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.

This month, we have received more exciting news that 2 of our students have achieved the Highest Mark in China for 1 of their subject.

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 the GCSE Psychology in the May/June 2024 Pearson Edexcel exam series. She also received the Outstanding Pearson Edexcel Learner Award.

They have been invited to the Cambridge and Pearson award ceremonies respectively which celebrates the exceptional achievements of outstanding students from across China. Parents and teachers of the award winners are also invited to this special occasion to thank them for their ongoing support. 

Please see an interview below which offer some of their study tips and insights into the remarkable journeys they have embarked upon.

Freya Teo IGCSE 10A*/A

Freya joined BSB in Year 10. She acheived the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards for achieving the Highest Mark in China for IGCSE Business Studies.

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 and why?

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 trip, 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

Isabella Li 8 A*/A