EXETER College International Baccalaureate (IB) students are celebrating after receiving world-class results.

Two IB students achieved results that have placed them within the top 1% in the world.

Student Ariadne Lyroudia, aged 18, of Pinhoe, Exeter, scored 44 out of a possible 45 points, landing her a place at Cambridge University to read Law.

The former Clyst Vale Community College student thanked her teachers, who she described as “experts in their field” and said of the course: “It is a massive challenge, but so rewarding. I have gained a mountain of knowledge from my course over two years. The IB is incredible and gives people the opportunity to truly develop as people.”

The 28 students completing their two-year diploma this year, achieved average points of 31.8. Many students gained top marks in their subjects, with 20 top scores of grade 7.

IB students take six different subjects, as opposed to the three traditionally taken by A level students. In addition to studying core subjects, such as Maths, English, Languages, Sciences and Arts, candidates also complete an extended essay and voluntary work.

As an internationally recognised qualification, the IB is particularly attractive to students who may wish to continue their studies abroad.

Izabela Wigier, aged 18, from Sidmouth, moved to England from Poland 5 years ago. Achieving a score of 40 out of a possible 45 has secured her place at the University of Exeter to read Economics. She says: “I loved the versatility of the course – being able to take 6 subjects and pursue all of my interests and it also gives me the option to go back to Poland with a recognizable qualification.”

Julen Beer, aged 17, from Exminster, moved to the area from Spain and has gained a place at university in Bilbao, Spain, to study Business Management later this year. He said “I’ve loved the course and the people I have met. It is a real challenge, but really worth it. Studying the IB means I have been accepted into a Spanish university.”

Exeter College was one of the first in the country to offer the IB 18 years ago, and was the first in Devon to do so.

Jane Russell, Head of English Languages, Communication, Classics and IB, says: “When you have achieved an IB Diploma, the world really is your oyster. The IB diploma has currency in a global capacity. We are all very proud of the students’ achievements and expect them to widen their horizons in their future progression to university and employment”.

For further information about studying the IB and other courses at Exeter College, visit www.exe-coll.ac.uk or contact Admissions on 0845 111 6000. For further general information about the IB, visit: www.ibo.org.