Launch of IB Career-related Programme
In 2023, we introduced a unique business-focused pathway for students aged 16–18, presenting an alternative to the International Baccalaureate’s (IB) Diploma Programme (DP).
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our forward-thinking IB Career-related Programme (CP) at ACS Egham. In 2023, we introduced a unique business-focused pathway for students aged 16–18, presenting an alternative to the International Baccalaureate’s (IB) Diploma Programme (DP). Our primary goal is to empower students with a competitive advantage in the workplace, by developing the knowledge and interpersonal skills most desired by employers.
Our new CP Programme allows students to embark on a journey with a specialised focus on Business, Enterprise, and Entrepreneurship, combining career-related and academic studies to maximise students’ future potential. The further education course will enable students to learn about business directly from industry professionals, from management consultancies and accountancy firms to renowned corporations.
Our new business-focused offering is an exciting addition to the study options available to our Grade 11 and 12 students. We aim to create authentic learning experiences that enable our students to become the next global thinkers and doers, which is exactly the impact that studying the CP has on learners. The CP keeps students’ future options open – after completing the course, students have the option to not only continue their studies at university, but to also apply for a high-level apprenticeship or even start their own business after school.
As part of this comprehensive course, students are working towards a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma alongside two IB Diploma Programme academic subjects. They are also engaging in a British Sign Language course, fostering communication skills with a diverse range of people. The programme goes beyond academic knowledge, emphasizing the development of personal and professional skills essential for the workplace, including crafting CVs, mastering interviews, and exploring the ethical dimensions of business. Real-life work experience is facilitated through internship opportunities.
Embarking on these real-world experiences, our students have been actively collaborating with the Admissions, Marketing, and Partnership departments at ACS Egham. Not only shadowing professionals; they had direct input in a live admissions tour, engaged in stakeholder meetings, and provided a fresh perspective on ACS literature, gaining valuable insights. Further experiences include the exclusive invitation to participate in the “Night at the West End” theatrical event at G Live in Guildford, where students engaged with the public, teachers, and children whilst supporting the ACS Partnerships team.
Besides the many advantages that the CP brings for preparing students for the future workforce, many world leading universities, such as Russell Group institutions, including the University of Cambridge, acknowledge the benefits of the CP in their application process.
I have really enjoyed meeting entrepreneurs while studying the CP, as most of them have reassured us that making mistakes in business is very normal. I have also found the Sign Language course interesting as it enables me to communicate with people in different ways. I now understand the real importance of communication which is embedded into our IB learner profile and the way that we learn in the CP.
We are incredibly grateful for the support that we have received from local businesses and our parent community. Their invaluable assistance has played a pivotal role in assisting events that empower our students to enhance their conversational skills and share their knowledge and experiences first-hand.
