TWO TEACHING PATHS
From 9th Grade
At Colégio João Paulo II, at the end of the 8th grade, each student will be able to choose the academic path that best suits their aspirations and goals: continue at Colégio João Paulo II, following the Official Portuguese Curriculum — the natural continuation of the national path —, or enter João Paulo II International School, opting for the International Curriculum — entirely taught in English and based on globally recognized structures and methodologies.
The international program is developed in a dedicated area of the Dume Campus, equipped with rooms dedicated exclusively to international education and access to excellent infrastructure, including laboratories, art rooms, a multi-sport court, and a cafeteria. All courses are taught in English, ensuring full immersion in the language and culture and enhancing linguistic, communication, and intercultural skills essential for a global academic and professional path.
Stages of the International Curriculum:
- 9th and 10th Grades: Cambridge IGCSE – focuses on developing sound knowledge, critical thinking and essential skills across a range of curriculum areas.
- 11th and 12th Grades: International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma) – a demanding, internationally recognized program that prepares students for university and professional challenges, promoting autonomy, responsibility and a global vision.
By choosing this path, each student builds a solid foundation for their academic and personal growth, integrating the educational quality of Colégio João Paulo II with the multicultural openness and international reach of the international curriculum.
9th and 10th Grades
IGCSE in Braga
The Cambridge IGCSE is internationally recognized as one of the best academic preparations for students aged 14 to 16. This program combines academic rigor, flexibility, and global relevance, providing students with a solid foundation for the future while maintaining a connection to the local context.
Mandatory Subjects:
- English
- English Literature (for native speakers)
- Portuguese (mother tongue or foreign language)
- Mathematics
- Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics – Double or Triple Award)
- Physical Education
Optional Subjects:
Art & Design, Design & Technology, Drama, Music, Business Studies, Computer Science, Geography, History, Spanish, French, Physical Education (exam), and Global Perspectives.
Assessment:
Student performance is evaluated through Cambridge International or Pearson Edexcel external examinations at the end of 10th grade, ensuring international standards of excellence.
Benefits of the IGCSE:
- Develops essential academic skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving
- Promotes autonomy, organization, and time management
- Provides a strong foundation for the IB Diploma and access to top universities in Portugal and abroad
11th and 12th
IB Diploma in Braga
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a leading international curriculum, recognized as one of the most comprehensive and challenging secondary education programs in the world. Designed for students aged 16 to 19, it prepares them for admission to the most prestigious universities and for a global future.
IB Learner Profile:
Inquirer: Naturally curious, enjoys asking questions, researching, and learning independently.
Knowledgeable: Eager to learn about new concepts and develop broad knowledge across various subjects. Cooperates effectively with peers and members of the educational community.
Thinker: Thinks critically and creatively, enjoys tackling complex problems, and makes informed, ethical decisions.
Communicator: Confidently and creatively expresses ideas in more than one language, using different forms of communication. Collaborates well with others.
Principled: Acts with integrity and honesty, with respect and a strong sense of fairness. Takes responsibility for personal actions and their consequences.
Open-Minded: Understands and respects the views, cultures, values, and traditions of others. Appreciates different perspectives and learns from diverse experiences.
Caring: Shows empathy, compassion, and respect for the feelings and needs of others. Committed to helping others, the community, and the environment.
Risk-Taker: Approaches new and unfamiliar situations with courage and enjoys exploring new challenges, ideas, and methodologies.
Balanced: Understands the importance of intellectual, emotional, and physical balance to achieve personal well-being and the well-being of others.
Reflective: Thinks thoughtfully about personal learning experiences, evaluating strengths and limitations to guide personal development.
EstruturProgramme Structure – 6 Subject Groups:
- Language and Literature
- Language Acquisition
- Mathematics
- Sciences
- Individuals and Societies
- Arts
Core Components:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Develops critical thinking and reflective skills about different ways of knowing.
- Extended Essay (EE): Independent research project that prepares students for university-level academic work.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Practical experiences that promote personal development, social responsibility, and leadership skills.
Advantages and Benefits of the IB Diploma
1. Global Recognition and Access to Top Universities
The IB Diploma is accepted by leading universities worldwide, including:
- United Kingdom: Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, London School of Economics
- United States: Harvard, Yale, MIT, Stanford, Columbia;
- Continental Europe: Sorbonne (France), ETH Zurich (Switzerland), University of Amsterdam (Netherlands)
- Portugal: University of Lisbon, University of Porto, Catholic University of Portugal
2. Advanced Academic Preparation
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Independent research and methodological rigor
- Clear, structured, and persuasive communication
3. Personal and Social Development
- Autonomy, responsibility, and leadership
- Participation in social, cultural, and sports projects
- Time management, organization, and resilience
4. Multicultural and Global Experience
- Interaction with peers from different countries
- International mindset and adaptability
- Preparation for challenges in a globalized world
5. Academic Flexibility and Bilingual Diploma
- Choice of subjects aligned with personal interests and university goals
- Possibility to earn a bilingual diploma
- Direct link to university and professional experiences
6. International Opportunities
- Exchange programs, internships, and volunteering
- Access to scholarships and international academic competitions
- Preparation for success in global universities and careers
The IB Diploma in Braga provides students with a rigorous, comprehensive, and distinctive education that opens doors in Portugal and around the world, preparing each young person for the challenges of the 21st century.
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