Why a child is eligible for admission in IEYC 1 even though he/she has not completed 3 years as on 31st July 2016 but is denied admission for Nursery in other Indian boards?

As per Cambridge rules a child needs to be minimum 14 years of age to appear 10th Boards but as per Indian education rules a child needs to complete 15 years for appearing 10th board exams. Hence the difference in age criteria.

Can a child studying in other Indian boards join mid-session in your school?

Yes, they can subject to availability of seats.

Does IEYC 1 curriculum includes writing of alphabets and numbers?

No. IEYC 1 curriculum includes recognition of alphabets and numbers and air, water and sand writing. Their fingers are too soft to hold thin pencils and write in formation. They do scribble a lot with jumbo crayons. It's more of concept learning in IEYC 1.

Is your curriculum at par with other Indian boards?

Yes. It is the approach of teaching and the techniques used by our teachers to make learning interesting and fun for the little ones that make us better. It is all about hands on practice. Our home room activities and learning revolve around the fundamental belief of the theory of Multiple Intelligence.

What is the student-teacher ratio?

12:1 is the student-teacher ratio. Our classroom has a capacity of 30 students. So each classroom has 2 teachers and 1 nanny.

What is the Cambridge Primary Programme (CP)?

The Cambridge Primary Programme (CP) is based on the most explicit learning standards that cover subject, personal and uniquely international understanding, the CIE provides teachers and schools with the scheme of work and learning objectives around which a dynamic and interesting curriculum for children is built.

CP focuses on academics and personal development and develops global awareness in students.

Learning is active and engaging. The CP units are focused around themes of real interest to children and contain dynamic, exciting things for them to research and record.

The curriculum contains specific learning goals for each stage of primary education. Each unit contains activities that focus on international issues.

What are the benefits of CP?

Foundation for secondary education
Cambridge Primary aids identification of a learner's strengths and weaknesses and can be used to support learning and development. It provides learners with excellent preparation so they can progress seamlessly into Cambridge Secondary 1 and beyond.

External benchmark
Cambridge Primary assessments, including Cambridge Primary Checkpoint, provide teachers with an international benchmark to inform their teaching and easily measure learners' progress over time. They also enable detailed, structured reporting to parents.

International curriculum
Appropriate and relevant internationally, Cambridge Primary has been designed to be culturally sensitive. It includes top-quality teaching and assessment resources appropriate for teaching and learning in local and international schools.

What is Primary Checkpoint Exam?

The students at the end of CP 5 take the Primary Checkpoint Exam conducted by CIE which is a diagnostic test highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the child in the three core subjects of English, Math and Science. This helps the teachers in training them with a concrete perspective in their checkpoint years.

How is CP different from the state/ICSE/CBSE board?

The core difference lies in the learning objectives for the students and the teaching methodology. It is inherently a student centric curriculum with emphasis on concept learning rather than just rote learning. Learning for lifr is the objective and not learning for exams. The teaching methodology is completely on the lines on 'Active Learning' where students are responsible for their own learning through engaging and meaningful activities which leads the child to the concept rather than being dished out by the teacher.

How does the school bring about holistic development?

The school has carefully planned the year for the CP students with a plethora of activities to team up with academics. The school offers a plethora of co-curricular activities which focuses on holistic development of children. A comprehensive Sports Programme including professional coaching in certain sports on our State of the Art Sports Ground, Creative Arts, Speech and Drama, Value Education through Film appreciation, Martial Arts, Adventure and Leadership Camps, Hobby Clubs and Field Trips complement the academic programme throughout the year. Guest lectures, author talks, are conducted to give students and faculty interesting insights into different subjects.

What is Cambridge CHECKPOINT?

Cambridge Checkpoint, a new and innovative diagnostic testing service, is a major landmark in the development of assessment services from UCIE. The tests cover all major areas of learning required in the first years of an international secondary education. Cambridge Checkpoint tests are available in English, Mathematics and Science. Checkpoint is not a formal qualification with a certificate, although a Statement of Achievement is produced. There is no failing or passing in this test. It is a way in which CIE can help students make the most of their educational opportunities.

How will the Checkpoint results benefit us?

The diagnostic reports generated by Checkpoint enable us to:

• Tailor individual student's learning programmes
• Monitor group and individual performance
• Provide information for reporting to parents
• Compare the performance of all students taking tests in that session
• Manage learning programmes within centers as students move between centers
• Predict performance in student's formal examinations

What are Checkpoint Tests like?

There are two papers in each subject, each approximately one hour in length. They provide good preparation for Cambridge IGCSE, by allowing students to experience an external exam. All the questions have been tested by Cambridge to ensure they are suitable for 14 years old and provide useful information and feedback.

How is the Checkpoint Report?

Each student will receive a Statement of Achievement and a report that provides more detail about his or her performance. Results are given as Checkpoint scores between 0.0 - the weakest performance and 6.0 - the best performance. The average score is between 3.0 and 4.0. The report gives a score for the subject as a whole and for the main topics, so that teachers can identify any important strengths or weaknesses. The report gives information about the questions that provide devidence of the students' strengths and weaknesses.

When are the Checkpoint exams held at SMSISJ?

Cambridge Checkpoint exams are held at the end of Grade VIII in April.

What is the website of CIE?

www.cie.org.uk

What is IGCSE?

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) administered by University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) is the world's most popular international qualification for14-16 years old. The IGCSE Programme is firmly established and recognized world-wide and is taken in 144 countries and in more than 2600 schools around the world. Currently, in India we have around 300 schools offering IGCSE course. It is well recognized in India as equivalent to Grade X and used as a preparatory level for A Level, International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) or State HSC. It is also equivalent to the Grade 10 examination of the CBSE and ICSE or the middle year Programme of the IB.

What is the advantage of IGCSE?

The IGCSE programme is more practical and application-based. It has a broader spectrum of subjects that lead to all-round development. IGCSE examinations test students' knowledge, not their memory and speed. The focus of the IG pedagogy is on how to learn rather than what to learn. The purpose of IGCSE is to produce global citizens. The IGCSE curriculum is more challenging, but the challenge is in the quality of assignments, not in the quantity of the assignments. The IGCSE has always emphasized adding value within a national context whilst also contributing to international level. The development focus is to safeguard distinctive cultural identity through specific language and literature syllabi, for example; or to include study of regional geography or history, whilst also encouraging an international outlook. Thus, the importance of an appropriate mix of global and local contexts is well recognized as an essential dimension of IGCSE.

What are the key features of IGCSE?

Provides an ideal foundation for higher-level courses such as the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, A Levels and the North American APT (Advanced Placement Test) Has worldwide recognition and is equivalent to the Certificate of Secondary Education from Indian education boards, General Certificate of Secondary Education, and O Level

Offers syllabi which reflect local economies and cultures within a global context, hence ensuring that students gain a wide perspective while recognizing and valuing their own environment

Develops key learning, problem-solving and investigative skills by encouraging an active, critical and questioning approach to study

Ensures a broad-based education, while encouraging a degree of choice.

How are IGCSE grades determined?

The IGCSE examination is suitable for virtually the whole ability range. It has an 8-point scale of(Grade A* is awarded for exceptional levels of achievement).To take account of differing abilities, there is a choice between Core and Extended curriculum papers in most subjects. This allows teachers to decide on the most appropriate level of papers for 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 C to G. The Extended curriculum, which comprises the Core curriculum and the Supplement, has been designed for the more academically able and leads naturally into higher education or professional training. It is targeted at those expected to achieve grades A to E.

GRADES AVAILABLE

Core Curriculum C D E F G

Extended Curriculum A* A B C D E

The overlap of three grades (C, D and E) is designed to accommodate students who perform either better or worse than their teachers expectations. Students who fail to meet the minimum satisfactory standard for either the core curriculum (Grade G) or the Extended curriculum (Grade E).

Will the selection of Core or Extended paper be mentioned on the final marksheet / result / report card?

No. There will be no mention of Core or Extended selection on the marksheet.

Who will decide the Core or Extended paper for a student?

The school in consultation with the parents will decide whether a student will opt for Core or extended.

What is the curriculum for IGCSE at SMSISJ?

At SMSISJC, for Grade 9 and 10 we offer the IGCSE curriculum. We offer a combination ofsubjects catering to the Science and Commerce streams. Each subject is certified separately,offering a variety of routes for learners of different abilities. With a choice of Core and Extendedpapers in most subjects, the IGCSE is suitable for students with different levels of ability.

When are the IGCSE Board examinations normally conducted?

Examinations are held in March.

Is the IGCSE Programme recognized by Higher Secondary Boards and Universities in India?

Yes, it is recognized by CBSE, CISCE and state education boards in India as a qualification for entryto class XI or for other higher secondary education courses. It is also recognized as class X qualification, as one of the prerequisites, for admission to undergraduate courses in India.

What options are available after completing the IGCSE ?

We appreciate that our IGCSE students will continue at S M Shetty Jr. College and follow the AS and A level Programme in classes XI and XII. They can also opt for A level programme in any other International school that offers the same. IGCSE also qualifies the students for admissions in all the Indian +2 boards (ISC/CBSE/HSC). IGCSE students are eligible for admission to Junior Colleges in Mumbai through both online and It is also pertinent to note that students who completed IGCSE can pursue IB Diploma programme.

What is International Baccalaureate Organization?

Founded in 1968, the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) is a non-profit educational organization based in Geneva, Switzerland. The IBO is an international organization, not associated with any particular country and free of any national, political or educational agendas. The International Baccalaureate (IB) offers high quality programs of international education to a worldwide community of schools.

How is IB different from any other board of education? Can my child cope up with IB?

The IB program is practical and application-based. It has a broader spectrum of subjects that lead to all-round development. IB examinations test students' knowledge, not their memory and speed. The focus of the IB pedagogy is on 'how to learn' rather than 'what to learn'. The purpose of the IB is to produce global citizens, but it can be well-integrated with the local curriculum.

What are IB World Schools?

Schools recognized by the International Baccalaureate Organization and offering the IB curriculum are known as IB World Schools. The list of authorized schools is available on the IBO website www.ibo.org.

What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program-IBDP?

Established in 1968, the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) was the first programme offered by the IB and is taught to students aged 16-19.

As of 16 March 2017, there are 3,104 schools offering the DP, in 147 different countries worldwide.

The IBDP is a comprehensive two-year course and is a rigorous academic program. There are a wide range of courses designed to meet the interests and requirements of different students. In addition to the courses offered, IBDP includes the Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) program, the Extended Essay and the Theory of Knowledge course.

What are the subjects in DP?

DP students choose one subject from each of the following six 'Subject Groups':

• Group 1: First Language (English)
• Group 2: Second Language (French, Spanish, Hindi)
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies (History, Economics, Business and Management, Environmental Systems and Societies, Information Technology in a Global Society)
• Group 4: Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies)
• Group 5: Mathematics and Computer Science
• Group 6: Electives (either Visual Arts or a second subject from Groups 3, 4 or 5)
• In addition, all DP students must study a two-year course called Theory of Knowledge (TOK); work to produce on Extended Essay (EE); and engage in Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS).

What is the difference between higher level and standard level IB subjects?

There is more breadth and depth in higher level subjects. The content in HL subjects requires 240 teaching hours versus 150 hours for standard level. Generally higher level subjects are more rigorous than Standard level.

What are TOK, EE and CAS?

Theory of Knowledge is an essay of 1,600 words written on a given title (from a choice of six), followed by a ten-minute presentation of the essay by the student in class.

The Extended Essay is an original independent research leading a DP student to produce a comprehensible written piece of 3,500-4,000 words in any chosen subject and title.

Under Creative, Activity and Service (CAS), each DP student must complete at least 150 hours of work spread over one-and-a-half years, engaging in some form of creativity, participating in sport or other physical action, and doing social service.

Can a student do the IB Diploma after completing his/ her schooling through a different board?

A student can join the IB Diploma Program after completing the grade 10 level qualifications from IGCSE, CBSE, ICSE or any other State Board .The Diploma program is equivalent to 10+2 level qualification.

Is the IB recognized in India and worldwide?

The rigor and high standards of the IBDP ensure that colleges and universities around the world recognize the IB Diploma as a superior academic program and a strong university - entry credential. The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) rates the IB Diploma at par with Class 12 CBSE, ICSE, NIOS or State Boards. Many educational institutions and colleges have published their policies and entry criteria for IB students on their websites. The information is also available on the IBO website www.ibo.org .Universities in over 110 countries recognize the IB Diploma and it will allow entrance to the most competitive universities around the world.

Why should I select IB for my child?

1. The IB Diploma has earned universal reputation for rigorous assessment, giving students access to the top colleges and universities in India and the world. IB is fast becoming the program of choice for Indian students preparing to pursue higher education abroad.

2. The IB curriculum equips students with the tools needed to succeed in higher education, such as self-confidence, preparedness, research skills, organizational skills and being actively engaged in self learning.

3. Some universities even offer scholarships to IB diploma holders.

4. University admissions around the world are getting competitive by the day. Admission officers are increasingly looking for other evidence that a student will succeed in the university - such as exposure to quality curriculum, research abilities, an international outlook and social service - all enhanced by the IBDP.

How are IB students assessed in the IBDP Program?

There are two kinds of IB assessments: External and Internal. Some assessment methods include portfolios/dossiers, written essays, studio-work, experimental work, oral commentaries, as well as written exams and are tailored for different learning styles. Considering that exams may or may not reflect what a student really knows and what he or she is able to do, having a variety of assessment tools allows the IB organization to fairly assess the student’s true ability. In addition, the grading system for all the IB programs is criterion-referenced, to allow each student’s performance to be measured against well-defined levels of achievement. Assessments with oral and written components are assessed by examiners worldwide and monitored by chief examiners with ample experience.

When are the IB exams taken?

The IB exams are taken in May of the second year.

Is IB too difficult for most students?

The IB is designed as a model of holistic education for the mid-range student and above. The IBDP program requires students to have are a strong work ethic, good time-management and solid study skills. All students are encouraged to complete assignments on time and meet the internal assessment deadlines.

What kind of Career Guidance is provided to students ?

The Career Counsellor will provide assistance to each student as they prepare for post-secondary studies around the world. The aim is to provide students with all the available and relevant data on which to base a decision to apply and/or attend a specific college or university. The career guidance counsellor will also prepare transcripts, school profiles and teacher recommendations, which will promote the student’s candidacy by highlighting known skills, achievements and potential.

What criteria do universities use for giving college credit to IB classes or for recognizing the IB Diploma?

The criterion varies from one university to another and from one country to another. Generally, Universities give credit to higher level subjects with grades (5-7) and up to one year college credit for a good IB diploma score. Due to the fact that the requirements of individual universities or countries are constantly changing, the School cannot guarantee recognition of the IB Diploma or IB certificate. It is the sole responsibility of students and their parents to verify the university/country requirements prior to initiating the IB Program. The IBO website provides a searchable database of countries and their recognition policies. It is strongly recommended that parents contact the universities directly to verify that the information is up to date. Visit the International Baccalaureate Organization’s website (http://www.ibo.org) for more details.

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