What is International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an excellent internationally recognised qualification ideal for those interested in pursuing an exciting and wide-ranging programme of study in six academic subjects. You also get involved in community projects and write a research-based essay. The course is equivalent to a full A Level programme and involves exams and coursework.

The IB diploma offers a brilliant platform into university level, be that in the UK or overseas, and/or into employment, where employers are looking for a diverse skillset. Its core elements ensure that IB students graduate from a holistic programme which will act as a strong foundation for the rest of their lives.

As part of the IB’s team building exercises we organise trips to Haven Banks Outdoor Centre to take part in activities such as raft building, climbing and kayaking. In addition to this many of our students participate in the trips and activities laid on by being members of the Reach Academy and our language teachers endeavour to hold residentials to France, Italy, Spain and Germany so that Language IB students can practice their speaking skills.

What will I learn?

Students study six academic subjects, including Maths, English Literature, Science, a Humanity and a Modern Foreign Language. Three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three subjects at Standard Level (SL), Alongside this there will be the study of core elements – which include Theory of Knowledge, a 4000-word Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

Where will it take me?

Our students go on to study at a wide range of university level providers, with many going on to Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, as well as studying overseas. The IB is a highly regarded qualification and recent research indicates that most UK universities view it particularly favourably, citing high success rates for their IB graduates.

Why choose this course?

The IB offers a broad and balanced curriculum that will enable you to continue to develop as a learner across a range of disciplines.

All of our teachers are experienced practitioners who are highly trained professionals. A prerequisite of teaching on the programme is to take part in an officially recognised IB developmental workshop that supports the specific needs of the IB and the learners in the classroom. They are experts in teaching smaller classes as well as being able to support learners in 1:1 scenarios effectively. Alongside an academic rigour comes an unbridled enthusiasm for their subject and the IB philosophy. Teachers have chosen to teach on the programme and are ideally suited to promote the unique nature of their specialist subjects. 

1:1 Mentoring and Support

The IB Diploma class sizes are generally smaller than many of the other classes across the college. This enables teachers to focus more on individual student academic and pastoral needs whether that be through giving specific feedback to a written assessment or the wellbeing support that can be needed throughout the course. Many of the IB students find this environment supportive and effective allowing them to thrive at Exeter College. Our tutors are highly experienced IB teachers who know how to approach the specific demands of the IB Diploma helping students manage deadlines and navigate the assessments within the programme through frequent 1:1 sessions. 

Our IB Staff

At Exeter College we ensure that our staff are trained to the highest standards. It is a requirement to teach on the IB Diploma that staff are trained in their specific subject through an officially recognized IBO course.  Alongside teaching the IB many of the staff also teach A-Levels giving them a broad range of expert, subject specific knowledge. The IB Staff are led by Edward Baxter, the IB Diploma Programme Coordinator who has 15 years’ experience teaching Geography and Theory of Knowledge on the IB programme in four different countries. Exeter College is the 3^rd setting in which he has managed the IB Diploma in his coordinator role. 

Studies in Language and Literature

English A: Literature HL and SL

Literature allows us to live other lives and experience the whole range of human emotion; in this course we travel through time and space – from ancient Greece with Antigone to contemporary Japan. We cover an exciting selection of both traditional and modern plays, poetry and novels, asking ‘what does it means to be human?’

We analyse texts through a number of critical lenses, exploring different influences and perspectives in our quest to understand how authors create meaning. Throughout the course we will develop detailed analytical and essay writing skills as well as responding to works creatively.

We study a selection of literary works such as Shakespeare’s Othello, the poetry of William Blake and Carol Ann Duffy, Nigerian novelist Chigozie Obioma’s The Fishermen and the graphic novel Fun Home by Alison Bechdel. In addition to works in English, we also study works in translation including the poetry of Anna Akhmatova and Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

In the study of literature your experiences and opinions matter – each student will bring their own unique perspective to the interpretation of the works, taking each text in new and unexpected directions!

English A: Language and Literature HL and SL

In the English A: Language and Literature course you will explore the complex and dynamic nature of language in both its practical and aesthetic dimensions. You will examine the crucial role language plays in communication, reflecting experience and shaping the world. Furthermore, you will consider your own roles as producers of language and develop your productive skills.

Throughout the course, students will explore the various ways in which language choices, text types, literary forms, and contextual elements all create meaning. You will hone your critical awareness of how texts and visual and audio elements work independently or together to influence the audience/reader.

We pick and choose from a selection of literary works such as the poetry of Carol Ann Duffy, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, the non-fiction texts of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Tennessee Williams’ play A Streetcar Named Desire and texts in translation such as Sophocles’ Antigone and Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

In addition to our literary study, we delve into the world of advertisements, journalism, digital media, political cartoons and even films, such as Bong Joon Ho’s 2019 Parasite.

This study of such a wide variety of communicative acts throughout the course will develop your sensitivity to the profound and pervasive influence of language in the world at large.

Language Acquisition 

German B SL

Why study German?

Studying German B at IB Diploma level is a wonderful way to deepen your knowledge acquired through your GCSE by studying familiar topics in Year 1 and moving onto discussing more current issues such as immigration, politics, or global warming in Year 2. The small class sizes allow for plenty of speaking and writing practice and allow you to have your lessons tailored to your needs and interests. In addition to speaking in class you will also have the chance to speak regularly with our native German assistant and we also run an amazing study trip to Berlin. Previous students have gone onto study German at university or have combined German with subjects such as Politics or History.

Course Outline

The course is arranged around 5 broad themes:

Identities – stereotypes, healthy lifestyles

Human Ingenuity – AI, social media, innovative technologies

Social Organisation – work, studying at university, volunteering

Sharing the Planet – immigration, the environment

How will I be assessed?

The IB German course is assessed at the end of year 2, through three written papers, and an individual speaking assessment.

Paper 1 Writing – where you will demonstrate your ability to express ideas clearly and creatively (one written task out of a choice of 3)

Paper 2 Reading and listening comprehension – two separate assessments featuring short questions to test your understanding of written German texts and audio materials.

Speaking assessment: the chance to discuss several topics studied in class.

Each equally weighted at 25% of your final grade.

German ab initio: SL course

Why study German?

This course is designed for students with little or no prior knowledge of German. Class sizes are small which means plenty of opportunities to tailor the lessons around each individual student. You will learn the language needed to communicate in a variety of contexts, both in speech and writing. You will also have the opportunity to write and speak about yourself, as well as discuss contemporary issues such as the environment. In the second year you will also spend time with our native German-speaking assistant, engaging in speaking activities to improve your oral fluency. There is also the chance to go on a study trip to Berlin.

Course outline

The course is framed around 5 IB themes:

Identities – exploring personal relationships, food, health, and lifestyle.

Experiences – describing routines, holidays, and celebrations.

Human Ingenuity – discussing technology, communication, and culture.

Social Organization – examining school, work, and communities.

Sharing the Planet – reflecting on environmental and global issues.

How will I be assessed?

The IB German Ab initio course is assessed at the end of year 2, through three written papers, and an individual speaking assessment.

Paper 1 Writing – asking you to write 2 short creative texts on a variety of topics

Paper 2 Reading and listening – asking you to answer a variety of different questions (e.g., True or False) on 3 different texts.

Speaking assessment: the chance to discuss topics studied in class.

Each equally weighed at 25% of your final grade.

French B: HL and SL

Why study French?

Studying French at IB Diploma level is a gateway to rich cultural experiences, a presence in global media, and countless career opportunities. Choosing French means acquiring a life skill which opens doors worldwide. Our students often go on to study languages alongside other subjects at university, for example, Politics, Law, or International Relations.

Course Outline

The course is arranged around 5 broad themes:

Experiences

Identities

Human Ingenuity

Social Organisation

Sharing the Planet

Within these themes, we will study a variety of sub-topics: We will begin with themes which resonate with your everyday life – technology, festivals, and social media, building upon the knowledge you gained at GCSE. As your language skills progress, the course gradually introduces more complex and thought-provoking subjects such as migration, identity, and human rights, encouraging deeper reflection and conversation. The small group sizes mean lessons are very much tailored to your interests and experiences.

As well as your timetabled sessions, you will also benefit from regular individual sessions with a Foreign Language Assistant. Students have also had the opportunity to take part in unforgettable trips to either Paris or Nice.

How will I be assessed?

The IB French course is assessed at the end of year 2, through three written papers, and an individual speaking assessment.

Paper 1 Writing – where you will demonstrate your ability to express ideas clearly and creatively (one written task out of a choice of 3)

Paper 2 Reading and listening comprehension – two separate assessments featuring short questions to test your understanding of written French texts and audio materials.

Speaking assessment: the chance to discuss a number of topics studied in class.

Each equally weighted at 25% of your final grade.

Spanish B HL and SL

Why studying Spanish?

Dive into the vibrant world of Spanish with our IB Diploma program, where language learning is anything but ordinary! Whether you choose Standard Level or Higher Level, our small, focused classes mean every lesson is tailored to your interests and goals.

HL students enjoy an extra weekly session dedicated to honing the advanced skills needed to excel, ensuring you’re fully prepared for success.

Beyond the classroom, you’ll benefit from support sessions focused on speaking practice. They are designed to boost your confidence and fluency in a supportive environment.

Our unforgettable trip to the stunning city of Seville offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish culture and put your language skills to the test in real-life situations.

Spanish is more than just a language; it’s a gateway to rich cultural experiences, a presence in global media, and countless career opportunities. Choosing Spanish means acquiring a life skill that opens doors worldwide.

How will I be assessed?

The IB Spanish course offers a balanced and comprehensive assessment structure designed to develop and showcase your skills across all areas of language learning.

Paper 1 Writing – where you’ll demonstrate your ability to express ideas clearly and creatively (one written task out of a choice of 3)

Paper 2 Reading and listening – two separate assessments featuring short questions to test your understanding of Spanish texts and audio materials.

Speaking assessment: the chance to shine through real-time conversation where we’ll discuss a number of topics studied in class.

Each equally weighted at 25% of your final grade.

What will I study?

Our Spanish curriculum is designed to keep you engaged by focusing on topics that are both relevant and relatable. You’ll start with themes that resonate with your everyday life—like technology, festivals, and social media—making the learning process natural and exciting. As you progress, the course gradually introduces more complex and thought-provoking subjects such as tourism, identity, and human rights, encouraging deeper reflection and conversation.

Core

Theory of Knowledge

Part of the Core of the IB Diploma Programme, Theory of Knowledge assesses students’ ability to consider where their knowledge has come from and the usefulness of knowledge itself. Debates can lead to interesting places like the classic flat earth question, which area of knowledge does Geography actually belong in and why is History treated like a privileged cousin to our other subjects?

In the first-year students will create an exhibition of objects answering the big questions such as “How important are material tools in the acquisition of knowledge?” and “How does the way that we organize or classify knowledge affect what we know?”

In the second-year students will answer one of six prescribed essays, all of which will be explored in detail in class.

TOK, as it is known, is a unique perspective on 16-19 education that is rarely taught, and one that all students enjoy in the end!

Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is an excellent way to set students up for university. It is a 4000-word research paper on a topic of the student’s choice. It provides the learners with the skills that they will need at university and acts as an excellent addition to the traditional subjects the students are taking in their IB Diploma Programme as a whole. Often students elect to write their extended essay in the subject they want to do at university, and it is a brilliant way to set students apart from other applicants and demonstrate their passion for the subject.

Individuals and Societies  

Geography HL and SL

Geography at IBDP is an opportunity to take a deep dive into the world around us. Examining both traditional and cutting-edge geographical concepts, the course encompasses how the power of different groups and entities determine the shape of our planet. If you have studied Geography before you will build upon your previous knowledge to develop ideas with a higher level of critical thinking. If you have not had the opportunity to study the wonderful world of Geography in the past, then no matter, all learners are welcome to discover what drives our lives.

Course Outline:

Paper 1:

Urban Environments (HL only)

Geophysical Hazards

Oceans and coastal margins

Paper 2:

Changing Population

Global climate- vulnerability and resilience

Global resource consumption and security

Paper 3: (HL students only)

Power places and networks

Human development and diversity

Global risks and resilience

Internal Assessment:

A fieldwork study of the sand dune ecosystem at Braunton Burrows.

History HL and SL

In History we look to explore the key historical themes of cause and effect, continuity and change by looking at a wide and stimulating variety of historical periods. Currently we look at inter-war relations and the development of World War Two, Imperial Russia and the Soviet Union, the Cold War and Mao’s China. We study these topics as students find them fascinating, these periods cover times of great stress and conflict, which makes for a really interesting history. Lessons are built around debate and discussion. You won’t be spoon-fed answers, instead you’ll be challenged to develop your own arguments and ideas that you will have to substantiate with historical evidence.

You will study:

Interwar relations- From the Paris Peace talks, to the failure of disarmament and the League of Nations.

The Authoritarian states of Nazi Germany, Bolshevik USSR and Mao’s China.

The Road to Global War looking the foreign policy of Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Imperial Japan.

Imperial Russia from Alexander II to Nicholas II covering the causes of the Russian Revolutions

The USSR/Russia from Stalin to Putin looking at the rise and fall of a superpower

The Cold War- from potential nuclear Armageddon to Reagan and Gorbachev

Global Politics HL and SL

Studying IB Global Politics will give you the chance to explore the forces that shape our interconnected world. The course examines pressing global challenges; from security and borders to human rights, inequality and the environment, and you will consider how political power is exercised, contested and has shifted in the 21st century. You will develop the skills to question assumptions, engage with different perspectives, and critically evaluate complex political issues. Lessons will involve research, discussion, and real-world case studies, giving you the opportunity to link theory to contemporary global events. This course will push you to think more deeply about power, justice and cooperation at local, national and international levels.

Course outline:

Core concepts: power, sovereignty, legitimacy, human rights, development, equality, sustainability, conflict, and peace.

Global challenges: borders, security, environment, health, identity, technology, equality, and poverty.

HL extension: engagement with the complexities of interconnected global challenges through Paper 3, drawing on student-led case studies and solution-oriented approaches.

Internal assessment: an Engagement Activity, where you connect your own political action or experience to political theory, analysis and reflection.

Psychology HL and SL

Discover the Mind: IB Psychology DP Course Outline

Welcome to IB Psychology – Unlock the Secrets of Human Behavior!

Are you curious about why people think, feel, and behave the way they do? Do you want to understand yourself and others better while gaining skills that are valuable for university and beyond? The IB Psychology Diploma Programme is your gateway to exploring the fascinating world of the mind — through science, research, and real-world applications!

What You will Explore in IB Psychology DP

Biological influences on behavior: how does your brain shape who you are? Explore neuroscience, brain functions, and the biological basis of behavior.

Cognitive processes: discover how memory, perception, and thinking work — and what happens when they do not.

Sociocultural factors: understand how society, culture, and environment influence behavior and mental processes.

Developmental psychology: explore how humans grow and change across the lifespan — from infancy to adulthood.

Psychology of human relationships: investigate how we form, maintain, and sometimes lose relationships that shape our lives.

Course Highlights

Engaging case studies: dive into real-life stories and experiments.

Interactive research: conduct your own psychology experiments and surveys.

Critical thinking: analyse different psychological theories and viewpoints.

Global perspectives: explore psychology through international contexts.

Skills for life: develop communication, research, and analytical skills.

Assessment Overview – What You will Do

Your final assessment will include a mix of exams and a research project where you get to show what you have learned about psychology and how you think like a psychologist!

Paper 1: connecting ideas and real-life

Section A: You will answer two short questions—one about biology, one about how we think or how society influences behavior. You will explain key ideas and give examples, like studies or real-life situations.

Section B: Two more short questions where you apply what you know to new, unseen situations. These will be based on different topics like development, or relationships.

Section C: One longer essay where you pick one of two questions to answer. Each question will ask you to talk about a specific idea, topic, and real-world context.

Paper 2: understanding research

Section A: During the course, you will do four hands-on activities—like experiments, surveys, and interviews. In the exam, you will answer questions about these to show you understand how research works.

Section B: You will get a new research study you have not seen before (it might even be made up). You will discuss the study using important ideas like bias, cause, and effect, or how research is done fairly.

Paper 3 (Only for Higher Level Students): data and research

You will look at four pieces of research data related to topics like motivation, technology, or culture, connected to areas such as learning or relationships.

You will answer questions about the data—some will be numbers and graphs; others will be descriptions. Finally, you will write a short essay deciding how well the data supports a particular idea.

Why Choose IB Psychology?

Prepare for university: Psychology is one of the most popular and relevant university courses worldwide.

Develop transferable skills: critical analysis, data interpretation, ethical reasoning, and communication.

Expand your horizons: understand diverse cultures and human experiences.

Be future-ready: gain insights into social issues and human behavior that matter today.

Sciences 

Biology HL and SL

The aim of the Biology IB syllabus is to integrate concepts, topic content, and the nature of science through inquiry. Each theme is considered in terms of biological molecules, cells, organisms and ecosystems. It will build on your previous knowledge of biology but at a much greater depth and links together the levels of organization of living organisms and their environment.

Course Outline:

Theme A: Unity and Diversity – Common ancestry has given living organisms many shared features while evolution has resulted in the rich biodiversity of life on Earth

Theme B: Form and function – Adaptations are forms that correspond to function. These adaptations persist from generation to generation because they increase the chances of survival

Theme C: Interaction and interdependence – Systems are based on interactions, interdependence, and integration of components. Systems result in the emergence of new properties at each level of biological organization.

Theme D: Continuity and Change – Living things have mechanisms for maintaining equilibrium and for bringing about transformation. Environmental change is a driver of evolution by natural selection.

Assessment is by 2 written papers, and all students also take part in a Collaborative Science project in the first year, with students studying chemistry and environmental sciences.

All students also complete a practical project for their Internal Assessment.

Physics: A new addition for September 2026 - HL and SL

To study physics is to attempt to understand the nature of the universe itself. It is the search for answers from how the universe exploded into life in the Big Bang to what the nature of time is itself. Some of the greatest discoveries in history have been made by physicists, and these discoveries have revolutionized our world—and physicists are continuing to change the way we think today.

Course Overview:

Syllabus content
A. Space, time and motion
B. The particulate nature of matter
C. Wave behaviour
D. Fields
E. Nuclear and quantum physics

Experimental programme
Practical work
Collaborative sciences project
Scientific investigation

Chemistry HL and SL

Why Study Chemistry?

Chemistry helps explain the properties and behaviour of matter, which is fundamental to understanding the world around us. The DP chemistry course therefore emphasizes the development of representative models and explanatory theories, both of which rely heavily on creative but rational thinking.

Through studying DP chemistry, students will become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other and of the ethical debates and limitations of creative scientific endeavour.

Sometimes referred to as ‘central science,’ Chemistry helps to connect physical sciences, like Maths and Physics, with applied sciences, such as Biology, Medicine, and Engineering. In fact, Chemistry is all around us and an understanding of the subject can help to answer many simple questions about everyday life!

What will you study within Chemistry in the IB Diploma?

Models of the particulate nature of matter;

Models of bonding and structure;

Classification of matter;

What drives chemical reactions;

How much, how fast and how far;

What are the mechanisms of chemical change?

Specific areas of study may include aspects such as atomic structure, energetics, kinetics, oxidation, equilibrium, alkanes and alkenes, thermodynamics, polymers, and electrochemistry.

Assessment is by 2 written papers, and all students also take part in a Collaborative Science project in the first year, with students studying biology and environmental sciences.

All students also complete a practical project for their Internal Assessment.

What skills will you get from studying Chemistry?

As it is a science subject, the process of learning it helps a student to learn how to:

be objective;

be analytical;

be methodical;

process (and in turn);

solve problems.

You can apply these skills outside academia, and the study of Chemistry can help understand current events.

What Careers can the study of Chemistry lead to?

Chemistry teaches you to be numerate, logical, and analytical, so most Chemistry graduates end up going into finance, management, engineering, and business if they do not do something within the sciences.

There are a wide range of Chemistry-related degrees available, including Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry and Polymer and Materials chemistry.

These degrees in turn can lead to a range of scientific careers as varied as medicine, dentistry, forensic chemistry, geochemistry, R & D management, pharmacy, chemical engineering, petroleum engineering, and perfumery.

Environmental Systems and Societies: SL only course

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) is a dynamic and interdisciplinary course that empowers students to explore the complex relationship between people and planet Earth. The subject blends science with social analysis whilst encouraging critical thinking, ethical reflection, and global awareness. The subject is perfect for those individuals who are

passionate about sustainability, intrigued by ecological systems, or driven to make a social difference in society.

You will study the following units:

Topic 1: Foundation – systems & values

Topic 2 Ecosystems & Ecology

Topic 3 Biodiversity & Conservation

Unit 4: Water

Unit 5: Land

Topic 6 Atmosphere:

Unit 7: Natural resources

Unit 8: Human populations and urban systems

At Exeter College, the subject is not just about learning theory, it involves practical lab skills and fieldwork skills. During your two years, you will have the chance to attend the following trips:

Fieldwork on Bicton Common and in the River Otter (compulsory)

Visit to Waste2Energy, Marsh Barton, Exeter (compulsory)

Dartmoor Zoo (optional)

Plymouth Aquarium (optional)

Nuclear power station, Hinkley Point C (optional)

Join us at Exeter and become a global citizen!

Mathematics  

Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI) HL and SL

Maths AI is one of two mathematics courses offered in the IBDP, designed for students who enjoy exploring real-world contexts and applying mathematical thinking to practical problems. It emphasizes the use of technology, mathematical modelling, and interpretation of results, making it ideal for students interested in fields such as social sciences, natural sciences, statistics, business, and arts. This Maths pathway sits best with the other subjects offered by Exeter College ID programme.

Course Overview

The AI course is offered at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). While both levels cover core mathematical concepts, HL delves deeper into complexity and abstraction, suitable for students aiming for university courses that require a stronger mathematical foundation.

The curriculum is structured around five key topics:

Number and Algebra – Covers basic arithmetic, sequences, financial mathematics, and algebraic manipulation.

Functions – Focuses on graphing, transformations, and modelling real-life situations using functions.

Geometry and Trigonometry – Includes measurement, shapes, angles, and trigonometric applications.

Statistics and Probability – Emphasizes data analysis, interpretation, and probabilistic models.

Calculus – Introduced at SL and explored in greater depth at HL, focusing on rates of change and optimization.

Key Features

Real-World Applications: The course is designed to connect mathematics with everyday life, encouraging students to analyse and solve problems from diverse contexts such as economics, biology, and environmental science.

Technology Integration: Students use graphing calculators and software tools to explore mathematical models, analyse data, and visualize concepts.

Internal Assessment (IA): A major component is the Mathematical Exploration, where students investigate a topic of personal interest using mathematical tools. This promotes independent learning, creativity, and critical thinking.

Skills Developed

By the end of the course, students will have:

Improved their ability to interpret and communicate mathematical ideas.

Gained confidence in using technology to support mathematical reasoning.

Developed problem-solving skills applicable to real-life scenarios.

Learned to critically evaluate mathematical models and their limitations.

Final Assessment

The final grade is based on:

External Exams: Two papers at SL and three at HL, testing mathematical understanding and application.

Internal Assessment: A written exploration worth 20% of the final grade.

In summary, Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation is a dynamic and engaging course that equips students with the tools to understand and apply mathematics in meaningful ways. It’s perfect for those who value context, creativity, and practical problem-solving in their mathematical journey.

Creativity Activity Service Section

Alongside the academic elements one of the focuses of the IB Diploma Programme is to develop students as well-rounded learners and in order to do this the students will complete their CAS Programme. They are expected to complete a series of developmental activities across the two years of the course which are divided into Creativity, Activity and Service. CAS a great opportunity for the students to embrace their love for a sport or learn a new skill such as a musical instrument. Exeter College will support the students throughout the programme by organising activity trips and enabling students to make links with charities and organisations that will form part of their service for this programme. CAS is a truly great way to boost a university application and to ensure learners are making the most of their time at Exeter College.