Queenwood offers students the opportunity to undertake the International Baccalaureate Diploma in Years 11 and 12 as an alternative to the Higher School Certificate. The internationally recognised and prestigious program provides a pathway to higher education worldwide and in keeping with the global focus, incorporates a philosophy of breadth of learning through building knowledge and cultural awareness.

The IB Diploma facilitates geographical and cultural mobility for students who may move countries regularly or who have a desire for a far-reaching education that builds on the ideals of the responsibility of global citizenship. As it is an international diploma, students are assessed on a worldwide stage.

The IB is highly regarded by universities for the calibre of graduates with tertiary institutions increasingly recognising the high standards of IB students with many offering places based on pre-examination assessment.

Queenwood was one of the first schools in Sydney to introduce the IB Diploma as an alternative path to matriculation and since its introduction in 2001, the growing numbers of students choosing the IB option and their outstanding academic results, suggest its suitability for certain students. It is a rigorous program of learning, suited to students who are self-motivated and have a strong work ethic.

The International Baccalaureate encompasses a wide range of subjects and offers individual freedom for students to pursue in depth, areas of personal interest.

The IB Diploma requires students take six subjects - three at a standard level and three at higher level as well as completing the three compulsory components - Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and CAS (Creativity, Action and Service).

Core subjects are listed with choices within each group as follows:
Language A - English Literature
Language B - French, German, Japanese, Spanish for Beginners
Individuals and Societies - Economics, History, Psychology
Experimental Sciences - Biology, Chemistry, Physics
Mathematics
Electives - Visual Arts, Music or a second subject from Individuals and Societies or Experimental Sciences

The other components of the IB Diploma include:
Theory of Knowledge - examining the nature of knowledge, analysis of ideas and appreciation of other cultural perspectives.

The Extended Essay - Students conduct in depth research on a topic of their own choice and develop research, writing and presentation skills to equip them for university level work.

Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) - This component focuses on self-development of students through performing arts, sport and community service. The emphasis is on building their own talents while devoting time, energy and commitment to helping others in society and broadening their horizons.

Dedicated information evenings on the International Baccalaureate are held at Queenwood with information kits available through the School Registrar. For further information on the International Baccalaureate please contact the school.