The Thistle - An E-Newsletter of Scotch College, Perth, Western Australia

IB Diploma or WACE - How to choose

Scotch College is in the fortuitous position of being able to provide our students with the opportunity to complete the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme as part of their education in Year 11 and 12.

Both the Diploma Programme and the WACE provide students with a selection of challenging and rigorous courses aimed at preparing students for a range of options beyond life at school. The College will provide two separate evenings to provide parents with information on both options and we encourage our families to attend both events.

The best choice is an informed one.

IB Diploma Programme Snapshot

  • Globally 3,176 schools offer the Diploma Programme in 143 countries giving it a truly global presence in education
  • Engages students in a breadth of study in which the study of languages is mandatory
  • Internationally recognised by universities
  • There are currently 57 universities in Australia that recognise the IB, including all universities in Western Australia
  • Study the Theory of Knowledge course in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we claim to know
  • Complete an Extended Essay as part of the Diploma process
  • Educators develop curriculum globally and exams are marked internationally
  • More about process than content

Important changes to WA University entrance

An important change has occurred with both the University of Western Australia and Curtin University now accepting IB Diploma students without converting their IB score to an ATAR. This makes entry to courses easier for our IB students.

The College would encourage parents to attend the IB Parent Information evening on Wednesday 22 March at 6.30pm in the Dickinson Centre to learn more.

WACE Snapshot

  • Administered by the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, which is based in Western Australia
  • Offers ATAR and General courses that cater for university Entrance and Vocational Pathways
  • A well recognised university entry credential
  • Opportunity to specialise considerably
  • Opportunity to discontinue a subject in Year 12
  • Within the WACE framework students can take the VET (Vocational Education and Training) pathway
  • Has reasonable currency internationally

The College would encourage parents to come to the WACE Parent Information Evening on Monday 27 March at 6.30pm in the Dickinson Centre to learn more.

Mr Peter Allen
 Director of Teaching and Learning