Checkpoint (12-13 years)
Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Checkpoint builds on the primary stage, and develops children’s knowledge and skills in Mathematics, English and Science.
It offers schools:
- a means of tracking student progress through the lower secondary phase
- an integrated package of teaching, learning and assessment materials.
Checkpoint tests are for use at the end of Grade 8. They are marked by Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and provide schools with an external international benchmark for student performance.
Checkpoint enables feedback to be provided on a learner's strengths and weaknesses in key curriculum areas. Feedback of this kind is an invaluable source of information. Schools and colleges will be able to make strategic decisions, drawing upon a pool of information and specialist reporting tools built into Checkpoint.
Checkpoint tests can be offered at two sessions during the year. The tests cover all major areas of learning required in the first years of an international secondary education. Learners receive a Statement of Achievement, which gives an indication of their academic progress during this education stage.
Pre-IGCSE (14-15 years)
This is the transitional scheme.
Progression to the secondary stage requires passes in five “Core” level subjects: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics at grade C–G, where C grade is the highest grade and G is the lowest pass grade.
Tests are standardised, set and marked by Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), to provide an international benchmark of student achievement enabling teachers to advise learners and parents of the suitability of different progression routes.
Using the Lower Secondary Programme alongside the local curriculum
Schools can use the Cambridge (CIE) Secondary Programme with other curricula, so schools and teachers can use the materials to suit their own situation.
Schools and teachers can continue to follow a local curriculum, to meet the statutory requirements of their national system – and at the same time, use the Cambridge tests to enhance their teaching and reporting.