Rather than prescribing one fixed programme for every school, Cambridge provides a flexible pathway that schools can adapt to their setting. Schools may offer the complete Cambridge Pathway, select particular stages or subjects, or combine Cambridge courses with a provincial curriculum. In Canada, students may therefore work toward provincial graduation requirements while also completing Cambridge courses and qualifications.
The Cambridge Pathway
The Cambridge Pathway is organized into five stages:
- Cambridge Early Years, typically for children ages 3 to 6
- Cambridge Primary, typically for students ages 5 to 11
- Cambridge Lower Secondary, typically for students ages 11 to 14
- Cambridge Upper Secondary, typically for students ages 14 to 16 and including Cambridge IGCSE
- Cambridge Advanced, typically for students ages 16 to 19 and including Cambridge International AS & A Levels
At the primary and lower-secondary levels, schools can choose from subjects including English, mathematics, science, computing, art and design, music, physical education, and global perspectives. Optional Cambridge Checkpoint assessments help schools measure student progress against international standards.
At the upper-secondary level, Cambridge IGCSE offers a wide selection of subjects. Assessment may include written examinations, oral work, coursework, and practical components, depending on the subject. International AS & A Levels allow older students to study selected subjects in greater depth and are widely recognized by universities internationally.
Because the pathway is flexible, the experience can differ considerably between schools. At a particular Toronto school, Cambridge studies begin in the early grades and continue through secondary school. In Grades 9 to 12, the Ontario Secondary School Diploma remains the foundation, while students may also pursue Cambridge IGCSE and A Level courses.
Cambridge school registration
Schools must apply to become registered Cambridge International Schools. The process includes an application, an approval visit, and an assessment of the school’s leadership, teaching, facilities, student support, legal compliance, and ability to administer Cambridge examinations securely. Cambridge may also conduct subsequent reapproval visits.
Registration does not necessarily mean that a school offers every stage of the Cambridge Pathway. Families should confirm which programmes, subjects, assessments, and qualifications are available at each school.
Benefits of the Cambridge curriculum
Families may be drawn to the Cambridge curriculum for its:
- Internationally recognized qualifications
- Strong academic foundations
- Emphasis on reasoning and independent learning
- Flexibility across subjects and educational systems
- Clear progression from the early years through secondary school
- Preparation for Canadian and international universities
University recognition and advanced-standing policies vary by institution, faculty, subject, and examination result. Families should consult individual universities about admission requirements and possible transfer credit.
Questions to ask Cambridge schools
- Which Cambridge programmes and subjects does the school offer?
- Is the school currently registered with Cambridge International Education?
- Are Cambridge courses required or optional?
- How are Cambridge courses combined with provincial requirements?
- Which Cambridge examinations do students complete?
- Are there additional programme or examination fees?
