Nairobi Waldorf School Trust – Karen Campus

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) is one of the world’s most respected pre-university qualifications, preparing students aged 16–19 for higher education and life beyond school. At Nairobi Waldorf School Trust, the IB DP complements our Waldorf philosophy, offering an education that develops intellectual rigour, creativity, and global awareness while nurturing the whole human being.

We are proud to offer the IB DP at our Karen Campus, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds who wish to pursue a pathway that is both academically challenging and personally meaningful.

Programme Overview – What is the IB DP?

The IB DP is a two-year pre-university course administered by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), based in Switzerland and recognized worldwide. Over 3,700 schools in more than 140 countries offer the IB DP to over one million students, making it a truly global qualification.

The IB DP is unique because it balances academic breadth with depth, requiring students to study a range of subjects while also completing the Core:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – critical thinking about knowledge itself.
• Extended Essay (EE) – a 4,000-word independent research project.
• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) – community engagement and personal growth.

Together, these ensure that IB graduates are not only knowledgeable but also reflective, principled, and socially responsible.

Entry Requirements

Admission into the IB DP at Nairobi Waldorf School Trust requires:

• KCSE: At least B– in intended Higher Level (HL) subjects and C+ in Standard Level (SL) subjects.
• IGCSE/GCE: At least a grade B across subjects.
• Mathematics/Physics HL: An A* (IGCSE) or A (KCSE) is required due to the rigour of these subjects.

The IB DP is suited for hardworking, motivated students who are curious, independent, and open to challenge.

What Students Study – The Curriculum

IB DP students must take six subjects chosen from the following groups:

1. Studies in Language and Literature – English A: Language and Literature
2. Language Acquisition – French B, Swahili B, or French Ab Initio
3. Individuals and Societies – Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS), History, Geography, Business Management
4. Sciences – Chemistry, Biology, Physics, ESS
5. Mathematics – Analysis and Approaches, or Applications and Interpretation
6. The Arts – Visual Arts or Music

Key points for parents:

• Students take three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL) depending on ability and career goals.
• Group 6 (Arts) is optional; students may instead take an additional subject from Group 3 or 4.
• ESS may count as either a Group 3 (humanities) or Group 4 (science) subject.

Alongside these six subjects, students must complete the Core:

• TOK – develops critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
• EE – builds research, writing, and academic independence.
• CAS – ensures balance through creativity, physical activity, and community service.

Learning Experience at Nairobi Waldorf

The IB DP at Nairobi Waldorf is taught in a way that reflects our values of head, heart, and hands. Students are guided to think critically, act responsibly, and grow holistically.

• Academic Growth: Rigorous preparation for university-level study.
• Personal Growth: Emphasis on resilience, reflection, and balanced living.
• Social Growth: Community projects and CAS activities that connect learning to real life.

Our supportive faculty provide mentorship, while small class sizes ensure that every student receives individualized attention.

Assessment and Grading

• Each subject is graded on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest).
• Students may earn up to 3 additional points through their TOK and EE performance.
• The maximum score is 45 points.
• A total of 24 points (with certain conditions) is required to earn the IB Diploma.
• Assessment includes both internal assessment (by teachers, moderated internationally) and external examinations set by the IB.

Why Choose the IB DP at Nairobi Waldorf?

• Global Recognition: Accepted by universities worldwide, including in Kenya.
• Holistic Education: A perfect complement to Waldorf’s emphasis on human development.
• Balanced Approach: Combines academic excellence with creativity, service, and personal growth.
• Individual Guidance: Students are supported by dedicated mentors and teachers.
• Preparation for Life: Graduates leave with resilience, critical thinking, and an international outlook.

Progression and Pathways

IB graduates are highly sought after by universities worldwide because they demonstrate not only academic achievement but also initiative, leadership, and social responsibility.

• The IB Diploma is recognized globally and respected by universities because of its academic rigor and the skills it cultivates (research, critical thinking, leadership, social responsibility).
• In Kenya, universities do accept the IB, but usually after an equivalency process where it’s treated as an international qualification comparable to the KCSE.
• Abroad, IB graduates are indeed admitted to top universities in the UK, US, Canada, Europe, Asia, and beyond — provided their IB subject choices and grades meet entry requirements.

IB DP – Kenya Equivalence Guide

IB DP Qualification	International Equivalence	Kenya Equivalence	Notes for Parents
Full IB Diploma (6 subjects + TOK, EE, CAS)	Equivalent to A-levels	Equivalent to KCSE mean grade C+ and above (university entry)	Meets KUCCPS/university entry requirements (subject to Senate approval).
IB Higher Level (HL) Subject	Comparable to A-level subject	Comparable to KCSE subject at B and above	Universities often look closely at HL subject results.
IB Standard Level (SL) Subject	Comparable to AS-level	Comparable to KCSE subject at C+/B–	Complements HLs for a balanced profile.
Core (TOK, EE, CAS)	Unique to IB	No KCSE equivalent	Strengthens university applications by showing research, service, and critical thinking.

 

Parent Information

• Expectations: The IB DP is rigorous. Students must balance study, projects, and CAS activities. Parental encouragement and time management are crucial.
• Communication: Parents are kept informed through regular reports, parent-teacher meetings, and direct contact with faculty.
• Support Systems: Students receive academic mentorship, personal guidance, and access to counseling if needed.

Closing Note

The IB Diploma Programme is demanding, but with commitment and support, it is an extraordinary journey of growth. At Nairobi Waldorf School Trust, we guide students not just to achieve academic success but also to develop into thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate adults ready to contribute to the world.

We warmly invite you to speak with our faculty or admissions team if you wish to learn more about the IB DP at Nairobi Waldorf.