SECONDARY SCHOOL PROSPECTUS

The Secondary School caters for students of ages 11 to 18 and provides a structured, disciplined and studious environment in which students are encouraged to achieve high standards. Small class sizes (normally less than 20) allow each student to be given individual attention.

Teaching is subject-based with specialist teachers taking lessons rather than a class teacher teaching a range of subjects.

The Secondary School provides a wide range of opportunities for students to use and develop the skills that they have learnt in our Primary School. The close link with our Primary School means that the transition between Primary and Secondary is made as easy as possible.

Key Stage 3

Students start Key Stage 3 on entering the Secondary School in Year 7. This Key Stage continues into Year 8 and Year 9. Secondary lessons move away from the class teacher-based lessons of the Primary School to subject-specialist lessons in a wide range of subjects. Subjects taught at Key Stage 3 include:

Checkpoint examinations take place at the end of Key Stage 3. These are set by Cambridge University International Examinations (CIE) in English, Science and Mathematics. These examinations are a replacement to the SAT (Standard Attainment Tests), as they are more appropriate for students who intend to follow the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) in Key Stage 4.

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 4 comprises Years 10 and 11. During these two years, students work towards IGCSE examinations as indicated above. The aims of IGCSE are:

  • To support modern curriculum development
  • To set widely recognized standards
  • To promote international understanding
  • To encourage good teaching practice

Students at Braeburn study for between 6 and 10 IGCSEs and these include a common core of English, Mathematics and Science, and options including a Modern Language, a Humanities subject and an Arts subject. Most Braeburn students qualify to take the International Certificate of Education, which indicates that they have studied a balanced and wide-ranging curriculum. The option choices at the end of Year 9 are flexible and wherever possible individual student’s needs are taken into account.  

IGCSEs examinations are an excellent foundation for further study at either A-Level, International Baccaureate or technical and vocational courses throughout the world. 

A-Level 

Following success at IGCSES level (or its equivalent), students will be able to apply for entry into the 6th Form in order to study AS- and A-Level courses in a wide variety of subjects.  

The 6th Form is regarded as a prestigious position within the school community and, as such, 6th Form students can look forward to certain privileges. Amongst other things, we offer:

  • Common Room
  • Private study area with dedicated computers and internet
  • Prefect position of responsibility
  • The right to drive to school oneself (licence permitting)
  • 6th Form library privileges
  • Guidance with university and college applications
  • Personal mentor to guide students through their studies.

AS-Level examinations are taken at the end of Year 12, and can be used to gain admission to universities around the world. Students wishing to gain admission to UK universities need to complete 13 years of education, and as such are required to sit A-Level examinations at the end of Year 13.  

Students are given information and guidance regarding courses and universities around the world. Prospectuses and application forms are available and, here again, experienced staff guide students through the application processes.  

Throughout the two years, students also have lessons in PE, ICT, PSHE, Careers and Study Skills. In addition, they will be able to take part in the extra-curricular programme, including the Dragon Award. The aim is to keep the students’ minds alert to the wider world and to life beyond their studies. After all, universities and colleges prefer candidates with a good, all-round education. 

The A-Levels are challenging courses and should only be attempted by those who are willing to work hard. If students come to us in the right frame of mind, we have the staff and facilities for them to make the most of their two years in the 6th Form. 

As an alternative to A-levels, the following courses are available at Braeburn College in Nairobi:

  • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma (2-year course with a wider focus. Students take 6 subjects and undertake a range of additional academic and non-academic course activities)
  • BTEC National Diplomas (2 year courses with a detailed focus on a single vocational area such as Business, IT, Travel & Tourism)
  • BTEC Higher National Diplomas (2-year courses covering courses for the 1st and 2nd years of a university degree, giving access to 2nd or 3rd year in British universities and some American universities)

Click here to visit the Primary School prospectus.

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Last updated on 28-Apr-2008

 

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EARLY YEARS PROSPECTUS

PRIMARY SCHOOL PROSPECTUS

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