No More Moving Grades

Hours of thought and discussion have gone into the radical decision to scrap A-Levels in favour of the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD).

Tollbar principal David Hampson says the IBDs offer a more level playing field for students and reflect the changing economic climate. "It is a gold standard which is maintained irrespective of the number of students or the quality of the cohort," he said.

"With A-Levels there are different criteria between different examining boards. Also the grade boundaries can vary year to year depending on how students have done."

"With IBDs there are no changing grade boundaries and the grades are based on a set criteria."

"When students get their grades they know exactly how well they have done, as will universities and potential employers."

"All the feedback we have got suggests that the IBD prepares students well for university and life."

The school is in the process of applying to the International Baccalaureate Organisation.