About the IGCSE
TASIS Portugal’s IGCSE vision
We strive to ensure all students are fully motivated and cared for during the IGCSE process. Although each course ends in a summative exam, we prepare students with the mindset of further academic study. Our focus is a curriculum that challenges, empowers, and engages our students.
Academic enrichment classes continue through high school, as do a range of elective options to boost and support academic achievement while providing creative outlets. Additionally, students learn and practice research skills, public speaking, leadership, arts, service, and competitive sports. The IGCSE does not define our students as individuals, nor does it define us as a school. Instead, it is another opportunity to develop our students’ push for discovery and excellence.
What is the IGCSE?
The Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) has evolved into the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16-year-olds. This curriculum offers students a variety of options in preparation for the International Baccalaureate (IB) and colleges and universities around the world.
The IGCSEs have come a long way from the original GCSEs, which are still common across the UK. It is a curriculum acknowledged and respected by universities globally. IGCSEs are trusted by universities to provide both the academic challenge and external assessments. IGCSEs are trusted by teachers to ensure students are receiving a time-tested preparation for further study and are trusted by parents for the global perspective in many subject areas.
The IGCSE begins in 9th Grade and ends in the spring of 10th Grade with several examinations (although students can take some earlier and opt out of others). Coursework components make up a substantial proportion of the final grading system; exams are just one component of IGCSEs at TASIS Portugal.
TASIS students are required to take courses in mathematics, English, sciences, and history. They will then build their learning journey from various IGSCE options and TASIS Portugal offerings.
We at TASIS Portugal know the IGSCEs will be familiar to some and alien to others. The booklet linked below aims to familiarize everyone, allowing students and their families to make informed decisions. As a school, we ensure the process is as smooth and well planned as it deserves to be. We guide students through this exciting period of their education.
Download the IGCSE Parent Guide
Why the IGCSE?
Portuguese ministry of education policy requires that students complete formal assessments at the end of 10th Grade. The IGCSE provides the most rigorous and adaptable option to bridge the highly articulated Core Knowledge and Singapore Math curricula used in the elementary and middle school and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). We intentionally designed the course offerings to help our students reach their potential while preparing them for the challenges of the IB.