International Baccalaureate (IB) Environment Systems and Societies Diploma

Applications Open: 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: 27th February 2026

Application Details: At Hartsdown Academy we run the International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme https://www.ibo.org/programmes/career-related-programme/ . Prospective students need to choose 1 Vocational Course (BTEC or OCR) and 2 IB Diploma Courses.

Entry Requirements: 5 x Grade 4-9 including Maths & English. A good attendance and behaviour record is also essential.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Environmental systems and societies (ESS) is an interdisciplinary course, encompassing both the sciences and individuals and societies and is offered at both standard level (SL) and higher level (HL).

We know how important it is to understand the world around us and ESS enables students to fully engage in the challenges of 21st century environmental issues.

ESS aims to empower and equip students to:

1. develop understanding of their own environmental impact, in the broader context of the impact of humanity on the Earth and its biosphere

2. develop knowledge of diverse perspectives to address issues of sustainability

3. engage and evaluate the tensions around environmental issues using critical thinking

4. develop a systems approach that provides a holistic lens for the exploration of environmental issues

5. be inspired to engage in environmental issues across local and global contexts.

This IB course is available at both Standard Level and Higher Level.

Environmental perspectives, systems and sustainability

Biodiversity and conservation

Atmosphere and climate change

Natural resources

Human populations and urban systems

Environmental law

Environmental ethics

A combination of external assessment and and individual investigation

5 x Grade 4-9 including Maths & English at Grade 5. A good attendance and behaviour record is also essential

This qualification can lead to progression to a wide range of scientific and medical focused degrees such as:

BSc (Hons) Ecology

BSc(Hons) Environmental Science

BSc (Hons) Marine Biology

BSc (Hons) Environmental Health

BSc (Hons) Geography

BSc (Hons) Anthropology

BA (Hons) Politics

BSc (Hons) Forensic Science

STEM careers are a growth area and there will be lots of opportunities in a wide range of fields from environmental protection to working with communities at home and abroad,, research to teaching as well as many more. Science qualifications are valued by employees because that demonstrate a wide range of transferable skills such as being analytical, logical and abe to solve problems by applying knowledge to new situations.