Newsletter 2024/25 Edition 01
It has been incredible to see our families return to our campus for another academic year. It has also been a delight to meet our many new families and get to know our new students as they settle into our school.
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How Ascot’s IB Diploma Prepares Students for University
The transition from high school to university can be overwhelmingly exciting for both students and parents. Will the language barrier be a problem? Are new environments and diversity a concern?
With our understanding of those concerns, we design to equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in higher education. Ascot’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, Our IB Diploma not only advances an academic framework but also fosters personal growth and a global perspective for the university journey.
Understanding the IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme is a two-year educational curriculum for students aged 16 to 19, culminating in a qualification that is recognised by universities worldwide. At Ascot, students in Years 12 and 13 engage in this comprehensive programme, which comprises six subject groups alongside core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), and the Extended Essay.
Students are required to select three subjects at Higher Level (HL), which involves four hours of lessons per week, and three subjects at Standard Level (SL), with three hours of lessons per week. Our requirement aims to develop both breadth and depth of knowledge across various disciplines.
Subjects Offered at Ascot International School
At Ascot International School, we offer a diverse range of subjects within the IB Diploma framework
Group 1: Language and Literature
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- English A Language and Literature
- Thai A Language and Literature
Group 2: Language Acquisition
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- English B
- Mandarin B
- Mandarin Ab Initio
- French Ab Initio
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
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- Business Management
- Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS)
Group 4: Sciences
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- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Environmental Systems and Societies
- Computer Science
Group 5: Mathematics
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- Analysis and Approaches
- Application and Interpretation
Group 6: The Arts/Electives
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- Visual Arts
- Music
How it Helps Develop Essential Skills for University
Fostering Independent Research Abilities
One of the core subjects of the IB Diploma is the Extended Essay, a 4,000-word independent research project where students explore a topic of their choice. This subject sharpens their research abilities, helps them develop and investigate research questions, and teaches them how to present their findings clearly and effectively.
Encouraging Critical Thinking and Analysis
The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) subject encourages students to reflect on the nature of knowledge. Through discussions and essays, they learn to assess various ways of knowing and explore how knowledge impacts different areas. This focus on critical thinking helps students develop the analytical skills they’ll need to tackle complex ideas and arguments in university.
Time Management and Self-Discipline
The skills that lead to success are time management and self-discipline in career paths in today’s world. The challenge of the IB Diploma Programme helps develop excellent time management and self-discipline among our students. Managing multiple subjects, assignments, and extracurriculars teaches them to be organised and prioritise effectively. These skills are essential for achieving success in university, where students need to manage a heavy workload on their own.
A Global Perspective and Social Responsibility
Engaging with the Community through CAS
The Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) part of the IB Diploma motivates students to get involved with their communities and build a sense of social responsibility. At Ascot, students can positively impact their surroundings through a range of activities, including volunteering, artistic projects, and physical challenges.
This real-world engagement not only enhances students’ learning experiences but also broadens their understanding of global issues. Universities are increasingly looking for applicants who show a strong sense of responsibility as global citizens, and the CAS helps students develop this important outlook.
Preparing for a Diverse World
In today’s interconnected world, understanding and handling cultural differences is more crucial than ever. Our IB Diploma Programme equips our students by focusing on language learning and intercultural awareness. Students develop the ability to communicate across cultures, which is an essential skill in our globalised society.
Recognition and Opportunities
The IB Diploma is widely recognised by universities as a high standard for university preparation. Top institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, and elsewhere appreciate the fact that the IB Diploma is an internationally recognised qualification. Over 1,000 colleges and universities in North America have special policies for IB graduates, often offering advanced standing or college credit based on their achievements.
This international recognition means that students graduating with the IB Diploma from Ascot have a competitive edge when applying to universities. Admissions officers are familiar with the rigour of the IB curriculum and appreciate the depth of knowledge and skills that IB students bring to their academic pursuits.
No more worries about the educational transition. With our hard work, Ascot International School uplifts the student’s skills to prepare for university success through the diverse subject offerings, emphasis on independent research, and focus on critical thinking.
Our goal is to raise students ‘ awareness not only in academic pursuits but also in good global citizenship. As students begin their university journeys, they carry the tools and confidence gained through their IB experience at Ascot, ready to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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Ascot International School’s kindergarten program lays a strong foundation for your child’s future academic and personal growth.
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An IB World School, accredited by CIS.