Is the IGCSE system better than 844?
For many parents who would like to transition from the 844 system to the IGCSE/British system, there are a number of questions that people usually have. For one, there’s a huge misconception that kids who go to the IGCSE system are spoiled and that their subjects are too easy, yet this in itself is completely false.
British Curriculum (GCSE) is a system of education taught in selected schools in Kenya. The curriculum, which originated from Britain, is pursued by students whose parents are not into 8-4-4 system. There are several advantages of GCSE system over 8-4-4 system, which are explained below.
1.It’s not just about exams but…
Unlike 8—4-4 system where students are only taught how to pass exams, British system entails class work, extra curricula activities and talent enhancement.
2.It’s easier to get into top international universities
The British system is believed to be more relevant to the system of education in UK universities. If a student manages to pursue the system in Kenya, it’s easy to be admitted to top UK universities. But KCSE students must go through several tests before being admitted to such universities.
3.Students from the British system are more innovative
The most interesting thing about the British system is that employers have this believe that the students who go through the system are innovative. This is because they (students) are taken through a system where talent identification is sought as well as innovation. By the time the student is released to the world, he is ready to pursue his own interests as an entrepreneur or help top companies come up with innovative products.
4.Easier to get a UK scholarship
When it comes to UK scholarships, obvious students who go through their system are provided with first priority during selection. It’s hard for KCSE product to compete with GCSE product in this line.
5.It encourages children to choose subjects that they are actually good in
By the time a child has reached year 11/O levels which is the equivalent to fourth form most children already have an idea of what they want to be. This is because children are motivated and guided to pick the subjects that they are good in and that will lead them to the jobs they want. The IGCSE system also offers a wide range of subjects that are applicable in real life and can be studied in University, for example subjects such as sociology, psychology and law are offered as early as year 11.