If you’re a parent wondering what the best educational path is for your child, the Cambridge Lower Secondary program at the lower secondary school, formerly known as middle school, might be the answer you’re looking for. With its international reputation and innovative teaching approach, the Cambridge Lower Secondary program offers unique opportunities to develop students’ linguistic and critical thinking skills. In this article, we’ll answer parents’ most common questions about this program. Discover with us how the Cambridge Lower Secondary program can make a difference in your child’s education!
What is Cambridge Lower Secondary?
Cambridge Lower Secondary is an international program that offers a comprehensive and innovative education for students aged 11 to 14. It focuses not only on English language proficiency, but also on the acquisition of transversal skills in subjects such as, in our case, Art and Global Perspectives. It is designed to develop critical thinking, a deep understanding of content, and an international approach to learning.
What’s the difference between Cambridge Lower Secondary and the MOVERS, FLYERS, or KET for Schools exams?
The MOVERS, FLYERS, and KET exams are language certification tests that primarily assess students’ English proficiency. Cambridge Lower Secondary, on the other hand, is an integrated curriculum that uses English not only as a language of study but also as a means of deepening core subjects. This approach allows students to think and learn in English, going beyond simple language exam preparation.
How does Cambridge Lower Secondary operate at Holden Middle School?
At Holden Middle School, the Cambridge program is structured around subjects such as Art, Global Perspectives, and English, taught entirely in English. These lessons are taught by qualified teachers and follow the Cambridge curriculum, ensuring immersive and stimulating learning. Students complete practical activities, projects, and assessments in English, strengthening their linguistic and academic skills.
What’s the difference between CLIL and Cambridge Lower Secondary?
CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) focuses on the occasional teaching of certain subjects in a foreign language, often with a limited approach. Cambridge Lower Secondary, on the other hand, is a truly international curriculum: all Cambridge subjects follow global standards and are designed to provide continuity with subsequent stages, such as the Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge Advanced exams.
Will subjects taught entirely in foreign languages receive a double grade?
No, Cambridge subjects will be graded together and reported in English, following the international curriculum criteria. However, the skills acquired will be integrated into the overall assessment, ensuring a comprehensive view of the student’s abilities.
Is Cambridge Lower Secondary compulsory?
Yes, the Cambridge Lower Secondary program is an integral part of the curriculum at our school. We decided to make it compulsory because we firmly believe that this international opportunity can provide our students with a solid and competitive preparation for the future. It is an investment in their linguistic, academic, and global skills, which will prepare them to face any challenge with confidence!
Is there a Cambridge exam at the end of the eighth grade?
Yes, at the end of the Cambridge Lower Secondary program, students can take the Cambridge Checkpoint exams, which offer a detailed analysis of their acquired skills and provide an excellent foundation for subsequent international studies.
Do students have to be native speakers or bilingual to apply?
Absolutely not! The program is designed to accommodate students with varying levels of English. Thanks to targeted teaching support, even those with limited English proficiency can gradually integrate and develop the necessary skills. Our goal is to help each student reach their full potential.
What is the English level of students in eighth grade?
Students who complete the Cambridge curriculum in eighth grade on average achieve a B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), preparing them for more advanced international courses.
How are teachers selected?
Cambridge curriculum teachers are highly qualified, with specific certifications issued by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Furthermore, they regularly participate in training programs to ensure innovative and cutting-edge teaching, distinct from the traditional classroom approach.
What can students who have completed Cambridge Lower Secondary do after completing eighth grade?
Students who choose our Cambridge program can continue to high school with an international curriculum. Our school offers the opportunity to obtain a dual American diploma, a qualification valid in both Italy and the United States, further expanding future opportunities.
Are there other schools in the area that offer the Cambridge curriculum?
There are few schools in the area that offer the Cambridge curriculum, but Holden stands out for its integration of the program with our innovative educational method and the option to pursue a dual degree. This makes our program unique and highly competitive.
If you are looking for an educational option that combines the excellence of the Cambridge curriculum with an innovative and personalized approach, Holden International Secondary School is an ideal choice for your children’s future.
Please feel free to contact our office at
011 94 25 382 or by email at segreteria@istitutopascalchieri.it
For more details, we also invite you to visit our website at www.istitutopascalchieri.it (http://www.istitutopascalchieri.it).
We are thrilled to accompany you on this educational journey and welcome your children into our community!
