Mr Gardner (Senior Deputy Head – Teaching and Learning)

On Monday, students in Year 10 engaged in an IB (International Baccalaureate) experiential learning day to gain a better understanding of the programme ahead of the formal Sixth Form options process in the Autumn Term.

IB specialist teachers from across the school delivered subject focused workshops which provided the students with an insight into the IB curriculum offer at BGS, as well as an understanding of the approaches to learning which the IB promotes, including critical thinking and communication skills.

The students were also given the opportunity to hear from BGS alumna, Hannah Ventisei (BGS 2014, pictured) who shared her experiences of studying the IB at BGS, and the impact of the programme on her further education and career pathways: she went on to read English and French at the University of Durham and has begun a career with leading food company, Danone. She reflected on how the skills she developed through the study of the IB Diploma helped her manage the demands of her degree and the challenges of the working world.

Later in the week the students also engaged in assemblies linked to applying to international universities and additional opportunities for those interested in taking a gap year before starting university.

Mrs Woolley (Director of Sixth Form) will be launching the formal options process for Year 11 students and parents in the Autumn Term.