The number of pupils taking the International Baccalaureate qualification around the world rose by 3.9 per cent in November 2019, it was revealed today, as thousands of students received their results.
More than 18,700 students taking the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma programme (DP) and career-related programme (CP) received their exam results this morning.
Currently, more than 5,000 schools offer the IB programme across 150 countries.
Many independent schools in the UK use the programme as an alternative to A levels, as it involves the study of a broader range of six subjects at age 16-19 rather than the three or four studied at A level.
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The IB reported that more than 86,000 examination papers were processed in 14 languages, with more than 2,000 examiners working across the globe to establish international standards for each subject.
Dr Siva Kumari, director general of the International Baccalaureate, said: “I warmly congratulate all DP and CP graduates. I know that your hard work and commitment will be rewarded - both in the immediate term, with the highly-deserved award of your diplomas, and in the future, with enhanced prospects for your further education, your careers and your lives as a whole.
“You have been taught valuable skills for your future in the fourth industrial revolution, in which you will face wholly new contexts and challenges.”
“I would also like to thank all the IB educators - teachers, heads, coordinators - and all those in our great and growing community, including parents, who help to shape succeeding generations of IB students with their drive and passion, enriching lives and making the world a better place through education.”
Paula Wilcock, IB chief assessment officer, said: “Congratulations to the students who are receiving results today. We know that the past two years of study have prepared you to move into further education or employment and wish you every success on your journey in a highly connected, digital world.
“Thank you to our network of over 10,000 examiners who ensure that we are able to deliver valid and fair results year after year.”
In 2019, the IB eliminated its candidate registration fee of $172 dollars to give more students the option of studying its programmes.
