Now a Candidate School for the IB Diploma Programme 

A bold step forward for Senior School at Beech Hall Riyadh 

Beech Hall School Riyadh is proud to be a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP), a globally respected qualification for students aged 16–19. 

Our first IB cohort will begin in August 2026, offering students in Grade 11 (Year 12) the opportunity to follow a truly international curriculum pathway that opens doors to leading universities and colleges across the UK, Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.  

With global recognition and a reputation for nurturing independent thinkers, the IB Diploma is one of the most valued qualifications for university entry worldwide.

What makes the IB at Beech Hall Riyadh different? 

We’re not just introducing a programme. We’re curating a transformational experience. 

At Beech Hall Riyadh, we believe learning should be personal, purposeful, and deeply engaging. The IB Diploma Programme reflects this ethos with a pedagogical approach that is holistic, inquiry-driven, and focused on real-world understanding. 

From Grade 11, students and families will work closely with our academic team to shape a tailored IB pathway. Students select six subjects from across disciplines, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level, while also engaging in the IB Core, which fosters critical thinking, global understanding, and personal growth. 

Whether your child is aiming for medicine, art, engineering, or business, the IB offers the flexibility and academic strength to match their ambitions. It prepares them not only for university but for life in an ever-changing global landscape. 

A rigorous, human-centred curriculum designed for tomorrow 

The IB DP is renowned for its academic depth, but also for its humanity. 

At BHSR, our students will explore a balanced curriculum structured around six subject groups: 

• Studies in Language and Literature 

• Language Acquisition 

• Individuals and Societies 

• Sciences 

• Mathematics 

• The Arts or a second subject from the above 

Each subject is assessed through a combination of internal coursework (20 to 30 percent) and externally marked final examinations (70 to 80 percent). This robust structure values both continuous effort and final achievement. 

The IB Core is what sets this qualification apart: 

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Encouraging students to question the nature of knowledge itself. 

• Extended Essay: A 4,000-word independent research project. 

• Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Personal development through community action, creativity, and wellbeing. 

This core perfectly reflects our wider school values. It nurtures students who are reflective, principled, open-minded, and ready to shape the future. 

Built with care. Delivered with ambition. 

Our IB programme is being carefully crafted under the leadership of Mr Chris Parfitt, whose deep experience in holistic international education ensures that every element reflects our school’s values and aspirations. 

“The IB DP isn’t just a qualification. It’s a mindset. One that builds confidence, depth, and a powerful sense of purpose.” 
– Mr Chris Parfitt, IB Diploma Programme Lead 

We’re investing in teacher development, building strong academic support systems, and fostering a culture of high expectations and personal care. 

Senior School at Beech Hall Riyadh: Reimagined 

The introduction of the IB marks a bold reimagining of Senior School at BHSR. This is not just a new programme. It is a reflection of our identity: globally minded, future-focused, and personally ambitious. 

At Beech Hall, education is for everyone. That means: 

• Stretching high-achieving students with challenge and opportunity 

• Supporting every learner with care, insight, and expert guidance 

• Drawing on the Saudi Vision 2030 by nurturing innovation, enterprise, and cultural pride 

Whether your child is Saudi or an expatriate, they will graduate prepared to lead, adapt, and thrive in a global future. They will be rooted in their values, but open to the world. 

Explore what’s possible 

We’d love to welcome you to our vibrant, diverse campus and show you how we’re redefining senior learning in Riyadh. 

📅 Book a private tour using the form below and discover how the IB Diploma Programme at BHSR could shape your child’s future.