The Advanced
International Certificate of Education (AICE) Diploma is the final phase for
high schoolers completing an academic track in preparation for post-school
studies, i.e. Degrees. This is not a vocationally orientated award, however it
can also serve as a solid stepping stone for vocational careers/studies. AICE is
at the advanced level, consisting of Advanced Supplementary subjects at Ivy Academy,
and is for learners who, at minimum, turn 16 years of age in the first year of registration for the
award, and who have already achieved either a Grade 9, Grade 10 or the
Cambridge ICE award.
The AICE Diploma
represents the ‘gold standard’ Cambridge International AS (Advanced
Supplementary) and A (Advanced) Level qualifications. A minimum of two years of
learning is required to achieve either of the AICE Diplomas.
It allows for the offering of a broad and balanced curriculum by
recognising the achievements of learners who pass examinations in at least
seven Cambridge AS subjects, one compulsory subject (Cambridge Global
Perspectives & Research), and six chosen from four different subject
groups, including two different languages. This award provides technical,
foundational and preparatory access for seamless entry to higher education
and/or the workplace. Learners who enrol at Ivy Academy for the AICE will be
counselled on subject selections based on their post-school intentions and in
relation to endorsement requirements for Bachelor’s Degree study at South
African universities.
Cambridge Assessment International Education is affiliated with
Cambridge University and has offered international school awards for over 160
years. Renowned globally, the Cambridge awards are recognised for the high
standards set and the curriculum rigour.
To achieve the Diploma, all learners will need to study and pass the revised
Cambridge International AS Level Global Perspectives & Research (9239).
This skills-based course challenges learners to think critically, analyse evidence and compare perspectives. The learning is assessed through a team project and presentation as well as a written examination.
Group 1: Mathematics and Sciences
Group 2: Languages
Group 3: Arts and Humanities
Group 4: Interdisciplinary subjects (optional)
Learners must achieve at least one credit from each of Groups 1, 2 and 3. A maximum of two credits can count from Group 4, which is optional. Cambridge International A Level subjects are graded from A* to E. Cambridge International AS Level subjects are graded A to E. There is no A* grade awarded at Cambridge International AS Level. The Cambridge AICE Diploma is awarded on a points system, so each grade is converted to a number of points as shown in the table below. Grade A* is awarded 140 points, however the maximum number of Cambridge AICE Diploma points is capped at 420.
The Cambridge curricula are not for the faint of heart and will be for the final-phase high schooler who wants to stand out from the crowd. Cambridge learning is about comprehension, understanding, and application and is designed for independent thinkers and doers. All learning is contextualised, and the curriculum encourages discernment, the use of the scientific method of enquiry, which becomes an approach to life. Candidates who have completed Cambridge AICE experience few challenges when transitioning to post-school studies. Their preparation for the next phase of learning is complete. The Cambridge journey will require hard work and diligence. At Ivy Academy, our unique approach to teaching, learning, assessment, and student support, including mentoring and monitoring, has served us enviably in the higher education space with impressive participation rates and throughput statistics. To onboard learners successfully into online/distance study and the demands of the Cambridge curriculum, we have robust support systems in place, as follows: student wellness, study skills programmes, computer literacy courses, and academic literacy advice and material. We understand the importance of creating knowledge pathways that give access and encourage deep learning within the disciplines.