If you are considering a new school for your child, you may be wondering about the differences between the United Kingdom National Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate. While there is significant overlap between the two curricula, it’s important to be aware of the differences so you can prepare your child for a seamless transition from a British school to an award-winning international school in Singapore.
At OWIS Nanyang, we offer IB PYP, Cambridge Modified Lower Secondary Programme, Cambridge iGCSE and IBDP programmes to our students, providing them with a strong academic foundation and a holistic educational experience that prioritises their social and emotional wellbeing. Our learning outcomes are underpinned by the UK National Curriculum, making the transition easier for our students from the UK. This gives them an international education which will still be suitable if they wish to go to university in the UK or anywhere else in the world.
Comparing the UK Curriculum to the IB
Both the National Curriculum in the United Kingdom and the International Baccalaureate are widely recognised around the world as two of the top curricula options for young learners. Whether you have a child in primary school or secondary school, you will want to understand the differences between these two curriculum options before you make the transition to an international school in Singapore.
The Structure of the UK Curriculum
According to the Government of the United Kingdom, the UK Curriculum is a national curriculum that outlines standards and subjects to be taught to all primary and secondary school students in British schools. Following Early Years education from age 3-5, it is structured into five key stages, which include:
- Key Stage 1 (Years 1-2): Designed for learners between 5 and 7 years old.
- Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6): Designed for learners between 7 and 11 years old.
- Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9): Designed for learners between 11 and 14 years old.
- Key Stage 4 (Year 10-11): Designed for learners between 14 and 16 years old.
- Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13): Designed for learners 16-18 years old.
Often described as a broad and balanced curriculum, the UK National Curriculum emphasises subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Design and Technology, Art and Design, History, Physical Education, Music and Foreign Languages.
Students have the opportunity to pick their subject areas and personalise their learning pathway for GCSE and A Levels (KS4-5).
IB Programmes
The International Baccalaureate or the IB provides three frameworks for the different stages of a student’s life in school:
- The Primary Years Programme: Designed for young learners between 3 and 12 years old.
- The Middle Years Programme: Designed for children between the ages of 12 and 16.
- The Diploma Programme: Designed for students in the pre-university grades between the ages of 16 and 19.
Often described as a comprehensive, transdisciplinary curriculum, IB programmes are anchored by inquiry-driven academic coursework and supported by a commitment to holistic education. Students are introduced to a wide range of subject areas, and themes are used to help students create connections across these subjects. It emphasises 21st-century skill development through inquiry-led learning experiences, giving students voice and choice over their educational experience.
By offering students more choices within the curriculum, and complementing academic growth and development with extracurricular activities, the IB nurtures and cultivates well-rounded learners who develop a deeper connection with the material being presented both within and outside the classroom.
IB Programmes vs British/UK Curriculum
Language Requirements
Both the UK National Curriculum and the IB require students to study foreign languages during primary school and secondary school. Foreign language study not only allows children to speak, read, and write in another language, but it also improves their cultural awareness and makes them well-rounded individuals.
Within the UK National Curriculum, students are required to study modern foreign languages in Key Stages 2 and 3. Specific languages are not outlined, though most British schools offer courses in Spanish, German and French.
The IB also allows for foreign language study in both primary and secondary schools. At One World International School’s campuses in Singapore, for example, we offer Mandarin and French as a second language to students between the ages of 3 and 12. All our courses are taught in English, giving students proficiency in multiple languages. In addition, the IBDP requires students to complete foreign language studies, and we offer Spanish, French or Mandarin at OWIS Nanyang.
Assessment Differences
Perhaps one of the most significant differences between the UK National Curriculum and the IB is the approach to assessment. While both curricula emphasise the importance of assessing students to determine knowledge gained and skills acquired, these frameworks take distinctly different approaches to the actual assessment process.
Within the UK curriculum, students are required to complete a series of standardised tests to determine if students have achieved the standards that are outlined in the curriculum. This type of assessment aligns with the teacher-led approach that is used within the UK curriculum.
The IB PYP and IBDP follow a more inquiry-led, discussion-based approach, focusing more on conceptual knowledge and transdisciplinary topics and giving students more autonomy over their learning experience. While assessments in the IB PYP are formative in nature, the assessments in the IBDP in particular, include practical applications and exams. While some of the assessment methods are similar to those of UK schools, the main difference lies with the students being explicitly assessed for the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity and Service, which allow for a more holistic education and assessment.
Cultural Integration and Global Perspectives
Both the UK National Curriculum and the IB DP are recognised by elite universities around the world as two of the premier curricula options. However, the programmes of the IB stand out as being truly multicultural for emphasising cultural awareness and promoting global perspectives.
One of the ways that the IB framework promotes cultural awareness is by placing a heavy emphasis on community involvement and service. Students in the IBDP, for instance, are required to complete the Community, Activity, Service component of the curriculum, which allows students to get involved in their communities and give back in a meaningful way. Through these service experiences, students develop a better understanding of the perspectives and needs of others, making them more prepared to interact with others in a global economy.
Curriculum Structure & Subjects
There are three distinct programmes provides by the IB: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3-12, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11-16, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16-19. Each programme has a unique framework designed to cater to the specific developmental needs of students at those ages. (OWIS provides the IB PYP and IB DP, as we have opted for Cambridge curricula as the bridge between the two in Secondary School.)
On the other hand, the British Curriculum is structured into five key stages, with a predetermined set of subjects that students study at each stage. This provides a more linear and structured approach to learning compared to the IB’s flexibility.
In terms of subjects, both curricula offer a wide range, including languages, sciences, mathematics, humanities, arts, and physical education. The IB programmes encourage students to explore their interests, while the British Curriculum typically offers more standardised combinations of elective subjects.
While students can choose their subjects at the GCSE and A-level stages in Secondary School in the UK, the number of subjects taken at the A Level are more limited than IBDP (typically students do 3-4 subjects). Hence, students end up narrowing down their interests very early, which limits their university course options compared to the IBDP that keeps all subject doors ‘open’.
Teaching Methodologies
The difference between the IB programmes and UK curriculum is also evident in their teaching methodologies. The IB PYP and IBDP emphasise inquiry-based learning, fostering a student-centred environment where students actively participate in their learning journey. This approach encourages students to ask questions, investigate, and discover knowledge and skills independently.
Conversely, the British Curriculum traditionally places more emphasis on teacher-led instruction. While it also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, the IB’s inquiry-based approach allows for greater student autonomy and ownership of their learning process.
Recognition & Acceptance
As previously highlighted, universities worldwide widely recognise and accept both the IB DP and the British Curriculum. However, the IB DP curriculum is generally considered more internationally focused and academically rigorous, making it a popular choice for students aspiring to attend universities abroad.
The IB vs UK curriculum choice often comes down to individual student needs and preferences. The IB’s international focus and inquiry-based approach appeal to students seeking a global perspective and independent learning style. In contrast, the British Curriculum’s structured approach and emphasis on core subjects may suit students who thrive in a more traditional learning environment.
Is IB or British Curriculum Better for Students?
Determining whether the IB or British curriculum is “better” depends entirely on the individual student’s learning style, interests, and goals. Both are highly respected and offer pathways to top universities worldwide.
The IB programmes offered at OWIS Singapore are renowned for their holistic approach, developing not just academic knowledge but also critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and a global perspective. It’s ideal for students who thrive in inquiry-based learning and seek a well-rounded education that prepares them for international universities and careers.
The British Curriculum, with its structured approach and focus on core subjects, is a great fit for students who prefer a more traditional learning environment and have specific career paths in mind, such as medicine, law, or engineering. It provides a strong foundation in essential subjects and allows for specialisation at higher levels.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the student’s individual needs and aspirations. If you’re considering moving from the British curriculum to the IB, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each and choose the one that aligns best with your child’s learning style and future goals.
At OWIS Nanyang, we have chosen the learning objectives for English and Maths of the UK National Curriculum to underpin the frameworks of our IB programmes. We also offer the modified Cambridge Lower Secondary and Cambridge IGCSE programmes that are underpinned by the content of the UK National Curriculum to provide a balance.
Bridging the Gaps Between the UK Curriculum and the IB
Your child will receive plenty of support as they transition from their British school to One World International School as their new international school in Singapore. In addition to the pastoral care and academic care that they receive from our IBDP coordinator, you can also use these strategies to help your child during this adjustment period:
- As we follow the learning objectives of the UK National Curriculum in the IB PYP, if your child is in Primary School, you can reassure them that a fair bit of what they learn in English and Maths would be similar to their previous school.
- Visit the OWIS Nanyang campus in advance. By scheduling a campus tour, you and your family can become more familiar with our sprawling campus and learn more about how we will support your child during this transition. You could also request to meet with individual subject teachers or department heads for any concerns or enquiries related to the subject content and transition.
- If your child is entering IBDP Grade 11, you can encourage them to choose courses that align with their strengths, interests and career aspirations. Your child can meet the university counsellor to understand how these courses will form a pathway to their future academic and professional goals.
- Learn about local customs in Singapore. When you relocate to a new country, there are sure to be cultural differences that may be surprising or even uncomfortable. By familiarising your child with the culture and traditions of Singapore, they will arrive on campus feeling confident about their ability to meet new friends and excited about the possibilities that come with living in a new country.
- Reassure your child that they can and should ask questions in class. Much like the UK National Curriculum, the IB relies heavily on inquiry-led learning. However, IB teachers consider themselves to be guides rather than instructors, which might feel a bit different if your child is accustomed to the teacher-led instruction that is common in British schools. By empowering your child to ask questions and make mistakes, you are helping them feel more comfortable, and ultimately be more successful, when they arrive at their new international school in Singapore.
- Students need to be much more independent than in the UK to be able to thrive in the IBDP. They have to manage a much larger and broader course load (for example, to juggle the academic subjects with the TOK, EE and CAS) and must be prepared and willing to self-motivate and drive their own learning forwards. This is something you can encourage your child to develop.
In many ways, at OWIS, the framework of the IB’s programmes build upon the rigorous academic structure of the UK National Curriculum, while providing students with more opportunities to access a holistic educational experience. This develops them as a ‘whole person’ due to the focus on skills and developing the learner profile.
Learn More About the Leading International School in Singapore
At One World International School Nanyang and Digital Campus, our multicultural community welcomes students from around the world, including those who have been at schools that offer the UK national curriculum. To learn more about the IBPYP and IBDP at OWIS, and discover how your child can enjoy a seamless transition, schedule your campus tour today.
