Learning Lifelong Skills
Pupils at Stonyhurst College have the opportunity to study for the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme which offers a hands-on, career-focused way of studying
The International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) is a vocational Level 3 qualification with international recognition and is an alternative route of study to A levels for pupils aged 16-19. Stonyhurst College explains the many and varied benefits of embarking on the IBCP.
What is the IBCP?
At Stonyhurst IBCP pupils can choose to specialise in either sport or business career-related studies and engage with a rigorous study programme that genuinely interests them while gaining transferable and lifelong skills in applied knowledge, critical thinking, communication and cross-cultural engagement.
Who is the programme suited to?
The IBCP is designed for those who are interested in pursuing a more hands-on, career-related approach to education in Sixth Form and who already know they would like to pursue a business or sport-related career. The IBCP benefits pupils who prefer a structured way of learning with timetabled support and in-person teaching. Stonyhurst attracts talented sportsmen and women competing at national or regional level who find the flexibility of the IBCP timetable suited to their intense training schedules and match days.
What are the benefits of the IBCP for pupils?
The vocational aspect of the course offers much more flexibility to A levels, and fewer exams. Exams are assessed over two years so there is no need for an intense period of revision at the end of the course, as is the case with A levels. During the two-years IBCP pupils at Stonyhurst foster attitudes and habits of mind that allow them to become lifelong learners willing to consider new perspectives. They become involved in learning that develops their capacity to make a positive difference while the vocational aspect of the course prepares them for effective participation in the changing world of work. Pupils develop a range of work-related competencies and deepen their understanding in specific areas of knowledge.
What does an IBCP class look like?
IBCP pupils are taught in small class sizes with opportunities for face-to-face lessons which leads to enhanced confidence.
Can pupils progress to university having studied the IBCP?
Yes, studying the IBCP opens up the option for studying business and sport related subjects at universities across the world. Universities and employers recognise the benefits of the hands-on vocational approach to learning.
What subjects are IBCP pupils able to study at Stonyhurst?
Pupils can choose two subjects, in addition to their CTECH in either sport or business. Subjects typically include psychology, economics, business and management, history, biology, English, music, visual arts, and geography. Pupils at Stonyhurst also benefit from Language Development, learning British Sign Language, and partake in 50 hours of Service Learning in order to teach pupils how to plan their time effectively, commit to a cause and manage other people. This can be in the form of sports coaching or volunteering. Pupils also take part in a Personal and Professional Skills module, teaching them skills such as interview techniques and CV writing.
Do IBCP pupils get to mix with pupils taking other courses at Stonyhurst?
Yes, there are many opportunities to mix with other pupils within the exciting and extensive co-curricular programme, in the boarding house, during lunch time and in the newly renovated Sixth Form hub. IBCP learners also have lessons with those who take the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme – another course offered at Stonyhurst Sixth Form.
Stonyhurst
Clitheroe BB7 9PZ
01254 826345
stonyhurst.ac.uk
