IB Diploma
At St. Julian’s, we ensure students begin the IB with the best chance of success. Entry into the programme is based on a student’s ability to meet the academic demands with a minimum requirements.
- Candidates must have at least a grade 4/C in six or more IGCSE subjects (to obtain equivalência in the Portuguese education system) with at least a Grade 4/C in English Language (first or second) and at least a Grade 4/C in Mathematics.
- For subjects chosen at Higher Level (HL), it is recommended that candidates have a minimum grade of 6/B at IGCSE.
- For subjects chosen at Standard Level (SL), it is recommended that candidates have a minimum grade of 4/C at IGCSE.
- For Mathematics Higher Level it is recommended that candidates have at least an 8/A in Mathematics at IGCSE.
- If the subject was available to the student, but was not studied at IGCSE, students are expected to demonstrate their interest, understanding and aptitude for the subject when choosing it for IB. This will be discussed with the relevant Head of Department before confirmation of enrolment in the subject.
- If a subject was not available at IGCSE the following recommendations are suggested:
- HL Economics – 6/B in English Language.
- HL Psychology – 6/B in English Language.
- HL Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) – 6/B in Biology / Geography / Double Award Science for HL.
- There is no IGCSE requirement for ab initio (beginner level) languages.
The IB Diploma at St. Julian’s begins with an inspiring five-day residential trip, where students are introduced to core elements of the programme, including Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, Creativity Activity Service and the IB Learner Profile. This is an invaluable opportunity for our IB cohort to bond and coalesce with each other and their teachers ahead of their IB journey.
The IB approaches to teaching and learning are integrated with our own 10 Learning Essentials and the 6Cs – Compassionate, Curious, Courage, Citizenship, Courageous and Collaboration.
This blended combination forms an exceptionally strong pedagogical foundation for all our teaching and tuition, creating a distinctive and effective approach. We provide a personalised learning environment for our students. Small class sizes, qualified and experienced IB-trained staff and a safe, supportive environment foster strong student-teacher relationships. This encourages students to take the intellectual risks they need to grow and flourish. Right from the start, students are encouraged to be independent and see themselves and others as global citizens.

Excellent University Outcomes
Almost all of our IB graduates continue to top universities in the UK, Portugal, Europe, Canada and the US. They are supported along the way by our dedicated Student Futures Team of three university counsellors.
Subjects available for 2025/26
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Extended Essay Support
Enrichment opportunities
Active and competitive sports
Engaging Societies and House Life
Leadership Development
Career-Related Programme (CP)
Balancing academic and practical skills
Starting September 2025, we will be the only school in Portugal to offer the IB Career-related Programme (CP), expanding the choices for senior students. The CP will provide an innovative and practical alternative to the IB Diploma, letting students focus more deeply on fewer subjects. Courses from the IB Diploma Programme are combined with career-related studies, providing a balance of theory and practical skills. The CP fosters transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication and resilience. Students become equipped for three alternative pathways: higher education, internships or straight into work.
Flexible, personalised curriculum
The CP allows schools to tailor the programme to local needs and contexts, enabling us to provide a relevant, meaningful experience for all of our students. By offering the CP, we reinforce our commitment to providing high-quality international education that prepares each student for the challenges of the 21st century.