Published on February 26, 2025
At Hunter Valley Grammar School (HVGS), we are committed to providing differentiated pathways to educational excellence for our students. One of our key strategic priorities is Excellence in Holistic Education, which you can read more about in our Strategic Plan.
Following our authorisation by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) to offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), HVGS has become the only school in Australia to offer all four IB programmes. This milestone aligns with our strategic vision, establishing a seamless continuum of learning from the early years to Year 12 for students who choose an IB pathway in years 11 and 12. Regardless of what pathway student choose in Year 11 and 12 – HSC or IB – our students who begin their journey in our Early Learning Centre and graduate in Year 12 will experience a coherent, developmentally appropriate education that sets them apart.
A fundamental principle of all four IB programmes is the commitment to “thinking globally and acting locally.” IB students are encouraged to apply their knowledge with increasing depth and sophistication as they progress through the School, fostering a commitment to peace and a sustainable future.
With full authorisation to offer the IB Diploma, HVGS further strengthens its position as a leader in education in New South Wales and Australia. Recognised both nationally and globally, the IB Diploma is a rigorous yet accessible qualification that promotes deep inquiry and critical thinking around local and global issues. It is not an elite programme but rather an inclusive framework that supports a diverse range of learners, including those aspiring to local and international university pathways.
Becoming a four-programme IB World School reinforces our commitment to the IBO’s philosophy and pedagogical approach. It ensures that teaching and learning at HVGS continue to prioritise critical thinking, deep learning, and complex problem-solving across all year levels.
In an era of teacher shortages, offering all four IB programmes provides a significant advantage. HVGS already has several experienced IB Diploma teachers, and this status will help us attract and retain outstanding educators, both locally and internationally. Additionally, our staff will benefit from access to a robust professional learning network through the IBO.
Additionally, as a culturally and linguistically diverse school community, offering all four IB programmes strengthens our ability to support globally mobile and globally minded families, ensuring an education that is both world-class and future-focused.
Below, we have compiled some FAQs to better understand the IB Diploma and what is on offer for HVGS students.
How will the IB Diploma impact the HSC?
The IB Diploma will not impact the HSC. Instead, the IB Diploma will become another pathway to graduation at HVGS, just like the HSC and our VET courses. The IB Diploma is a natural fit for us as we already have the other three IB programmes.
What will the IB Diploma mean for the other IB programmes in the school?
The IB Diploma enhances our suite of our other IB programmes at HVGS. We will have a continuum of learning that moves from three- to eighteen-year-olds, and thereby provides continuity in focus, purpose and pedagogy.
Across all programmes is a strong focus on building deep understanding as a key element of academic rigour; a commitment to service and action; a belief in the importance of collaboration, creativity and critical thinking; and a desire to support connected thinking across the curriculum. Regardless of whether your child does the IB Diploma in the future, all will benefit from a renewed commitment to the IB programmes and an extensive professional learning network of teachers.
What does the IB Diploma mean for university entrance?
Those engaged in the IB Diploma will graduate from HVGS with a globally recognised qualification as well as an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) equivalent score. In this sense, they come out with two qualifications: an ATAR equivalent for entrance to universities in Australia and an IB overall score (out of 45) that enables entrance to universities around the world.
If you are interested in exploring the IB DP at HVGS, please reach out to School.