ISH is a certified centre for Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), a part of the prestigious University of Cambridge in the UK. CIE oversees the curriculum for student between the ages of 14 - 16, in our Grade 9 and Grade 10, which leads to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). Both the curriculum and the methods of assessment are appropriate for a wide ability range and lead to a qualification that is equivalent in standard to the British GCSE and international ‘O’ Level examinations. IGCSE provides a solid foundation for higher level further education courses and is recognised by universities and colleges throughout the world. Over one million candidates in 157 countries now take these IGCSE examinations each year.

Students will be offered a broad range of both compulsory and optional subject choices all of which are described in the IGCSE Handbook which is available in the School Office.

The core curriculum in each subject is within the ability range of a large majority of students. It provides a full overview of the subject and is targeted at students expected to achieve grades D to G. The extended curriculum, which comprises the core curriculum and the supplement, has been designed for the more academically able and leads naturally to higher education or professional training. It is targeted at those students expected to achieve grades A-C.

Should you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch with the IGCSE Coordinator, who can assist in providing you further details upon request. The IGCSE programme at ISH is described in a separate booklet available on our website and at the school office. If you would like to find out more about the IGCSE programme, you may also contact the IGCSE Coordinator (Contact details on page 4).

ii. International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

In the 1960's a group of educators from Geneva, New York and Oxford University perceived the need for a new approach to pre-university education that would combine the best aspects of various national school systems. Their primary aim was to design an international curriculum which would prepare students for universities around the world and at the same time address the intellectual, moral and aesthetic needs of future world citizens.

Out of their deliberations emerged the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is now considered the best secondary curriculum in the world not only because of the academic rigour, breadth and depth of its curriculum but also because it fosters independent study, creativity, adventure, service and encourages students to become lifelong learners.

The IB Diploma is now offered in more than 73 countries across the world, including India. It is the international equivalent of the A-Levels, Advanced Placements, Abitur, Matura and the +2 programme in India. Only schools accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organization are authorized to offer the curriculum and to have students write the examinations. IB Diploma holders gain admission to universities throughout the world, including the most selective.

ISH was the first school in the city of Hyderabad and in the state of Andhra Pradesh to be authorized to offer the IB Diploma. The first cohort of our students will graduate in June 2007. The IB Diploma programme at ISH is described in a separate booklet available on our website and at the school office.