Cambridge Diploma Program

Welcome!

Ermitage has long offered an IGCSE Program to its 9th and 10th grade (3e and 2nde age) students. The school has now consolidated its efforts around a full junior diploma program, known as the Cambridge Diploma Program (CDP). This program is fully accredited by the University of Cambridge International Examination Board.

This 2-year course of study benefits from a distinct learning environment created by an experienced, international team of teachers. Great emphasis is placed on the development of critical inquiry and in-depth research. A blend of written and practical work, as well as field trips and cultural activities is designed to give students a wider, more international perspective.

And, in the spirit of a true pre-IBDP curriculum, students are asked to participate in both a Pre-TOK (Theory of Knowledge) class and an extra-curricular Junior CAS (Creativity, Action and Service) Program.

The CDP at Ermitage is open to students of various linguistic and educational backgrounds whether they:

Have followed a British or American curriculum
Have studied in international schools
Seek a pre-IBDP program of study

However, it must be noted that students who are not native English speakers must have a sufficiently high level of English fluency to follow classes and carry out written work and exams entirely in English.

Our CDP Coordinator, Dr. Jason Hearn, will be very happy to meet with you and your child to discuss the many exciting opportunities at our school. For application and admissions information, please feel free to contact our Admissions Office, or go back to admissions.

Why Choose the CDP at Ermitage?

Small class size
Student-centered classroom
Adapted to different learning profiles
Qualified Teachers are IB-trained
An ideal preparation for the IB Diploma Program
Students gain an internationally recognized junior diploma

What is the CDP?

Based on the international general certificate of education (IGCSE)
Requires the study of subjects drawn from IGCSE subject groups
Opportunity to benefit from a broad and balanced curriculum
Recognizes achievements of students who pass examinations

At Ermitage, CDP students are:

Expected to take minimum of 8 subjects with 2 languages, a curriculum that exceeds requirements for the CDP
Permitted to obtain the Diploma by selecting the 7 best results (out of 8 exams) in 6 curriculum areas
Supported in their work through small classes designed specifically for guided study and research skills
Not limited on the maximum number of subjects taken!

The CDP Curriculum Model at Ermitage (subject choices are divided into 6 groups):

Group 1: First Language	English French Spanish Chinese - Mandarin (prepared independently)
Group 2: Foreign Language	EnglishFrench SpanishChinese – Mandarin (prepared independently)
Group 3: Humanities and Social Sciences	History English Literature
Group 4: Sciences	Biology Physics Chemistry Co-ordinated Sciences (counts as 2 subjects)
Group 5: Mathematics	Mathematics (levels vary according to aptitude)
Group 6: Creative, Technical, Vocational	Art & Design Business Management
Core Subjects: Mandatory for all students	Pre-TOK Junior CAS

*Other subjects are available, dependent upon demand

The Core of the CDP Curriculum Model consists of two components:

A Pre-TOK course: destined to develop critical thinking and inquisitive minds – a core tool needed for the IBDP Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class. The course not only examines the different ways a student “knows” something, but also guides the student in research and thinking skills.
Junior CAS: a preparation for the IBDP Creativity Action and Service (CAS) Program. Junior CAS allows students to continue participating in Passport Activities begun in Middle School, whilst developing new skills.

INTRODUCING - Pre-CDP/iGCSE: Pilot Program for 4e/8th Grade Classes

Following numerous requests from parents about a more heavily weighted English-based course of study within the bilingual curriculum at the Middle School level, we are pleased to announce a new program for students.

This pre-CDP pilot program will be based on the British Key Stage 3 curriculum and will offer students the possibility of studying primarily in English. This alternative course of study will be offered in September 2010 to the 4e students – the equivalent to the British Year 9 or American Grade 8.

Core subjects taught in English:

• English Language
• English Literature (Civilization)
• History
• Geography
• Mathematics
• Experimental Science
• Design and Technology

In order to maintain, indeed increase, exposure to the French Language, the following lessons will be taught in French:

• French
• Sports
• Art
• Music

To complement this curriculum, writing workshops, adventure weekends, academic trips, science field trips, community service and study skills will also be offered.

This curriculum prepares students for the higher level international studies already offered at Ermitage, notably the Cambridge Diploma Program (CDP/iGCSE for Years 10 & 11) and International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (6th Form).

A full fee structure will be available shortly and will be posted under “Admission: Tuition and Fees”.

To learn more about the new Pre-CDP Program, please contact our Admissions Office