Everything you need to know about IGCSE

Hey parents and students, if you are reading this blog post then chances are that as a parent you have enrolled/want to enrol your child into an IGCSE school and you would like to understand the curriculum, or as a student, you want to find out what is different about this curriculum and what advantages it gives to you. Well, in this post we are going to delve into all you need to know about IGCSE.

What is IGCSE?

IGCSE stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education. It is the international equivalent of the General Certificate of Secondary Education that is used by schools in the United Kingdom. This international qualification was adapted by Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) in 1985 for students studying outside the UK. It is now a popular international qualification for students aged 14-16.

Almost all the private schools in Botswana offer the IGCSE curriculum. IGCSE offers over 70 subjects, and the syllabus has both international and local elements. Each school offers its own selection of subjects according to the demand for the subject. There has been no school in Botswana that is able to offer all 70 of them, however, each school offers at least 15-20 subjects that students can pick from.

Gaborone International School offers 16 subjects that are offered in specific combinations. A student can only pick 8 subjects out of these 16.

The 16 IGCSE subjects offered at GIS are:

· Mathematics,

· English,

· Biology,

· ICT,

· Computer Science,

· History,

· Physics,

· Business Studies,

· Chemistry,

· Accounting,

· Travel and Tourism,

· Setswana,

· French,

· Literature,

· Geography, and

· Economics.

Schools normally have subjects that are compulsory like Math, English and Biology and the rest can be selected freely. These compulsory subjects give students basic skills that underpin courses that will be taken at the tertiary level. The IGCSE assessment is conducted at the end of the course. Assessments include written oral, coursework, and practical assessment. This way, students are given the chance to exhibit their learning abilities.

Difference Between Core and Extension Curriculum

There is an option between Core and Extension curriculum papers in various subjects to allow students with different learning abilities to pursue a challenging subject. The Core curriculum is within the range of abilities of most students as it provides a comprehensive overview of the subject and is intended for students with grades ranging from C to G.

The Extended curriculum is intended for students who are more academically capable than the vast majority. The grades of these students range from A* to E. Under the guidance of the subject teacher, students choose between core and extended. The IGCSE examinations are held thrice a year in February/March, May/June and October/November. Students sit for examinations in international schools or at private examination centres.

Most schools opt to write exams in October, and this gives students enough time to prepare but exams can be written in February or May depending on the school’s ability. The results for exams written in February are released in May, those written in May are released in August that year and results for exams written in October are released in January the following year. Each subject is graded from A* to G, with A* being the highest grade, however the highest grade for Core curriculum papers is a C.

There are many reasons why your child should study IGCSE.

· Firstly, The IGCSE curriculum is designed to give students a strong foundation in the core subjects essential for higher education and beyond. Rather than simply focusing on theoretical knowledge, the IGCSE curriculum encourages students to think critically, solve problems, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations. This approach helps students develop a range of skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.

· Secondly, IGCSE is widely recognized as a high-quality qualification that universities and employers around the world accept. This makes it an ideal choice for students who are planning to study abroad or who are interested in pursuing an international career.

· Lastly, IGCSE offers flexibility and choice. The IGCSE curriculum has many subject options that allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and strengths. This makes it ideal for students looking for personalized learning and tailored education.

In a nutshell, the IGCSE curriculum is globally recognized and a great choice for students who are looking to study abroad after IGCSE. Tertiary education as well as colleges overseas mostly accept IGCSE qualifications. That’s it, all you need to know about IGCSE.

GIS is a great choice for students who are interested in an IGCSE school. The school offers a wide range of subjects and has a strong reputation for academic excellence. For more information on why you should choose GIS.

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How School Clubs Foster Personal Growth – The Debate Club

By Matshidiso Kokorwe • June 12, 2025

At GIS, learning goes beyond textbooks—it shapes the whole child. Clubs and co-curricular activities play a vital role in developing confident, curious, and capable students. Few are as transformative as the Debate Club, which equips learners with essential life skills while offering a space for personal growth and discovery. Debate Club gives students powerful exposure to diverse perspectives. Whether working with peers across year groups or engaging with students from other schools, these moments build empathy, adaptability, and communication skills—qualities that serve them long after school. But debate is about more than arguing opposing views. It’s a rigorous yet supportive environment where students learn to think on their feet, research thoroughly, and communicate with clarity. For many, it begins with hesitation. That’s why our club introduces new members through informal discussions and mock debates. These non-competitive sessions provide a safe space to learn structure, build confidence, and grow at their own pace. The first real test came at Maru-a-Pula School. Though they didn’t win, the experience was formative. Students learned how to source information properly, evaluate claims critically, and present arguments grounded in logic and evidence. They also strengthened their media literacy—developing the discernment to separate fact from misinformation in today’s digital world. These habits extend beyond debating. In the classroom and beyond, students become more intentional, articulate, and resilient. They learn to present clearly, listen actively, and stay composed under pressure. This confidence isn’t built overnight—but the Debate Club lays the foundation. Importantly, they also learned to lose well. Just a week after their initial loss, the team competed again—this time at Westwood International School. The challenge: present a business proposal to a panel of judges. Drawing on everything they had learned, the team walked away with a well-deserved win: Best Speaker in the Business Pitch category, and 1st Place overall . But more valuable than the trophy was what the moment represented—growth, teamwork, and resilience in action. What Our Debaters Say “Debate at GIS is about more than just public speaking,” says Nicole Cole, a Form 3 learner. “It helps you become more confident, informed, and ready to lead. Whether you're debating in class or on stage, you learn to think critically, express ideas clearly, and listen respectfully. It’s an experience that stays with you.” Club captain and Best Speaker winner Neelo Tshimologo, also in Form 3, shares: “I didn’t start debate with confidence. It built over time—through mistakes, learning, and just showing up. Now, I speak in class without overthinking. I contribute in group work. I work better with people, even adults. Debate taught me to listen properly, not just wait to speak. That’s helped in real life too. Even my writing improved. I now build strong arguments, use evidence correctly, and my teachers have noticed the difference—especially in English and History. Honestly, debate didn’t just teach me how to argue—it helped me communicate, stay calm, and show up with confidence, even when I felt unsure.” Thanks to the support of highly qualified staff and the commitment of students, Debate Club continues to grow in numbers and impact. It’s one of many ways GIS enriches learning beyond the classroom—bridging academic content from the Cambridge curriculum with real-world application. As part of the ADvTECH group, GIS students benefit from world-class opportunities in a multicultural, well-resourced environment. Clubs like Debate reflect our commitment to developing confident, articulate leaders—ready to succeed anywhere. Students who step into Debate Club may start unsure—but they leave empowered.

10 Signs Your Child Is Ready for Standard 1

By Lisedi Phuti, Primary School Principal, Gaborone International School • June 12, 2025

Starting Standard 1 is a big leap for young learners. At Gaborone International School, we understand just how significant this transition is, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Over the years, we’ve walked this journey with hundreds of young learners, and while each child is wonderfully unique, there are a few signs we look for that suggest a child is ready to step confidently into Standard 1. While each child develops at their own pace, there are several common signs that suggest your child is ready to take on this exciting new chapter. Here are some helpful indicators: Follows Simple Instructions Your child can listen to and follow 2–3 step directions, such as “Put your shoes away, wash your hands, and come to the table.” Works Independently for Short Periods They can focus on a task like colouring, building, or simple writing for at least 10–15 minutes without constant help. Expresses Needs Clearly Your child can use words to express when they are hungry, need the bathroom, feel upset, or have a question. Plays and Cooperates with Others They can take turns, share, and interact respectfully with other children in a group setting. Manages Basic Self-Care They can handle simple personal tasks like washing hands, packing a bag, or tidying up after an activity. Shows Curiosity and Interest in Learning Your child asks questions about the world, enjoys listening to stories, and shows interest in letters, numbers, or new experiences. Recognizes Some Letters and Numbers While full literacy isn’t expected yet, your child should be familiar with the alphabet and numbers 1–10. Identifies and Regulates Basic Emotions They are learning to name feelings like “sad” or “frustrated” and are beginning to calm themselves with adult guidance. Follows a Routine Your child is used to structured parts of the day like waking up, eating meals, and going to bed at regular times. Feels Comfortable in Group Settings Whether it’s a family gathering, Sunday school, or pre-school class, they can function in environments with multiple children and adults. At GIS, we know that no child needs to “tick every box” to be ready. What matters most is their growing confidence, curiosity, and willingness to learn. Are you unsure or have some questions about your child’s transition into Standard 1? I’d love to meet with you in person, hear more about your child, and help guide you through this important stage. Book a coffee chat with me at GIS — together, we’ll ensure your child’s next step is the right one. I look forward to connecting with you! — Lisedi Phuti, Primary School Principal

What Sets a Cambridge Education Apart

May 28, 2025

Understanding the System, Its Structure, and Global Value When parents consider their child’s future, they naturally want an education that unlocks opportunity and builds confidence. The Cambridge International curriculum does exactly that—offering more than a qualification. It offers aspiration, access, and academic excellence. A Global Standard for Ambitious Learners Cambridge is one of the most recognised and respected international education systems in the world. Offered in over 160 countries, it’s a curriculum trusted by top universities and employers across the globe. Whether your child wants to study in South Africa, Canada, the UK, or beyond, Cambridge provides a qualification that travels well. At its heart, it’s not just about where learners can go, but who they become along the way—resilient, culturally aware, and confident young adults. A Structured Pathway, A Flexible Future The Cambridge curriculum supports students from early secondary through to school-leaving level: Cambridge Lower Secondary prepares students with strong foundations. IGCSE develops subject mastery, critical thinking, and choice. AS and A Levels deepen academic strength and university readiness. What sets Cambridge apart is that it provides structure without being rigid. Schools can personalise delivery to reflect local relevance and learner needs, while still maintaining international benchmarks. More Than a Syllabus—A Skillset Cambridge places an emphasis on what students can do with what they know. Learners are encouraged to: Analyse and evaluate Think independently Communicate effectively Solve real-world problems This goes far beyond exam preparation. It cultivates learners who are emotionally and intellectually ready for the demands of university, the workplace, and society. Assessments That Develop, Not Diminish Rather than rewarding rote memorisation, Cambridge assessments are designed to reflect understanding, application, and insight. This aligns with GIS’s values of empowering learners and nurturing excellence at every stage. Students are given the chance to shine through varied question types and rigorous, fair marking. Real-World Application: Exposure to Global Pathways To bring this international value to life, we complement the academic journey with real-time exposure to global opportunities. Recently, GIS welcomed representatives from the University of Pretoria , as well as Canadian university campuses , who engaged learners on everything from study visas and scholarships to adapting to student life abroad. These experiences help students envision the next step and equip families with practical tools for planning their academic futures. The Functional Edge of a Cambridge School The Cambridge system is most powerful when paired with strong pastoral care and a culture of excellence. GIS aligns this with: AI-driven academic support Dedicated pastoral care , including a full-time psychologist Multicultural, inclusive environments Highly qualified teachers World-class sporting and co-curricular opportunities Together, these create not only superior academic outcomes but also well-rounded, adaptable students who are ready to thrive. In Summary: Confidence in the Journey Ahead A Cambridge education doesn’t just aim high—it helps students get there. It blends global standards with local care, academic rigour with emotional support, and structure with opportunity. That’s why parents feel proud of their children’s qualifications, and students feel confident in their future success. Thomas Ramakgoakgoa Head of High School Gaborone International School