Launching Pads to Top Universities: How SISD Prepares Students for Success

SISD does not just provide children with the opportunity to acquire knowledge; we also focus on equipping our students with not only the correct tools but also the mindset to thrive in the demanding world of higher education. From their early years to graduation, we at SISD meticulously try to cultivate a foundation for university success through a blend of academic rigor, holistic understanding and development, and a global curriculum.

The IB Curriculum

International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is recognised worldwide by universities, and is renowned for its focus on critical thinking, independent learning, and interdisciplinary skillsets. This leads to students who are not just adept at remembering facts, but also at analysing information, forming strong arguments, and applying knowledge across various subjects to the best of their ability.

The curriculum itself is structured perfectly for university preparation making the transition easier and less daunting than it might be for those unused to applying other skills. The Middle Years Programme in Grades 6-10 emphasises research skills and project-based learning, which are all crucial in university study and life. Gradually, students transition to the rigorous Diploma Programme in Grades 11-12. Here, they delve deeper into their specific chosen subjects while tackling the challenging Theory of Knowledge course, which fosters critical reflection and a global perspective which are again very highly valued traits by top universities.

A Well Rounded Individual

At SISD we know that university success extends beyond academic prowess. Our school is methodical about fostering a holistic development approach that equips students with the social, emotional, and interpersonal skills necessary for succeeding at university and life beyond. Here's how:

• Developing a Global Mindset: SISD's diverse student body and bilingual education nurture an understanding of global perspective and the diversity and nuances of beliefs, thought, philosophies and cultures. Students learn to appreciate different viewpoints and communication styles which is an amazing asset in today's world.
• Building Independence: The IB program encourages student autonomy, not providing them with all of the knowledge required to complete a task or understand a subject matter, leading them to inform themselves in their education journey. We foster this through encouraging foci on individual project work, research tasks, and presentations. Our students develop key time management, organisation, and self-confidence, all of which are essential for navigating the predominantly independent learning environment of university.
• A Strong Work Ethic: SISD's demanding curriculum also helps build a strong work ethic in students. They learn to persevere through challenges, meet deadlines, and manage their workload effectively and efficiently helping our students perform well in the competitive environment of university.
• Confidence and Communication: Regular presentations, discussions, and collaborative projects hone students' communication and public speaking abilities. SISD also provides opportunities for student leadership roles, further boosting confidence and fostering the ability to articulate ideas effectively.
• Promoting Wellbeing: SISD recognises the importance of not only physical, but also mental wellbeing. We provide a supportive environment with counsellors, after-school activities, and a strong focus on both social and emotional learning, ensuring students are very well equipped to handle the pressures life after secondary school.

A Dedicated Support System

Our school has total commitment to student success and we ensure this extends beyond just the curriculum and school environment. The school offers a dedicated college counselling team that provides comprehensive support throughout the university application process. Please see how we ensure this below:

• Early Guidance: Starting in Grade 9, counsellors begin to guide students in exploring university options and identifying potential career paths which they might wish to pursue. The counselling team assist with research, understanding entry requirements, and setting realistic goals along the way and help keep the children on the road to achieving their post SISD dream.
• Personalised Support: The counsellors work closely with each student to identify each child’s individual strengths, interests, and academic achievements. This highly  personal approach ensures each and every student receives tailored guidance for applications and university selection.
• Application Assistance: The counselling team also assists the students with each individual stage of application process, including help with their essay writing, any reference letters required, and standardised testing preparation. This support ensures each application showcases the student's unique strengths and accomplishments and lets each student the opportunity to shine to the best of their ability.

The Proof is in the Pudding

Our meticulous and well rounded approach to university preparation yields impressive results which speak for themselves. A significant percentage of graduates gain admission to the most prestigious universities globally, including the likes of Oxford, Cambridge, and many Ivy League schools in the US. We are proud of these results and is testament to the quality of education we deliver, the effectiveness of the IB program, and the dedication of the school's faculty, staff and most importantly the students themselves.

Investing in their Future

Choosing a school that has a real focus on university preparation is a long term investment in your child's future. SISD offers a comprehensive approach that goes beyond academics, shaping rounded and worldly individuals who are intellectually curious, globally aware, and totally equipped to succeed in the environment of higher education. We empower our students to not just gain admission to their dream universities, but also to thrive in their academic and professional endeavours.

SISD is proudly part of the Nord Anglia Education family.