The Cambridge curriculum is both challenging and inspiring, fostering an informed curiosity and developing techniques for independent learning. Cambridge International A Levels are regarded as a gold standard for university entrance qualifications across the world. Learners entering university with a Cambridge qualification will have become accustomed to the level of academic independence required for tertiary education, providing them with a substantial advantage in their first year of study.
Applications for Grade 10s will open at the end of Term 2 and will be available to access through an online link. Acceptance into the programme will be determined by performance in the Grade 10 June exams, with a minimum requirement of an overall aggregate of 75%. However, consideration will be given to applicants with an aggregate above 65%, dependent on work ethic and subject choices.
The shift from Grade 10 NSC to AS Levels is academically challenging, as the curriculum presents a more advanced, in-depth level of study which requires good time management skills and a proficiency in independent study.
Group 1 |
Group 2 |
Group 3 |
Group 4 |
AS Level English Language and Literature |
IGCSE Afrikaans |
Mathematics |
Physics |
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IGCSE/AS Level French |
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Chemistry |
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Biology |
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Economics |
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History |
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Computer Science |
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Music |
*One subject from each of groups 1, 2 and 3 are compulsory in Grade 11
Grade 11
In Grade 11 learners will take six subjects:
- AS Level English Language and Literature
- IGCSE Afrikaans/French
- Mathematics
- Three electives from Group 4
Group 4 subjects will be timetabled based on interest in the various subjects and some combinations may not be available.
The subject selection for Grade 11 is based on Matriculation Exemption requirements, allowing for entry into South African universities. Learners interested in studying at overseas universities may be exempt from taking a second language.
Learners interested in taking a subject outside of the Bishops offering can study privately and write their Cambridge exams at the school.
Grade 12
In Grade 12 learners will choose three subjects from Groups 3 and 4 to carry through to A Level. For these subjects, the marks from the AS Level exams written in Grade 11 are carried through to Grade 12 and combined with the Grade 12 exam marks to contribute towards an overall A Level mark.
In 2025, in addition to the normal fees, learners studying the Cambridge curriculum will be charged R25000 per annum to cover the costs of the annual Cambridge Centre registration and registration for exams.
Cambridge International offers a June exam series and a November exam series each year. Bishops makes use of the November exam series, while providing learners with the opportunity to re-write a subject in June of the following year if they wish to improve their marks. Please note that any exam registration fees for re-writes will be charged to your school account.