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.
The Central Coast Steiner School is proud to announce that it will be offering the highly regarded International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB Diploma) in 2025 as our Years 11 and 12 program, becoming the only school on the Central Coast to provide this world–class educational opportunity. The IB Diploma is an internationally recognised curriculum that prepares students for university and beyond, distinguishing them in their academic and personal development.
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.
“I want to do the IB Diploma because it offers a global perspective and challenges me to think critically about the world. I’m especially excited about studying Psychology and Theory of Knowledge, which I can’t do in the HSC. Plus, it prepares me well for university, and I feel like I’ll be more ready for whatever comes next.” – Current Year 10 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.
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 are excited to see how our students will flourish in this dynamic program.
We are currently offering scholarships to Year 11s in 2025. For further information visit the Central Coast Steiner School website.
(02) 4362 3400 | info@ccrss.nsw.edu.au | ccss.nsw.edu.au | 10 Catamaran Rd, Fountaindale NSW 2258, Australia