IBDP, A Levels & Spanish Baccalaureate

The Pre-University stage at TEMS is characterised by a unique blend of academic excellence and holistic personal development. At its core is the Montessori philosophy, which emphasises independence, self-direction, critical thinking, and respect for the individual. This philosophy, when applied at the pre-university level, creates a nurturing and empowering environment where students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and develop into confident, caring, and independent individuals.

A key feature of Pre-University at TEMS is the offer of three distinct academic pathways: the Spanish Bachillerato, A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). These internationally respected programmes allow students to tailor their academic journey according to their strengths, interests, and future aspirations.

• The Spanish Bachillerato offers a strong, structured foundation rooted in national standards, preparing students for Spanish universities and beyond.
• A Levels provide a flexible, subject-specific focus, ideal for students who wish to specialise early and excel in particular disciplines.
• The IBDP delivers a broad, rigorous curriculum with an emphasis on global-mindedness, inquiry-based learning, and the development of well-rounded individuals.

Combined with the Montessori approach, these programmes do more than just prepare students academically. They foster qualities such as emotional intelligence, social responsibility, and self-motivation.

TEMS students graduate not only with excellent academic credentials but also with the confidence, curiosity, and compassion to thrive in top universities and beyond.

The Spanish Bachillerato at TEMS is a two-year pre-university programme for students aged 16 to 18, offered in two tracks: Science & Technology or Humanities & Social Sciences.

All students study core subjects such as Spanish Language, Philosophy, English, and Physical Education. Depending on their chosen track, they take specialised subjects—like Maths, Physics, and Chemistry for Science, or Economics, Latin, and Applied Maths for Humanities—plus one elective (e.g., French, Computer Science, or World Literature).

TEMS combines academic excellence with a student-centred Montessori philosophy, experienced teachers, and high-level language instruction (C1/C2 English and Delf-certified French).

A Levels represent the final two years of secondary education in the British educational system, typically undertaken between the ages of 16 and 18. This stage is equivalent to the Bachillerato in the Spanish system and serves as a crucial bridge between school and university.

Students usually choose three to four subjects to study over the two-year period, allowing them to specialise in the areas that best align with their academic strengths and future aspirations. This focused approach provides an opportunity for in-depth exploration and mastery of content, encouraging analytical thinking, independent research, and strong subject-specific knowledge.

At the end of these two years, students sit for recognised examinations in each of their chosen subjects. These results are a key part of the university admissions process, particularly in the UK, but A Levels are also widely accepted by universities around the world, including top institutions across Europe and the US.

The IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme) is a globally recognised two-year academic programme designed for students aged 16 to 18. Respected by top universities worldwide, it prepares students for success at university and in their future careers by developing strong academic, research, and critical thinking skills.

Students study six subjects across a broad range of disciplines: a first language (Language A), a second language (Language B), individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and either an arts subject or an additional course from the other groups. Three subjects are taken at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).

In addition to those six chosen subjects, the IBDP includes three core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which explores how we know what we know; Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS), which encourages personal growth through extracurricular experiences; and the Extended Essay (EE), a 4,000-word independent research project.

We provide comprehensive and personalised university guidance designed to support each student in achieving their unique academic and career aspirations.

This begins with one-on-one counselling, where students receive tailored advice to help them identify their strengths, interests, and the university pathways that best align with their goals—whether that’s applying to top universities in Spain, the UK, the US, or other international destinations.

Our dedicated team offers extensive preparation for university entrance exams, including support for exams ensuring students are confident and well-prepared for the specific requirements of their chosen institutions.

In addition, we guide students through every stage of the university application process, from researching courses and preparing personal statements to gathering recommendation letters and meeting key deadlines.

Throughout this journey, our goal is to empower students to make informed decisions, present themselves with clarity and confidence, and ultimately secure places at top universities worldwide.

We offer a wide range of enriching activities such as debates, volunteer projects, academic clubs, and sports teams, all of which play a vital role in fostering the holistic development of our students. These activities go beyond the classroom, encouraging students to explore their passions, develop new skills, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Debates help students refine their public speaking, critical thinking, and analytical skills, while also nurturing confidence and the ability to respectfully consider different viewpoints. Volunteer projects instil a strong sense of empathy, social responsibility, and global citizenship, encouraging students to make a positive impact in their communities.

Academic clubs offer opportunities for deeper exploration allowing students to pursue intellectual interests and collaborate with peers who share similar passions. Meanwhile, sports clubs promote physical well-being, teamwork, discipline, and resilience—essential qualities for personal growth and long-term success.

Together, these extracurricular experiences complement our academic pathways, supporting the development of well-rounded, socially conscious, and self-assured individuals.