New qualification with a difference being offered at Petroc in Barnstaple
PETROC in Barnstaple will soon be able to offer a prestigious alternative to A Levels in the form of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The IB qualification offers students the to take a broad range of subjects after their GCSEs rathe
PETROC in Barnstaple will soon be able to offer a prestigious alternative to A Levels in the form of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.
The IB qualification offers students the to take a broad range of subjects after their GCSEs rather than specialising in a handful of A Levels. It is delivered in 138 countries and recognised by major universities across the globe.
North Devon's first intake of students are already applying to study on the new programme at the college in Barnstaple from September this year.
Petroc has made it through a rigorous selection process to become a "World School" - one of a handful of colleges allowed to provide the diploma in the South West.
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"Local schools have been pressing us to offer the IB for years, alongside the A Levels and vocational qualifications we already run," said Huw Davies, Director of Curriculum and Innovation.
"It's a huge achievement to be granted permission to deliver the IB and this is all part of our strategy of offering the widest possible choice to our area's talented young people."
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It has taken two years to bring the diploma qualification to North Devon and more than 40 staff were involved when IB inspectors visited in November.
IB students take six subjects through two years, including English, Maths, a Science and a Modern Language. The broad-based curriculum is ideal for students who don't want to narrow their options post-16 and the qualification is welcomed by major universities in the UK and abroad.
Previously, the nearest World Schools were Exeter, Taunton or Truro.
To find out more about the IB Diploma Programme at Petroc visit www.petroc.ac.uk, the Advice and Guidance Evening at the Barnstaple Campus on January 20th, or contact Michael Ryan direct on (01271) 338101 or email mryan@ndevon.ac.uk.
