peter Fidczuk, The University Admissions Officers Report 2016.
The IB DIPLOMA
Introduction As the first all-girls school in the UK to offer the International Baccalaureate, Marymount International School London has been at the forefront of IB education for over 40 years and remains consistently among the best IB schools in the world. Our Sixth Form brings together ambitious young women from across the globe, combining academic excellence, an international outlook and exceptional individual care. Every student is known, her talents championed and her ambitions taken seriously. All Sixth Form students study the IB curriculum, developing intellectual curiosity, independent thinking and the ability to engage with different perspectives. Our experienced teachers, many of whom are IB examiners, bring genuine passion, expert subject knowledge and a deep understanding of what success in the Diploma requires. Through their guidance, students build the skills and confidence to excel at university and beyond. We believe that students should have the opportunity to pursue an education that reflects their interests, strengths and aspirations. Our bespoke approach to timetabling supports a wide range of subject combinations, offering: a broad choice across the Arts, Humanities and Sciences; both Mathematics courses at Higher and Standard Level; multiple mother tongue languages.
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Our students achieve outstanding IB Diploma results, with an average pass rate of 100% and an average score of 36.5 points over the past 3 years. Typically, around a third of every cohort achieves the prestigious Bilingual Diploma, reflecting the linguistic strengths of our international community. Marymount graduates study at worldrenowned universities both in the UK and across the globe. Our tailored Future Pathways Programme enables each student to explore her options, make informed choices and achieve her desired outcomes. Central to the Sixth Form experience is a powerful combination of academic rigour and outstanding pastoral care. As students develop a clearer understanding of themselves, they are supported by teachers who know them as individuals. Students graduate from Marymount equipped to take their next steps with confidence, a sense of purpose and a global outlook.
The IB DIPLOMA
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The IB at Marymount At Marymount, the IB Diploma aligns perfectly with our Catholic mission and international outlook, providing a foundation upon which our students learn to think independently, act with compassion and engage thoughtfully with the world.
Integrity and compassion Our mission, “That all may have life”, underpins a shared commitment to integrity, respect and service. Students consider how their choices can make a positive difference to their school, local, national and global communities.
Intellectual curiosity The IB curriculum encourages students to connect ideas across subjects, question assumptions and develop informed judgements through discussion and independent research.
Resilience and self-awareness Supported by teachers who know them as individuals, students learn to respond to challenges, reflect on feedback and balance their ambitions with their wellbeing.
Confidence and communication In a truly diverse learning community, students learn to listen carefully and appreciate different perspectives, and in so doing find their own voice.
These habits prepare students for university and a life of learning, meaningful contribution and purpose.
The IB is well known to us for excellent preparation... We are always pleased to see the credentials of the IB Diploma Programme on the transcript. -Marilyn McGrath Lewis, Former Director of Admissions at Harvard University
The IB DIPLOMA
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Your IB Pathway
At Marymount International School London, students can follow either the full IB Diploma or a tailored selection of individual IB Courses. Supported by personalised guidance, each student pursues the pathway that aligns with her strengths, passions and future aspirations.
The full Diploma Six subjects: three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. Alongside these subjects, students complete the Core, which comprises Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service. Higher Level subjects allow students to develop particular academic interests. Standard Level study maintains breadth across different disciplines.
Individual IB Courses For some students, a more tailored selection of subjects may be a more appropriate programme of study and can be designed with the IB DP Coordinator and Director of Future Pathways as required.
The IB programme at Marymount differentiates itself from other programmes because of its ability to develop students’ skills across a wide range of areas while providing a strong and supportive relationship between students and teachers. -Nerea, Grade 12 student
The IB DIPLOMA
I chose the IB because of the range of opportunities it offers students looking to apply to both UK and international universities. - Cristina, Grade 12 student
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The IB DIPLOMA
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Breadth with Depth
6 Subjects
2 Years
1 Core
SUBJECT CHOICES AT MARYMOUNT
Group 1 - Language and Literature* G1 Language courses English German Japanese Korean Mandarin Spanish Additional language courses (schoolapproved external tutors) Arabic Czech French Italian Norwegian Polish Slovene Group 2: Language Acquisition* G2 Language courses: English French Spanish German Mandarin Additional language courses (schoolapproved external tutors) Arabic Dutch Italian Japanese Korean
*Courses offered may vary year on year according to demand **ESS is a transdisciplinary subject and can be a Group 3 option, a Group 4 option, or both
Group 3: Individuals and Societies G3 Individuals & Societies courses: Economics Geography History Psychology Global Politics Environmental Systems & Societies** Group 4: Sciences G4 Science courses: Biology Chemistry Physics Sports, Exercise & Health Science Environmental Systems & Societies** Group 5: Mathematics G5 Mathematics courses: Analysis & Approaches Application & Interpretation Group 6: Arts G6 Arts courses: Dance Music Theatre Visual Arts Core Theory of Knowledge Extended Essay Creativity, Activity & Service
© International Baccalaureate Organization 2024
The IB DIPLOMA
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CORE: THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK)
Question. Explore. Discern. HOW DO WE KNOW? TOK explores how knowledge is created, justified and questioned. Students examine evidence, assumptions and perspectives, making connections across their IB subjects.
THINK BEYOND THE OBVIOUS Through discussion and real-world examples, students learn to weigh competing claims, recognise bias and explain why a conclusion is convincing.
TWO ASSESSMENT TASKS
An Exhibition that asks students to explore how TOK concepts connect to the real world by using everyday objects and reflecting on what they reveal about knowledge, and a 1600-word essay on response to one of six prescribed titles that assesses a student's ability to think critically about knowledge and construct a wellevidenced and balanced argument.
WHY IT MATTERS TOK develops thoughtful, open-minded learners who can evaluate information and communicate a reasoned argument. Together, TOK and the Extended Essay can contribute up to three diploma points. It is required to be awarded the Diploma. A required part of the IB Diploma Programme Core. Source: International Baccalaureate | Programme guidance
The IB DIPLOMA
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CORE: CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY, SERVICE (CAS)
Create. Act. Contribute. LEARNING THROUGH EXPERIENCE CAS brings personal growth and community engagement into the IB Diploma. Students explore interests, take on challenges and reflect on what they learn beyond academic study.
THREE STRANDS, ONE JOURNEY Creativity: Develop ideas through arts and creative experiences. Activity: Build well-being through physical activity. Service: Work with others to meet a genuine community need.
SUSTAINED PARTICIPATION Students engage regularly for at least 18 months, balancing all three strands. They complete at least one collaborative CAS project lasting a minimum of one month.
REFLECTION AND COMPLETION A portfolio records experiences, reflections, and evidence of all seven learning outcomes. CAS carries no diploma points, but successful completion is required for the diploma.
A required part of the IB Diploma Core. Source: International Baccalaureate | Programme guidance
The IB DIPLOMA
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CORE: EXTENDED ESSAY (EE)
Research. Reflect. Discover. FOLLOW A QUESTION THAT MATTERS The Extended Essay is an independent investigation into a topic of personal interest. Students develop an evaluative question, complete focused and balanced research, and write a scholarly, balanced and evaluative argument
AN EXTENDED PIECE OF WRITING The final essay has a maximum of 4,000 words. Students evaluate sources, analyse findings and acknowledge others' ideas through accurate citations and referencing.
INDEPENDENT, WITH GUIDANCE A supervisor supports the process. Three mandatory reflection sessions help students review their progress; the final session is a concluding interview known as the viva voce.
PREPARATION FOR UNIVERSITY The EE builds research, writing and time-management skills. It is externally assessed and, together with TOK, can contribute up to three Diploma points.
A required part of the IB Diploma Core. Source: International Baccalaureate | Programme guidance
The IB DIPLOMA
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Academic achievement
36.5 25%
3- year average Diploma Points score (A*AA - approximate A-level equivalent)
Understanding the score To be awarded the Diploma, students must achieve a minimum of 24 points, which includes passing grades in the three Core components. Marymount students Marymount students consistently achieve grades well above the global average of 30 points.
Progress throughout the programme Excellent results are achieved through preparation and revision. A demanding question can reveal a gap in understanding; feedback can show how to structure an argument more clearly. Learning to act on that information is an important part of becoming a more effective student.
3-year percentage of students achieving 40 points or more (A*A*A* - approximate A-level equivalent)
A range of ways to demonstrate learning Final subject grades are awarded based on performance in both internally assessed coursework and external examinations. This ensures that students have the opportunity to demonstrate their learning in multiple ways, including written analysis, practical work, oral work or creative work. In most subjects, school-based tasks are externally assessed or marked by teachers and moderated by the IB.
Results with purpose Overall IB scores and subject choices both play an important role in university admissions. Universities may also specify grades in particular subjects, especially at Higher Level. Choosing an appropriate combination and understanding course requirements early help connect academic work with the opportunities a student wants to pursue.
The IB DIPLOMA
Preparing for University Choosing a university involves understanding what you want to study and the environment in which you will thrive. Marymount’s tailored university guidance supports students as they consider the next stage of their education.
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Identifying an academic direction Identifying academic strengths and interests helps shape degree choices. Wider reading, independent investigation and reflection helps with this discernment.
Making informed decisions Course content, teaching, assessment and location all influence university choice. A considered shortlist balances academic interests, entry requirements and the wider university experience. Understanding entry requirements Entry requirements vary by qualification, overall score, subject grades and additional assessments or portfolios. Early research and school guidance help inform subject choices and application planning.
Developing habits for independent study Managing extended tasks, evaluating information and responding to feedback build independence. Sixth Form at Marymount provides opportunities to develop these habits, placing students in the best position for success ahead of university education. Building a strong university application Strong applications demonstrate curiosity and engagement through specific examples. Reflection on reading, projects and academic challenges help communicate motivation for further study.
IB Diploma students had approximately three times the odds of enrolling at a top-20 UK university compared with matched A-level students. SIXTH FORM AT MARYMOUNT
-2021 study by Jisc, commissioned by the IB, using HESA data from 2013–14 to 2018–19
The IB DIPLOMA
A world of possibilities Marymount International School graduates are high achievers, attending prestigious universities in the UK and overseas, pursuing degree apprenticeships and successful careers. The universities below represent a selection of recent destinations attended by our graduates.
United States
Japan
Bentley University Carleton College Catholic University of America Fashion Institute of Technology Fordham University Franklin & Marshall College Spelman College Stanford University Wagner College Wake Forest University
Keio University University of Tokyo Waseda University
United Kingdom
Europe
Arts University Bournemouth Bird College Cardiff University City, University of London Durham University* Falmouth University Imperial College London* King’s College London* Kingston University London School of Economics and Political Science* Loughborough University MetFilm School Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts Newcastle University Ravensbourne University London Royal Holloway, University of London SOAS University of London
South Korea Yonsei
University College London University of Bath* University of Bristol* University of Cambridge* University of Dundee University of Edinburgh University of Exeter University of Manchester University of South Wales University of Southampton University of St Andrews* University of Surrey University of Sussex University of the Arts London University of Warwick* University of Westminster University of York *The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, top 10 UK universities 2027
CUHMED École Polytechnique École Supérieure (Paris) ESADE Forward College Glion IE University Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Maastricht University McDaniel College Budapest, RWTH Aachen University, Technical University of Munich University of Navarra University of Nicosia
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The IB DIPLOMA
IB graduates had 40% higher odds of achieving a first or upper-second-class honours degree than matched A-level graduates.
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-Duxbury, V, Westlake, C, Joice, W and Jones, E. 2021. International Baccalaureate students studying at UK higher education institutions: How do they perform in comparison with A level students? Bethesda, MD, USA. International Baccalaureate Organization
The IB DIPLOMA
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Known. Supported. Inspired.
Sixth Form is a time to grow in independence, discover new interests and develop a clearer sense of who you are. At Marymount, individual care supports that journey.
Academic guidance Subject teachers help students understand expectations, reflect on progress and respond to feedback. The IB DP Coordinator supports decisions about the programme as a whole.
Wellbeing and balance Students are encouraged to recognise the importance of physical and emotional wellbeing. Advisors and the wider pastoral network help them flourish.
A voice in the community
Collaboration, service and creative experiences offer opportunities to contribute, take responsibility and consider the needs of others. Through groups such as Student Council, National Honor Society, Boarding Council and the Student Goals & Implementation Committee, students can share their ideas, represent their peers and help shape school life.
An international outlook Different languages, cultures and experiences enrich everyday conversations. Students learn to express their ideas thoughtfully and appreciate perspectives beyond their own. Rooted in our mission, “That all may have life”, a Marymount education encourages young women to combine ambition with compassion and a sense of responsibility.
The IB DIPLOMA
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Life beyond lessons Sixth Form is also a time to develop friendships and take a more active role in the community. The experiences around the academic programme help our students develop as a person, how they work with others and where they can make a difference.
Participation and responsibility Marymount students take part in the arts, sport, service and leadership. These experiences offer different kinds of challenges: committing to a rehearsal, contributing to a team or helping a project move forward. They also give students opportunities to demonstrate reliability and initiative in situations where other people depend on their contribution.
Living in an international community Learning alongside people from different countries and backgrounds makes cultural understanding part of everyday life. Listening with curiosity helps students build relationships and prepares them for the diversity of university communities and the wider world.
Co-Curricular options include: Model United Nations National Honor Society Eco Schools IDEA Leadership Meetings MedSoc Oxford Club MAARS - Marymount's Astrophysics & Aerospace Research Society SGIC - Students Goals & Implementation Committee Robotics Club Chemistry Club Science Club Music Production & Composition Research & Innovation Opportunities Student Council
Choir Orchestra Jazz Band Piano Duets Music Theory Club Dance Club Art & Design Clubs Drama Clubs Writers’ Circle History in Movies Club Film Club Debating & Public Speaking Volleyball Football
Tennis Badminton Track & Field Strength & Conditioning Basketball Cross Country
The IB DIPLOMA
Scholarships & Bursaries
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Scholarships in a range of disciplines are available for students applying to join Marymount International School London in Year 12 (Grade 11). Scholarships may also be offered at other entry points, at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. Our Scholarship programmes are designed to recognise and celebrate excellence, commitment and engagement, while providing students with opportunities to further develop their talents through enrichment, leadership and participation in their chosen discipline.
Year 12 (Grade 11) Scholarships The following International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) scholarships are available:
Academic Arts Sports Service All-Rounder
Marymount is committed to ensuring that talented and motivated students have the opportunity to benefit from a Marymount education, regardless of their financial circumstances. A limited number of means-tested bursaries are available each year for families requiring financial assistance.
Marymount opened my eyes to the world as an opportunity that’s within reach. -Alumna, Class of 2018 (Bursary recipient)
© International Baccalaureate Organization 2024
The IB DIPLOMA
The Spirit of the IB at its best -Marymount London’s Evaluation Report, International Baccalaureate Organization, International Baccalaureate, Evaluation Report, 2021.