The Pre-IB Programme at St Clare’s, Oxford offers motivated young learners a unique opportunity to build the academic foundations, confidence, and international mindset needed to thrive in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). With dedicated IB teachers, small class sizes, and a nurturing residential setting, it is designed to help students flourish both academically and personally.
Nurturing Confidence and Independence
According to Lewis, Pre-IB Coordinator, the programme’s strength lies in how it supports student growth, particularly the:
“The control of the subjects”
— Lewis, Pre-IB Staff
He adds that pastoral support is key to student success, especially the:
“Relationship with teachers and the house parents”
— Lewis, Pre-IB Staff
Lewis also highlights that the programme’s structure is important in preparing students for the IB, in particular:
“The range [of] subjects, [students] get to use facilities with the others.”
— Lewis, Pre-IB Staff
This blend of academic choice and community integration allows students to explore interests, become familiar with IB-style learning, and adjust to life away from home.
Why Students Choose Pre-IB at St Clare’s
Students join St Clare’s for many reasons: to immerse themselves in an international environment, strengthen their academic skills, or prepare for future study pathways.
Maria, who joined the Pre-IB programme for one term, explains:
“I chose to take the Pre-IB course when I decided I wanted to experience an international experience… I could guarantee an exchange of knowledge, a taste of what the IB feels like, and [experience] academic situations I wouldn’t experience in my country.”
For Carl, the programme offered the right timing and preparation:
“Because I’m not old enough to do IB.”
Dora saw the programme as a strategic step toward academic success:
“I want to prepare myself for the IB Diploma Programme… I know the IB requires strong academic skills, good time management, and an international mindset.”
Meanwhile, Matheus joined to explore his future options:
“I decided to do the Pre-IB because I want to see if I prefer to continue and do the whole IB or finish school in Brazil… and apply for universities.”
Building Essential Skills for the Future
While academic preparation is central, students emphasise personal development and lifelong skills.
Maria shares:
“I want to grow as a person… improve my academic writing and critical thinking… get better at time management and working with people from different countries.”
Carl adds a language-building goal:
“Speaking more freely in English.”
For Dora, the focus is academic readiness:
“I want to develop my critical thinking, communication and research skills.”
Matheus echoes these ambitions:
“Communication skills, research skills, self-management skills and thinking skills.”
Life Beyond the Classroom
A vibrant activity programme at St Clare’s ensures students experience the full richness of boarding school life while preparing for CAS in the IB.
Maria reflects positively:
“I’ve participated in sports activities in the CAS programmes… they were fun.”
Carl discovered a new interest:
“Yes, I have taken part in tennis and it was a good experience.”
Dora embraced both arts and sports:
“I have participated in school activities, including tennis, football and visual art… it allowed me to work as part of a team, and balance academics with creativity and physical activity.”
Matheus explored multiple interests:
“I’m doing football, boxing and marketing CAS and it was a nice and interesting experience.”
A Gateway to Global Success
The reflections from staff and students highlight what sets the Pre-IB at St Clare’s apart; a balance of academic challenge, pastoral support, and rich cultural experience. The programme helps students discover their strengths, build independence, and become confident learners ready for the demands of the IB Diploma and beyond.
As the students’ feedback shows, St Clare’s provides not only an academic foundation, but also a life-changing experience of personal growth, international friendships, and self-discovery; all within a supportive college community.
Written by Luis – PIB26 student