Upper Secondary

Upper Secondary (14-16 years)
At North Zealand International School, we have high aspirations for our students. Not only do we want them to fulfil their potential academically but also develop into the global citizens needed for the future. By choosing IGCSEs they enjoy, they thrive and fulfil their potential.

In Upper Secondary (years 10 and 11) our students can study a combination of the following nine IGCSE subjects: English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Global Perspectives, Coordinated Science, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, History, Business Studies, French, Spanish and Art & Design

Cambridge IGCSE builds a great foundation for further study. NIS students will be fully prepared to progress to international pre-university study, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma, Pre-IB, Cambridge International, AS- and A-Level, and other post-16 routes. 

Our students benefit from the close knit community of the school which means they enjoy close working relationships with teachers.  Smaller class sizes mean more individual attention.

To prepare our students for the final exams at the end of the 2 years, we conduct practise exams, called mock exams, three times prior to the real exam.  This preparation and exposure means our students are used to taking exams so they are ready and will perform at their best in the final examination.  This gives them a real advantage.  All of the coursework our students produce is marked internal and moderated externally to ensure it is consistent with IGCSE standards.

All students in Year 10 and 11 continue to study Danish. Students follow either a core Danish course, aimed at beginner and intermediate learners while more advanced learners have the option, if they wish, to sit the Danish school leavers’ exam qualification (Folkeskolens Afgangsprøve) in Danish, at the end of Year 11.   

In our optional music programme, students of all ages and ability levels can fulfil their musical potential through challenging and engaging activities. Our emphasis is on practical work which allows the students to grow in confidence as they develop their vocal and instrumental skills as well as their communication and collaboration skills.

Our teachers use the online learning tool, IXL, to give the students practice at home on the maths learned in class.  Student also receive regular home learning activities form the subject teachers to develop skills at home.

Parents are kept in touch with progress made in the classroom throughout the year.  Teachers send regular blogs and school reports are sent out in January and June. Subject teachers and parents then meet to discuss the report.    

Our students in Upper Secondary enjoy annual trips to European cities. Edinburgh or Budapest have been explored by our Year 10 and 11 students in recent years. Not only is learning is central to these trips but the students develop long lasting friendships and support network.

Study groups

If teacher spots that a group of students are struggling with a topic then the students are invited to study group.  These groups provide short term targeted support to ensure mastery for all.

Community Service

Our students undertake 20 hours of community service in their final two years.  Students help at a range of places including helping at school events, working in embassies and charity shops.  Through this service we find that our students develop their time management skills, enjoy giving back and develop their ability to make a positive difference in their community.

Model United Nations

Every year our students enjoy participating in a model U.N. Each student represents a different country and important issues of the day are tabled and debated.  This enjoyable after school activity allows the students to develop their understanding of current world issues, diplomacy and international relations whilst enhancing their speaking, debating and writing skills.

Year 10 students join with Year 9 to visit Prague or Edinburgh on their trip.