SAP & IB® (Y9-12)

Students with strong academic ability deserve opportunities that challenge them to think deeply, ask meaningful questions and reach their potential. Beginning in Year 9, the Secondary Accelerated Program (SAP) provides a four-year pathway into the internationally recognised IB® Diploma Programme, developing the knowledge, independence and research skills that prepare students for university and beyond.

SAP & IB® Points of Difference

Every student has different strengths, interests and aspirations. SAP and the IB® Diploma Programme provide an academically challenging pathway for students who are ready to extend their learning, think independently and prepare for university through an internationally recognised qualification.

Accelerated Learning

Learning is designed to challenge academically capable students through an enriched curriculum that encourages critical thinking, independent inquiry and deeper subject knowledge. Beginning in Year 9, students develop the academic confidence and research skills needed for success throughout their senior years.

Four-Year Academic Pathway

Beginning in Year 9, SAP provides a structured pathway into the IB® Diploma Programme. Over four years, students progressively develop the knowledge, study habits and academic independence required to confidently undertake one of the world's leading pre-university qualifications.

University Preparation

The IB® Diploma Programme prepares students for higher education through academic breadth, independent research and analytical thinking. Recognised by leading universities throughout Australia and internationally, it equips students with the knowledge and skills to succeed beyond secondary school.

A Continuous Academic Pathway

Academic growth happens over time. Beginning in Year 9, SAP provides an enriched learning environment that prepares students for the expectations of the IB® Diploma Programme. As students progress through the pathway, they develop the knowledge, confidence and independence needed to succeed in one of the world's leading pre-university qualifications.

Year 9 – Secondary Accelerated Program (SAP)

Students begin their accelerated learning journey through an enriched curriculum designed to challenge their thinking and strengthen core academic skills. Greater emphasis is placed on analytical thinking, independent inquiry, research and problem solving while building the study habits and resilience needed for senior secondary learning.

Year 10 – Pre-IB® Preparation

Year 10 builds on the foundations established in SAP, preparing students for the academic expectations of the IB® Diploma Programme. Students continue to strengthen their writing, research and critical thinking skills while making informed subject selections aligned with their strengths, interests and future university aspirations.

Years 11 & 12 – IB® Diploma Programme

Students undertake the internationally recognised IB® Diploma Programme, studying a broad curriculum while developing expertise in their chosen Higher Level subjects. Through independent research, critical thinking and academic inquiry, students graduate well prepared for university and opportunities both within Australia and internationally.

Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS)

Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) is a core element of the IB® Diploma Programme, encouraging students to apply their learning beyond the classroom through meaningful experiences that develop initiative, leadership and a commitment to serving others.

At Islamic College of Melbourne, students complete a wide range of CAS experiences, including community service, leadership opportunities and collaborative projects that make a positive contribution to those around them. Students also have the opportunity to participate in national and international CAS trips, where they build independence, strengthen intercultural understanding and develop a broader perspective while engaging in authentic service and educational experiences. These opportunities complement academic study and help prepare students to become confident, compassionate and globally minded young adults.

Introduction to the IB® Diploma Programme

The IB® Diploma Programme is an internationally recognised two-year qualification completed in Years 11 and 12. It combines academic depth with a broad curriculum, encouraging students to think critically, conduct independent research and apply their learning across a range of disciplines. Recognised by leading universities throughout Australia and around the world, the programme prepares students for the expectations of higher education and lifelong learning.

Six Subject Groups

Students study six subjects across languages, humanities, sciences and mathematics, creating a balanced academic programme while allowing them to pursue areas of interest and future university pathways through carefully selected Higher and Standard Level subjects.

Higher & Standard Level Learning

Students typically study three subjects at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. This allows them to explore their strongest subjects in greater depth while maintaining a broad academic foundation across the curriculum.

The IB® Core

Every student completes Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Together, these core components develop critical thinking, independent research, reflection and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom.

University Preparation

The IB® Diploma Programme is recognised by universities throughout Australia and internationally. Through academic breadth, independent inquiry and strong study habits, students graduate well prepared for tertiary education, with IB® results converted to an ATAR Selection Rank through VTAC for Australian university applications.

SAP & IB® Curriculum & Subjects

Beginning in Year 9, the SAP and IB® pathway provides academically capable students with an enriched curriculum that develops analytical thinking, research skills and academic independence. As students progress into the IB® Diploma Programme in Years 11 and 12, they undertake a broad and internationally recognised curriculum that prepares them for university and future success. Subject availability within the IB® Diploma Programme may vary based on student demand and programme requirements.

Year 9 Secondary Accelerated Program (SAP)

The Secondary Accelerated Program (SAP) provides academically capable students with an enriched curriculum that extends learning beyond the standard classroom program. Beginning in Year 9, students are encouraged to think critically, investigate complex ideas and develop the confidence to work independently while strengthening the academic foundations required for senior secondary studies.

Learning places greater emphasis on analytical thinking, research, problem solving and academic communication across a broad range of subjects. Throughout the year, students develop the study habits, resilience and intellectual curiosity that prepare them for the increasing expectations of the IB® Diploma Programme.

Year 10 Pre-IB®

Year 10 builds on the foundations established through SAP, preparing students for entry into the IB® Diploma Programme. As academic expectations increase, students continue to strengthen their analytical thinking, academic writing, research skills and independent learning while making informed decisions about their future subject selections.

Throughout the year, students work closely with teachers and the IB® Coordinator to explore Higher Level and Standard Level subject choices, understand university prerequisites and develop the organisational skills needed to confidently undertake the demands of the Diploma Programme.

IB® Diploma Programme Curriculum

During Years 11 and 12, students study six subjects across a broad range of disciplines, creating a balanced academic programme while allowing them to pursue greater depth in the subjects most closely aligned with their interests and future university pathways. Students typically complete three Higher Level (HL) subjects and three Standard Level (SL) subjects, balancing academic breadth with subject specialisation.

Studies in Language and Literature

Group 1
English A: Language and Literature (HL/SL)

Download IB® Language A Subject Brief (PDF)

Language Acquisition

Group 2
Arabic B (HL/SL)
French ab initio (SL)

Download IB® Language B Subject Brief (PDF)

Download IB® Language ab initio Subject Brief (PDF)

Individuals and Societies

Group 3
Business Management (HL/SL)
Global Politics (HL/SL)
Psychology (HL/SL)

Download IB® Business Management Subject Brief (PDF)

Download IB® Global Politics Subject Brief (PDF)

Download IB® Psychology Subject Brief (PDF)

Sciences

Group 4
Biology (HL/SL)
Chemistry (HL/SL)
Physics (HL/SL)

Download IB® Biology Subject Brief (PDF)

Download IB® Chemistry Subject Brief (PDF)

Download IB® Physics Subject Brief (PDF)

Mathematics

Group 5
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (SL)
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (SL)

Download IB® Analysis and Approaches Subject Brief (PDF)

Download IB® Applications and Interpretation Subject Brief (PDF)

The Arts

Group 6
Visual Arts (HL/SL)

Download IB® Visual Arts Subject Brief (PDF)

Subject Flexibility

Students may choose a second subject from Groups 3 or 4 in place of a Group 6 subject, allowing greater flexibility to tailor their studies to future university pathways and personal interests. Subject availability may vary depending on student demand and programme requirements.

The IB® Core

At the centre of the Diploma Programme is the IB® Core, a unique combination of learning experiences completed by every student. Together, these components develop critical thinking, research skills and personal growth while encouraging meaningful community engagement.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

Theory of Knowledge encourages students to explore how knowledge is created, evaluated and applied across different disciplines. Through discussion and reflection, students develop critical thinking skills while considering different perspectives and real-world issues.

Download IB® Theory of Knowledge Subject Brief (PDF)

Extended Essay (EE)

The Extended Essay is an independent research project that allows students to investigate a topic of personal interest in depth. Guided by a supervisor, students develop advanced research and academic writing skills that provide valuable preparation for university study.

Download IB® Extended Essay Subject Brief (PDF)

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Creativity, Activity, Service encourages students to apply their learning through creative pursuits, physical activity and meaningful community service. These experiences support personal development while strengthening leadership and a commitment to contributing to others.

Download IB® CAS Subject Brief (PDF)

IB® Diploma Handbook & Policies

Access important documents relating to the IB® Diploma Programme. These resources provide additional information for students and families and should be read alongside the information provided by the College.

IB® Diploma Programme Handbook 2026-2027

Learn about the structure of the IB® Diploma Programme, subject selection, assessment requirements, the IB® Core and key expectations for students.

Download IB® Diploma Programme Handbook 2026-2027 (PDF)

IB® Diploma General Regulations Policy

Review the IB® Diploma Programme General Regulations Policy, including the expectations, requirements and responsibilities that apply to students undertaking the IB® Diploma Programme.

Download IB® Diploma Programme General Regulations Policy

Student CareerTools Portal

Explore career pathways, university and TAFE courses, occupations, labour market information and career planning resources to support informed pathway decisions.

Visit the Student CareerTools Portal

Secondary Enrolments & College Tours

Enrolments & College Tours

Every student deserves a pathway that reflects their academic strengths, interests and future goals. Visit Islamic College of Melbourne to explore the Secondary Accelerated Program and IB® Diploma Programme, meet our dedicated staff and discover how advanced learning and strong academic support prepare students for university and beyond. If you’re considering a change of school, our team is here to support a smooth transition into the pathway.

Book a College Tour or learn more about Enrolment today.

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