STUDENTS at Cleveland District State High School have taken a giant step towards gaining entry into university after completing the International Baccalaureate program.
A total of 34 students finished the course and gained a diploma, which is recognised around the world at universities like Harvard and Oxford.
Program coordinator and deputy principal Karen Abraham said the IB curriculum was of a high standard and universities offered credits, exemptions and scholarships to students who gained a diploma.
"Our grade 12 students have to present a 4000 word essay on a topic of their choice as an extra on top of their six subjects," she said.
"They are mentored through that over about a five month period but when they hit uni and have to do their first undergrad assignment, they have the experience
"It is not just getting you to uni but I think it is preparing you for success once you are there."
Ms Abraham said about 10 per cent of the cohort would participate in the program, which is completed in grades 11 and 12.
She said the school also offered students in grade 10 the opportunity to participate in a foundation year.
The curriculum is organised by an IB office in Singapore.
Students study six subjects across a range of disciplines, including a second language, and write an extended essay.
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