One of the world’s best pre-university programmes

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is widely recognised as one of the most rigorous and respected pre-university qualifications worldwide. It develops academically strong, independent and internationally minded students through a balance of intellectual challenge and personal growth, preparing them exceptionally well for entry into leading universities and future success.

King's College School Cascais is a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and pursuing authorization as an IB World School.*

Programme

The IBDP is a two-year, globally recognised qualification offered in the final years of secondary education. Students study six subjects, choosing one from each subject group, with three taken at Higher Level and three at Standard Level.

In addition to their academic subjects, all students complete the IB Core, which is central to the programme’s holistic philosophy:

- Extended Essay (EE)
An independent research project assessed through a 4,000-word written essay.

- Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
An exploration of the nature of knowledge, assessed through an oral presentation and a 1,600-word essay.

- Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS)
A reflective portfolio that promotes personal development, wellbeing and active engagement with the community.

Methodology

Teaching within the IBDP is inquiry based and student centred. Lessons encourage questioning, research, reflection and discussion, helping students develop critical thinking, intellectual independence and the ability to connect learning across different subject areas.

Personalised Approach

At King’s College School Cascais, students benefit from a highly personalised academic experience. Teachers work closely with students both in regular lessons and through additional pedagogical support sessions

where concepts are explored in greater depth, exercises are consolidated and individual study strategies are developed. This ongoing guidance helps students build effective learning skills and confidence as they prepare for examinations and future pathways.

Activities

IBDP students are fully engaged in the CAS programme, alongside leadership opportunities, volunteering projects, educational trips and enrichment activities. These experiences support personal growth, social responsibility and global awareness, reflecting the values at the heart of the IB philosophy.

Assessment

Assessment follows International Baccalaureate standards and combines internal assessments with final external examinations. The IBDP qualification is recognised by top universities around the world, including institutions in the UK, Europe, the United States and beyond.

Team

The IBDP is delivered by IB trained teachers and experienced subject specialists who provide close academic mentoring and personalised university guidance. Their expertise ensures students are supported academically, personally and strategically throughout the programme.

Subject Options at King's College School, Cascais

Students choose six subjects, one from each subject group. Three subjects are studied at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). In some cases, students may study more than one first language or all three sciences. Please contact us for personalised guidance on subject combinations.

Studies in Language and Literature

• English A Language and Literature

• Portuguese A Language and Literature

• Self Taught A (Standard Level only)

Language Acquisition

• Portuguese B

• French B

• Spanish B

• Spanish Beginners (Standard Level only)

Individuals and Societies

• Geography

• History

• Economics

• Global Politics

• Business Management

Sciences

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Computer Science

• Sports, Exercise and Health Science

• Environmental Systems and Societies (Standard Level only)

Mathematics

• Mathematics Analysis and Approaches

• Mathematics Applications and Interpretation

The Arts

• Visual Arts

• Theatre Studies

IBDP versus A-Levels

The fundamental difference between the IB and A-Levels is that the IB forms part of an overall Diploma, in which students study six subjects alongside three core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS).

The IBDP is therefore ideal for students who wish to pursue a broad and balanced education, combining languages, sciences, humanities, and the arts, while developing strong research and critical thinking skills.

In contrast, A-Levels allow students to specialise more deeply in a smaller number of subjects, offering flexibility for those who already have a clear academic focus.

* Only schools authorized by the International Baccalaureate can offer any of its academic programmes. Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org

IB World Schools share a common philosophy—a commitment to improve the teaching and learning of a diverse and inclusive community of students by delivering challenging, high quality programmes of international education that share a powerful vision. 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.