Senior School

Our Curriculum

Senior School (Year 7-13, ages 11-18years) is when we start to prepare our young people for important examinations, higher education and the world of work. Grounded in academic excellence, students experience a well-rounded education that offers a breadth of exciting and challenging extracurricular activities and learning opportunities that fuel creativity, build confidence, and shape character, all the while supported by a school infrastructure that prioritises well-being and life skills. It’s a Worldwise Student Journey that inspires young people to think big, aim high, and thrive.

Lower Senior School 

Lower Senior School/Middle School (Year 7-9, ages 11-14years) is a time of growing independent when students follow a broad and engaging programme that lays the foundation for success in the examination years. Students embark on a wide range of challenging, practical and exciting learning experiences, developing self-awareness and values that will prepare them for the future. 

Upper Senior School/Upper School  

IGCSE Programme in Years 10 and 11  

Whilst in Years 10 and 11, students get their first experience of externally recognised examinations, they continue to enjoy a wide range or activities including student leadership, performances, expeditions and co-curricular activities. Schools may also offer bespoke programmes in technology, entrepreneurship and innovation. 

IB Diploma Programme option in Years 12 and 13 

Schools offer the internationally recognised  IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). This provides students with deep knowledge and skills development across a wide range of subjects as preparation for continued study at university. Students who choose the IBDP have the opportunity to study 6 subjects as well as additional modules like the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and a Creativity-Activity-Service (CAS) project that prepare them well for Higher Education. 

IAD option in Years 12 and 13

In some of our schools, an International Advanced Diploma (IAD) pathway is also offered for students wishing for greater specialisation. The IAD is an innovative new curriculum that gives students the academic qualifications they need to succeed in their university applications - and the real-world skills to thrive in all aspects of life. It combines three key components. Internationally renowned A-levels to open the doors to leading universities worldwide. Seven real-world skills to lay the foundations for lifelong success. And a global network of university and industry partners to provide mentorship, insight and guidance from world-leading experts. 

Academic Results 

Academic excellence is the driving force behind everything we do at Dulwich College International and our High School Programmes. This year, we’re thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our graduating class. Through determination, passion, and a relentless pursuit of their goals, they’ve once again raised the bar and made us incredibly proud. Their success is a true testament to the DCI spirit in action. 

University and Careers Counselling (UCC)

At Dulwich College International, leadership means more than holding a title—it’s about inspiring real, positive change. Our Senior School students have access to a rich variety of formal and informal opportunities to build their leadership skills, make their voices heard, and become confident, compassionate changemakers. They quickly discover that great leadership starts with empathy, teamwork, and a drive to make a difference. Selected student leaders also take part in our dynamic, group-wide Student Leadership Conference, where they receive expert training, exchange ideas, and connect with like-minded peers across our global family of schools. With so many ways to lead, every student is empowered to step up, stand out, and shape the world around them. 

Wellbeing  

At Dulwich College International, we believe every student thrives when they feel empowered to be a partner if their own learning and wellbeing. That’s why our Student Wellbeing Framework was carefully created with input from both staff and students across our schools. It’s built around four guiding principles that capture the heart of what wellbeing means to us – ensuring every student feels supported, confident, and ready to flourish. 

1. There is nothing more important for DCI than the health and wellbeing of our students and the entire community.  
2. The responsibility for the wellbeing of each individual student is shared by the community and the fostering of student wellbeing should be prioritised equally – inside and outside the classroom.  
3. Leadership and staff recognise that there is valuable, actionable wisdom uniquely inherent in the perspective, sentiment, and voice of students.  
4. Our health and well-being approach is designed to directly address the causes of student illbeing, by acknowledging risks like stress, self-esteem, and relationship conflict.  

The Dulwich Difference

Live Worldwise isn’t just a motto—it’s the heartbeat of Dulwich College International. It captures the bold, global mindset and deep integrity of our students and alumni, who embody the Dulwich Difference wherever life takes them. Whether they’re with us for a year or a lifetime, every student is empowered by a culture of curiosity, compassion, and purpose. From pioneering the use of AI in the classroom to leading real-world initiatives that shape communities, DCI students don’t just learn about the world—they’re equipped to change it. They leave us not only ready for the future, but ready to lead it.