At Central Coast Steiner School, we are committed to nurturing the growth of young people so that they grow into caring, capable and creative adults. Within a supportive community, we provide rich opportunities that enable each student to succeed far beyond the years at school.
Central Coast Steiner School offers the highly regarded International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB Diploma) as our Years 11 and 12 program. We are proud to be the only school on the Central Coast providing this world-class educational opportunity – an internationally recognised curriculum that prepares students for university and life beyond, setting them apart through both academic excellence and personal growth.
What sets the IB Diploma apart from the HSC?
The IB Diploma stands out due to its global focus and depth of learning. The program is structured to develop well-rounded, independent learners who are ready for the challenges of higher education and the wider world. It is known for its broad curriculum, which covers six unique subject groups: language and literature, foreign languages, social sciences, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. One of the most distinct aspects of the IB Diploma is its core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). These are designed to nurture inquiry, research skills, creativity, and community engagement, which are integral to the program and set it apart from the HSC’s more content–driven approach.
“The IB Diploma isn’t just giving me knowledge – it’s challenging me to think critically, act ethically, and become a more open–minded and confident learner.” – Current Year 11 Student
The IB Learner Profile: preparing for the future
At the heart of the IB Diploma is the IB Learner Profile, which emphasises developing students into well–rounded individuals. The profile identifies key attributes such as being inquirers, knowledgeable, communicators, principled, balanced and reflective.
These qualities are intentionally developed throughout the two year program, ensuring that students emerge not only academically prepared but also as thoughtful, compassionate, and engaged global citizens.
University readiness and ATAR conversion
Universities across Australia and the world value IB Diploma graduates for their academic depth and breadth. The IB Diploma’s overall score is converted into an ATAR–equivalent Combined Rank. Universities often prefer IB students due to the program’s holistic approach, which cultivates skills beyond the classroom and ensures graduates are ready for both university life and professional success.
These qualities are intentionally developed throughout the two year program, ensuring that students emerge not only academically prepared but also as thoughtful, compassionate, and engaged global citizens
A recent study conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) by Hillman, Edwards and Clarke, (2024) found that new research shows: “Australian students who study the International Baccalaureate Diploma have higher university entry rates and course completion than their peers, regardless of their socio–economic background…”
In offering the IB Diploma, the Central Coast Steiner School continues its commitment to providing an education that empowers students to thrive in a complex, interconnected world. The IB Diploma aligns perfectly with the Steiner philosophy of nurturing creative, critical, and independent thinkers, and we take great delight in seeing how our students flourish in this dynamic program.
To learn more or apply, visit the Central Coast Steiner School website.