BSB Students achieved Highest IGCSE Mark in China 2024

BSB Shunyi has proudly announced our Year 11 cohort’s exceptional 2024 IGCSE results earlier in September.

We have received more exciting news that 2 of our students have achieved the Highest Mark in China.

Freya has achieved the Highest Mark in China for IGCSE Business Studies in the May/June 2024 Cambridge Edexcel exam series. She also received the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award.

Lily has achieved the Highest Mark in China for GCSE Psychology in the May/June 2024 Pearson Edexcel exam series. She also received the Outstanding Pearson Edexcel Learner Award.

Please see interviews with some of our top students below which offer some study tips and insights of their remarkable learning journeys.

Freya Teo IGCSE 10A*/A

Freya joined BSB in Year 10. She acheived the Highest Mark in China for IGCSE Business Studies for the June 2024 Cambridge examinations. Please see photos of Freya receving the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards at the Cambridge award ceremony on 23rd November, 2024.

1.What I/GCSE subjects did you take?

I took English language and literature, Additional Math, Coordinated sciences, Economics, Psychology, Business Studies, Chinese B, and global perspectives.

2.What’s your advice for current Year 11 students on how to prepare for their exams.

To prepare for the IGCSE, Year 11 students should familiarize themselves with the syllabus for each subject and focus on the key topics and assessment objectives. After building a solid foundation with the content knowledge, they should practice more past exam papers to get accustomed to the format and types of questions. Most questions are repetitive or phrased in a different manner so practice will really increase your exposure to exam questions. The IGCSE exams are stretched over a long period of time so taking breaks and staying healthy is also crucial to avoid burnout. For me, I continued playing volleyball and going rock climbing because it helps me relieve stress, thus giving me more motivation to study.

3.What is your favourite subject?

My favourite subject is biology because it explores the intricate working of living organisms ranging from the smallest cells to complex ecosystems. The topics covered in IGCSE really intrigued me, so I looked forward to every biology class.

4. Are there any teachers in particular who’ve helped you along the way?

All of my teachers were really helpful, and they provided me with a lot of help along the way. Chemistry and math were my weaker subjects, and Ms Qian Zhang and Mr Lupe always offered help, which I am extremely grateful for. Mr Allen and Mr Hayward also encouraged me constantly because I am not confident for English, and so I am thankful for the endless support that I received and the warmth that surrounded me. Ms. Valentina and Mr. Goh were always available when I needed them for anything, often reassuring me that I would do well, which boosted my confidence greatly. I believe that although effort in studying is indeed one part of the equation, the results could not have been achieved without the caring energy that I was surrounded with, which propelled me forward and kept me happy even during the exam cycle.

5.What IBDP subjects are you studying now?

I am currently studying Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics A&A at a higher level while my standard level subjects are English Language and Literature, Chinese B, and Psychology.

6. Please list some of the school activities you’ve enjoyed

I enjoyed the U19 volleyball team and Tanzania Service Project.

7.What are 2 of your best memories at BSB?

One of my most memorable memories at BSB is during the residential trip to YangShuo, because I was able to engage in activities that I have interest in such as rock climbing and outdoor camping, whilst being able to spend time with my friends. Another unforgettable experience was the Tanzania Service Project, because it offered me a once in a lifetime experience and allowed me to take a break from studies. I also met many wonderful people, and the trip taught me to be grateful for everything around me.

8.Do you know which University you’re going to and what you want to study?

I am aiming to enter the National University of Singapore and I plan to study something related to science, such as Medicine. The school is very competitive and difficult to get in, so it also acts as a form of motivation to study harder. As they say: “Aim for the moon, if you miss, you may hit a star”.

Top left-Freya in U19 Volleyball Varsity; The other 3 photos taken when Freya was in Tanzania Service Project

Lily Kim 10 A*/A

Lily joined BSB in Year 7 and achieved 10 A*/A in her IGCSE. She acheived the Outstanding Pearson Learner Awards for achieving the Highest Mark in China for GCSE Psychology.

1. What I/GCSE subjects did you take?

I took English Literature, English Language, Korean, Global Perspectives, Coordinated Science, Extended Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Psychology, Economics, and Business Management.

2. What’s your advice for current Year 11 students on how to prepare for their exams?

The key distinction in my approach was setting sophisticated and detailed goals. I aimed to achieve A* grades in all subjects, and I even set specific percentage targets for each exam paper. I visualized myself opening my results and seeing A* across the board. While this might seem ineffective, it served as a powerful motivator that kept me going during exhaustive study sessions and prevented burnout.

Secondly, having a study partner can be incredibly motivating and beneficial. For me, that person was Freya; I learned so much from her. I always thought sleeping was waste of time, but she taught me the importance of mental health and productivity. This experience made me realize that a study buddy isn’t just someone to share notes with—they’re a source of inspiration and strength.

3. What is your favourite subject?

My favourite subject is Economics because it is deeply rooted in our daily lives. Studying economics has completely changed the way I view the contemporary world. I believe that it's essential for young people to understand how the world functions through systematic structures. Moreover, economics equips us with the tools to make better decisions in our daily economic activities.

4. Are there any teachers in particular who’ve helped you along the way?

Yes, my Business Management teachers, Ms. Elva and Mr. Goh, were very helpful throughout my IGCSE journey. As a newcomer to Business Management, I initially struggled with understanding the content and becoming proficient in exam taking. I was often disappointed when my grades didn’t meet my expectations, but my teachers encouraged me to persevere rather than give up. Their unwavering support and guidance were crucial in helping me overcome the challenges I faced. However, I want to emphasize my gratefulness to all my teachers who consistently provided excellent teaching quality and care.

5. What IBDP subjects are you studying now?

I’m currently studying:

- Higher Level: Mathematics AA, Economics, Biology

- Standard Level: English A, Business Management, Mandarin B

6. Please list some of the school activities you’ve enjoyed

I’m currently an executive member of the MUN club. During my IGCSE years, we organized MUN CCA sessions for younger students in both primary and secondary schools, as well as conference trips. These activities provided me with a sweet break from rigorous academic studies and allowed me to engage in something I’m truly passionate about. Through these experiences, I developed communication strategies and gained practical knowledge that I couldn’t have acquired solely through academic study.

7. What are two of your best memories at BSB?

One of my best memories was the expedition we undertook for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Despite the physical exhaustion from hiking through mountains with heavy backpacks, it was a valuable experience that pushed my physical and mental limits. I’ll never forget the sight of the stars scattered across the night sky. This experience not only built my resilience but also strengthened our year group’s bond.

Another fond memory is my participation in MUN conferences and the NAE-UNICEF Summit in New York. I loved every aspect of them, from preparation to the final ceremony. Over the last two years, I participated in several conferences, and they were all amazing. The thrill of standing at the podium and responding to challenging questions from fellow delegates is something I’ll never forget.

8. Do you know which university you’re going to and what you want to study?

My dream is to attend the National University of Singapore (NUS), where I hope to study Economics & Data Science. NUS is renowned for its high-quality courses, and my experience attending a summer camp there consolidated my interest. During my visit, I explored my major courses and was impressed by the facilities. Conversations with NUS professors, who were all passionate and eager to share their knowledge, inspired me even more. This experience has fueled my strong desire to attend NUS.

Top Left - Lily speaking at the NAE-UNICEF Summit in New York; Top right - Lily with NAE CEO Mr. Fitzmaurice and NAE students at the NAE-UNICEF Summit; Bottom left - Lily in the U19 Volleyball JV Team

Ayisa Yao IGCSE 8 A*/A

Ayisa has been studying at BSB Shunyi for 11 years since Year 1.  

1.What IGCSE subjects did you take?

My IGCSE subjects were English language and literature, Additional Math, Coordinated sciences, Economics, Psychology, Drama, Chinese, and global perspectives

2.What’s your advice for current Year 11 students on how to prepare for their exams.

My advice on preparing for the exam would be to go through and summarise all the context, and practice. Everyone has different study techniques, as for me, I’m not exactly an early starter. My revision only started at spring break, this would really be based on personal preference. However, IGCSE exams are relatively more text book based, so I would advise current Y11 students to really grind through the text books, especially for subjects like science, psychology. Many subjects tend to have repetitive questions every year such as math, science, and economics, so doing practice questions will enhance your memory on the context. In the exam, you might meet similar questions phrased differently.

3.What is your favourite subject?

 My favourite subject is English, as it creates for you a sanction and space where you can let your ideas and interpretations take over. (Although you should really focus on the text and context in the exam) In the subject class, I can write about my individual thoughts and the abstract concepts I want to deliver.

4.Are there any teachers in particular who’ve helped you along the way?

 My English, math, and psychology teachers were ones of the most supportive teachers I’ve had in IGCSE. Although revision should be initiated by yourself, these teachers helped me with revision tremendously. They would provide class time for us to practice mock tests within the exam time, and often our classes would get more interesting after we finished exam material, so there was a great work-life balance.

5.What IBDP subjects are you studying now?

 I’m currently studying English, Math AA, Economics, Chinese, Chemistry, and film.

6. What are some of the school activities you’ve enjoyed?

I’ve participated in many school productions such as Sarah in “Guys and Dolls” and Wednesday in “The Addams Family Musical” among others. I’ve also participated in the Tanzania Service Project, Chatterbox fundraising and U19 volleyball team.

7.What are 2 of your best memories at BSB?

 2 of my best memories in BSB is participating in the school productions. Surrounded by music growing up, having an environment where all the students who unite because of one passion is a truly wholesome place. Our backstage would always be filled with laughter and excitement. As the production has always been a legacy project in BSB, it’s exciting to be joined by new secondary students every year.

Another memory I would mention is the international award. You can make new memories every year in different places, experience the mountains or rivers.

8.Do you know which University you’re going to and what you want to study?

I want to study an English major either in the UK or Australia, although I’m not sure which University yet.

Top left & Bottom left: Aysia as Sarah in “Guys and Dolls”; Top right: Ayisa in Tanzania Service Project; Bottom right: Ayisa as Wednesay in “The Addams Family Musical”

Isabella Li 8 A*/A

Isabella joined BSB in Year 7.

1. What IGCSE subjects did you take?

I took Additional math, First Language English, Literature in English, First Language Chinese, Coordinated science, Economics, History, Drama and GP.

2.What’s your advice for current Year 11 students on how to prepare for their exams.

It is so important to understand and prioritize what subjects needs a longer period of revision time allocated to it, such as History and Additional math, these are content heavy subjects that will not be able to catch up 2 days before the exam.

3.What is your favourite subject?

Economics! I found analyzing the reasoning behind choices really fascinating.

4.Are there any teachers in particular who’ve helped you along the way?

Mr. Lupe helped me a lot with preparing for additional math, the course was a bit challenging at the start for me, but he was patient and supported me with past paper questions and guide me through it eventually.

5.What IBDP subjects are you studying now?

I’m currently taking Math AA, English A, Economics HL and Physics, Chemistry, Chinese A SL.

6.What are some of the school activities you’ve enjoyed?

I was in the school musical since Y9, I really enjoyed every show I’ve did. I was also in the Tanzania Service Project trip, it’s an experience that I will otherwise never gain for elsewhere and further solidified my thoughts towards my future.

7.What are 2 of your best memories at BSB?

My best memory at BSB would be attending the musical last year as Miss Adelaide in “Guys and Dolls”. It was such a relaxation for me during exam preparation period, the rehearsals helped me a lot to relieve my stresses against IGCSE and met a lot of friends. Another would be finishing my last IGCSE paper and walking out of the amphitheater, it was nothing really special, but it just felt like the start of a new era to me.

8.Do you know which University you’re going to and what you want to study?

I am looking forward to possibly study in the US, yet currently not sure about which University I want to go but I want to study in economic related areas.

Bottom left: Isabella at theTanzania Service Project; The other 3 photos Isabella as Miss Adelaide in “Guys and Dolls” Secondary Production