The increasing popularity of the International Baccalaureat (IB) diploma can be attested from this year’s results which come out this month, with over 119,000 students across the world receiving their diplomas or results, an increase of over 8,000 from 2011.

On average, diploma students scored 29.83, with 109 achieving the maximum score of 45 points.

St Edward’s College, Cottonera, launched the two-year IB diploma programme for 16 to 18-year-olds three years ago.

“It is a passport to the University of Malta and to a host of universities overseas, including those at the top of the league,” said St Edward’s College headmaster George Psaila.

“Such international recognition opens many doors to students who would like to pursue their studies abroad,” he added.

The IB diploma is recognised as an entry qualification by the University of Malta as long as students obtain 28 points (or higher) out of the maximum 45, together with a pass mark in each of their choice and compulsory subjects.

The programme is holistic, multicultural and interdisciplinary, and students’ performance is not merely pinned on marks obtained in the final examinations. They are motivated to put their thinking caps on and stand up and be counted. It also encourages them to give a helping hand in the community.

St Edward’s students’ pass rate compares favourably with the international average, which stood at 78.16 per cent for 2012, and remained stable over the past five years.

Registration for 2012/3 is currently open. To contact Mr Psaila e-mail hm@stedwards.edu.mt.