Beginning in 2009-2010, Uptown High introduced the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme.

The IB Diploma is a prestigious international pre-university qualification and is recognised by universities and governments throughout the world. It has been in existence for nearly 40 years and the IB Diploma programme is currently offered in more than 1,700 schools in 120 countries.

IB Diploma students study for the IB Diploma over two years (DP1 & DP2), taking six subjects from 6 different subject groups. Typically, students take a literature course in their own language, another modern or classical language, a science and a maths course, a humanities and an arts course. Students take three subjects at Higher Level (this indicates greater complexity of the subject matter) and three at Standard Level (a lower level of complexity of subject matter) and a wide choice of subjects is offered.

Subjects offered for 2010-2011 are as follows:

In addition, all students undertake 3 core subjects. The Theory of Knowledge course challenges the student to develop a personal mode of thought and a coherent approach to learning. CAS (creativity, action, service) encourages students to adopt a balanced life outside the academic realm. The Extended Essay provides the opportunity to investigate a topic of interest using research and writing skills of a high standard. The award of the Diploma is recognition that students have completed all parts of the programme and marks a high level of achievement.

Uptown High recognises the multitude of skills required to allow our students to be successful.  Learning how to learn and to evaluate information critically is an important part of the IB Diploma programme. Students also achieve a depth and breadth of study within the broad curriculum in which subjects are studied concurrently and in a coherent manner. This equips students with the skills and attitudes they require for higher education or employment and engenders international understanding and responsible citizenship.

In deciding to study the IB Diploma at Uptown High, students will take a fully integrated and active part in the life of the school. Academic classes are taught by specialist teachers and all sports and activities are undertaken as part of the wider school community.

An alternative to the Diploma is the IB Certificate Programme. This is a demanding 2 year course of study with rigorous assessment that leads to external examinations conducted by the IBO at the end of Grade 12. It is suitable for students who opt to study IB subjects outside of the required pattern of Group 1-6 (above), or at different levels than that set by the IB, especially in the second year of the programme.

Students who successfully meet the subject requirements receive IB Certificates for those subjects. These are accepted by some universities overseas, by colleges and for Foundation Courses. Students and families are advised to check the websites of individual universities.