Exams for all abilities

A misconception we often face is that the IB Diploma Programme is only for the most academically able students; in short, an "elite" qualification to stretch the brightest. Having offered the IB Diploma for almost 30 years, we know that it is a qualification which recognises a full range of abilities. We were therefore very pleased to see our opinion reflected in a letter in The Telegraph newspaper this week.

SIR - Your report (January 24) about Charterhouse's decision to offer the International Baccalaureate adds to the impression that the IB is an elite qualification for top-stream pupils.

While it is true that top grades in IB examinations allow universities to recognise the very highest achievers, the IB organisation itself sees the diploma as an accessible and inclusive qualification, not an intellectually exclusive one.

Although concerns about the "dumbing down" of A-levels have been part of our discussions, our decision to adopt the IB has been inspired as much by the opportunities the diploma offers across the range of academic ability.

All pupils can emerge with their university opportunities greatly enhanced.

Paul Mitchell
Headmaster, Cobham Hall, Kent