A UWC Education

A Rigorous and Innovative Programme

In eleven United World Colleges (UWC), the academic curriculum centres on the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB), a qualification recognised throughout the world for its high standards. Atlantic College was a pioneer of the IB and UWC remains an innovative force within the programme. Students take three subjects at higher level and three at subsidiary level along with three other distinctive elements: a Theory of Knowledge course which encourages reflection on the nature of knowledge, a 4,000 word research essay and Creativity, Action, Service, which stresses the importance of life beyond the academic curriculum. The IB blends the specialisation preferred in some national education systems with the breadth of others; as such, it is one of the most well regarded university entrance qualifications in the world. It is a common occurrence for a very high proportion of IB graduates to enter into some of the most highly regarded universities in the world on full scholarships.

Community Service

Community or social service plays a vital role at every United World College. It enables students to learn about themselves and develop a sense of responsibility – for the world around them and those in need. Community service is tailored to local need: for example, students at Atlantic College operate lifeboat and cliff rescue services; at Mahindra UWC of India, students work to alleviate some of the worst effects of appalling poverty and illiteracy; and Simon Bolivar UWC’s rural development projects have served as a model for programmes throughout Venezuela. The Colleges also operate environmental monitoring schemes, work with the disabled and elderly and run projects in partnership with schools, community groups and healthcare providers.

Shared experiences

International understanding is not only the product of living and working together. Cultural activities are an important part of college life: art, crafts, music, drama, national customs, even food highlight the international dimension and students frequently host events devoted to their cultures. They therefore develop an international appreciation which is firmly grounded in their own national identities. There is always a particular focus on the host region – so, at the Red Cross Nordic UWC there is an innovative programme of Nordic Studies, while at the UWC of the American West all students follow a course in Southwest Studies. Wide-ranging and challenging outdoor activities – also an important part of UWC – provide further opportunities for shared experiences.

Conflict resolution – in theory and practice – takes on a special dimension when students who have experienced conflict at first hand represent the various parties. Conflict resolution activities are a formal part of the programme.