The International A-Levels programme at EtonHouse International School provides the depth and flexibility that give students even greater opportunities for success, says ROBERT RANDALL, Principal of the Orchard campus. Here, he shares how the school supports students in the programme through to university. Plus, find out about opportunities at EtonHouse for student growth through A-level project work and what you need to know about IB vs A-Levels in Singapore.
Do universities prefer International A-Levels or the IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma programme) for university admissions?
When it comes to IB vs A-Levels, both two-year programmes are academically rigorous and recognised worldwide. They’re also two of Singapore’s most popular pre-university qualifications for international schools.
Universities don’t have a “preferred” qualification. What matters more is that students choose a suitable programme that can help them achieve their fullest potential.
Are there any unique offerings that International A-Levels provide?
They’re equivalent to British A-Levels with content that has a more global theme suited for students in an international context. Students usually choose three or four subjects to study in depth. This is ideal for those with specific subject strengths or who have made up their mind on the degree they want. By specialising earlier, students are also likely to achieve the best outcomes in these subjects.
The A-levels curriculum can be split into two parts, with exams at the end of both years of study. If you’re deciding on IB vs A-Levels in Singapore, this structure is a clear and distinct advantage. Other post-16 programmes of study have terminal examinations which are often seen as ‘high stakes’.
With two examination periods in a year, students can retake AS modules to get the best possible grades for university admission. Taken at the end of Year 12, these AS examinations can also be stand-alone qualifications in their own right.
In what ways does EtonHouse supplement the academic rigour of A-Levels?
We created the EtonCore programme to further support and supplement the International A-Level programme. It offers a combination of elective and accredited pathways. Through EtonCore, students can explore their interests while they’re challenged to think beyond subject-based learning outcomes. We believe this is fundamental in helping them prepare for higher education and future career opportunities.
Examples of EtonCore elements include the Duke of Edinburgh Award, researching and producing an essay on a self-selected topic, driving community service projects, collaborating with other overseas schools and participating in partnerships, internships and residential programmes, similar to an A-Level project work.
What support is available for students during their studies?
The aims and objectives of our Sixth Form are designed to prepare students to take responsibility and develop as confident young adults. We support them in managing the increased expectations of universities and employers.
As part of the Personalised Pathway Plan@16, Year 11 students will have discussions with key staff to create their individual course plans and A Level project work.
The structured Lifeskills programme involves sessions led by teachers and guest speakers on study skills, university applications, wellbeing, finances and more.
Our student-centred university and careers guidance programmes provide personalised support and workshops for students and families throughout the university application process.
What are some of the universities that EtonHouse students go to?
Our final year students apply to universities all over the world. These include the UK, the US, Australia, Japan and local universities. Our students have been offered to study degrees such as Medicine, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering and Psychology at the University of Reading, The University of Southampton, The University of Sussex, Brunel University London and The University of Queensland, to name a few.
EtonHouse International School has locations island-wide; the Orchard campus is at 10 Tanglin Road.
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