International Secondary & High School in Singapore: IGCSE & International A-Levels at EtonHouse

Our Middle School (EtonHouse Secondary One to Three) builds upon the inquiry-based IB Primary Years Programme by integrating project-based learning into our curriculum design. Students engage in a broad, academically rigorous curriculum alongside opportunities for them to explore personal interests and develop essential skill sets, preparing them for success in the IGCSE programme.

Through small class sizes and close relationships with teachers, students receive the individualised attention and feedback they need to build confidence and hone skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.

Our curriculum draws inspiration from the British system and adapted for our international context. In addition to core subjects, students also participate in our Lifeskills programme and enjoy a wide range of co-curricular opportunities. These formative years provide students with the opportunity to flourish emotionally, socially, and academically, laying the strong foundations necessary for a successful transition into the IGCSE years.

In Upper School (EtonHouse Secondary Four & Five), students undertake the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), a globally recognised qualification that prepares them for A-Levels and university study. The IGCSE is equivalent to the British’s GCSE and is highly respected by top universities and employers worldwide, offering students a wide range of opportunities in both education and career. IGCSEs are externally set, marked, and certificated examinations, ensuring international recognition and credibility.

Our IGCSE curriculum is both flexible and rigorous, offering a wide choice of subjects that reflect students’ interests and future aspirations. All students study a core curriculum and select elective subjects that align with their strengths and goals.

Core Subjects:

• English Language
  
• English Literature
  
• Mathematics
  
• Science (Double Award)
  

Elective Options:

• English (Additional Language), Chinese, Spanish, History, Geography, Computer Science, Business Studies, Design & Technology, Art & Design, Music, PE (Physical Education)

The IGCSE programme encourages students to engage with a variety of subjects and make meaningful connections between them, which is fundamental to our approach. To ensure every student’s success, we work individually with each student to develop their Personalised Pathway Plan@14. This individualised action plan helps students make informed choices when selecting the courses that best match their personal strengths, interests, and future career aspirations. Developed in Year 9 through one-on-one discussions with staff, this plan ensures that students are fully prepared as they transition into Upper School.

In addition to their academic studies, all students participate in the Lifeskills programme and Physical Education. These courses are designed to support students’ wellbeing, personal development, and readiness for life beyond school. The Lifeskills programme includes practical sessions on study skills, financial management, wellbeing, and relationships, delivered by experienced teachers and guest speakers.

As part of the EtonCore programme, students have access to a variety of enrichment opportunities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Work Experience Week, which broaden their perspectives, build leadership skills, and support their overall personal growth. Students also take on positions of responsibility, organise school functions, and develop essential leadership, teamwork, and organisational skills. Through these experiences, they build a comprehensive and meaningful CV, helping them stand out in university admissions and ensuring they grow both academically and personally.

The IGCSE programme at EtonHouse equips students with the academic knowledge and life skills needed to thrive in higher education and their future careers. By combining rigorous academic preparation with personalised support and holistic development, our students are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future with confidence.

Our EtonHouse High School One & Two programme culminates in the International A-Levels (IAL), offered by Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel, a globally recognised qualification that prepares students for university and beyond. The High School (Sixth Form) Programme at EtonHouse International School Orchard is designed to help students meet the increased expectations of universities and employers. We place strong emphasis on student agency, giving learners the autonomy to shape their academic journey while receiving guidance every step of the way. Besides achieving strong academic results, students are expected to develop as confident young adults who can take responsibility, be accountable, and have the ability to set and meet personal targets.

International A-Levels are qualifications offered to students aged 16 to 18 at international schools globally. They are equivalent to British A-Levels and are highly respected by universities and employers, providing a direct path to university study. In 2024, over 400,000 students took the Cambridge A-Levels, compared to 140,000 pursuing the IB Diploma, highlighting its widespread popularity and strong reputation.

Universities do not have a preferred qualification between the A-Levels and the IB Diploma. What matters most is the grades that students achieve and overall achievements, and International A-Levels offer a unique advantage for success.

How International A-Levels Offer a Unique Advantage for Success:

• Tailor Subject Choices to Individual Strengths: Unlike the IB Diploma, which requires students to study 6 subjects across different subject groups, IAL only requires students to choose 3 or 4 subjects to specialise in and study in depth over two years. Students can focus on the subjects that they are strong in or interest them and that are required for their intended university degree. Most university entry requirements specify only three grades at A-Level.
• Modular Approach: The International A-Level programme follows a modular approach, where students take AS exams at the end of Year 12, and A2 exams at the end of Year 13, which test the content covered in the second year. The AS-Level grade, worth half the equivalent A-Level grade, provides universities with a valuable early indicator of academic strength and potential before the final A-Level results are available. After completing their AS exams, students decide which 3 subjects to continue into Year 13. The final A-Level grade is an average of the AS and A2 exam results.

Flexibility in Retaking Exams: With two examination periods each year, students can take exams in May/June and have the option to retake A2 modules in October/November if necessary, ensuring they can achieve their best possible result to secure their place at university.

• More Time for Broader Interests: With fewer subjects, students have more time for self-directed learning and the opportunity to explore other interests through our unique EtonCore programme, Lifeskills course, and Physical Education programme. These initiatives are designed to enrich students’ Sixth Form experience, encouraging them to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners. Additionally, they help students build a comprehensive and meaningful CV, which can enhance university applications and future career opportunities.

Through the Personalised Pathway Plan@16, each Sixth Form student works closely with staff to craft a personalised academic journey that balances academic goals with personal growth. The Personalised Pathway Plan@16 is an individual action plan, developed through discussions in Year 11, to identify the most appropriate A-Level courses to maximise academic potential while supporting personal development. These discussions also cover career aspirations, helping students make informed subject choices.

Subject Choices Offered:

• Art & Design
• Biology
• Business
• Chemistry
• Chinese
• Computer Science
• English Literature
• Further Maths
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics
• Media
• Physics

Comparing Post-16 Qualifications: International A-Levels, IB Diploma & British A-Levels

International A-Levels vs. the IB Diploma
The IB Diploma requires students to study six subjects across disciplines, including areas they may be less confident in. It also includes three core components—Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)—which can impact the final IB score. (Note: While CAS is not graded, failing to complete it means the student will not be awarded the diploma.)

In contrast, International A-Levels allow students to specialise in three or four subjects aligned to their strengths and university goals. This focused, flexible structure often leads to stronger academic performance and reduced pressure.

Both qualifications are well-respected by universities worldwide; the best fit depends on each student’s individual learning preferences and aspirations.

International A-Levels vs. British A-Levels

Both qualifications are academically rigorous and widely accepted by top universities. British A-Levels are typically offered in UK schools, with content often anchored in the UK context. In contrast, International A-Levels (IAL), like those offered at EtonHouse Orchard, are designed for global learners. Whilst the content of these courses is similar, the context in which they are placed is non-country specific and therefore more suited to an international context, making them especially appropriate for students in international schools or those planning to study abroad.

Read our blog on Everything you need to know about International A-levels in Singapore

At EtonHouse Orchard, we believe learning goes beyond textbooks. Each individual will be provided with opportunities outside the classroom to challenge themselves, promote independence and nurture talents.

Our bespoke EtonCore programme empowers students to explore their passions while developing essential life competencies. As an integral component of our Personalised Pathway Plan@16, it encompasses diverse electives and accredited pathways that include:

• Researching and producing an independent essay on a self-selected topic through the externally accredited Extended Project Qualification
• Leading community service initiatives through the EtonHouse Community Fund
• Pursuing the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a globally recognised qualification that develops young people through physical recreation, skills development, adventurous journeys, and voluntary service
• Engaging in partnership programmes and residential experiences that provide authentic real-world learning
• Collaborating with overseas schools across the EtonHouse global network to cultivate international perspectives

The EtonCore programme develops principled, critical thinkers who embrace challenges and calculated risks. Rooted in EtonHouse core values, it nurtures independent learners equipped to shape their futures. Beyond academic excellence, EtonCore builds vital life skills essential for higher education and meaningful careers. Students emerge as self-aware, socially conscious global citizens with strengthened personal agency and a resilient growth mindset.

Our structured Lifeskills programme complements this by supporting emotional and mental wellbeing while equipping students with essential tools to navigate life confidently. Led by experienced teachers and industry guest speakers, sessions cover critical topics including financial literacy, time management, study skills, university preparation, wellbeing, and interpersonal relationships—practical life lessons that enable students to thrive in school and beyond. As students approach adulthood, maintaining a healthy balance between academic achievement and personal development becomes increasingly vital for their overall wellbeing and future success.

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Our student-centred university and careers guidance programme offers personalised support that puts the student firmly at the forefront of the decision-making process. Experienced teachers conduct workshops, talks, and discussions to support Year 12 and 13 students and their families with decision-making, advising on course requirements, and guiding university research.

Our team works closely with each student to create a balanced university list, assist with personal statements and essays, and prepare for interviews. With guidance and support, students are encouraged to take ownership of their research and planning process to find their best-fit institution or career pathway.

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