Year 9: The transformational year that shapes the path to IGCSEs and beyond

The IGCSE is a globally recognised international curriculum based on the British GCSE framework, offering both academic depth and flexibility. Students in years 10-11 specialise in four optional subjects, in addition to the compulsory core: English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Co-ordinated Science, and Vietnamese (for Vietnamese passport holders), as well as non-IGCSE subjects such as PE and Wellbeing, ensuring a balanced, holistic approach to learning. With over 17 subject options on offer, from Business and Design Technology to Music, Computer Science, and Economics, students have the opportunity to shape a curriculum that reflects their strengths, passions, and future goals.

What followed for our Year 9s was a transformational year of outstanding experiences that led to immense growth in confidence, resilience, independence and leadership skills, which set them up for success as they prepare to enter Year 10.


Developing Communication Skills and Confidence in Year 9

As students prepare for the IGCSE years, they begin to step into more and more leadership roles, sharing their knowledge, mentoring younger peers, and presenting with purpose. At BIS HCMC, we place great value on collaboration across year groups and campuses. These shared experiences are a vital part of our learning culture, where students learn from one another and grow through community. From cross-campus musical performances to peer-led science lessons, these experiences showcase the strength and support of our close-knit learning community and help young leaders build confidence in authentic ways.

This was seen at the Carnegie Exhibition, towards the end of the year, where Year 9 students confidently presented their literary reflections to an audience of Year 8s. Earlier in the year, our KS3 Science Leaders worked with local students from Tran Quoc Toan school through our annual Shoestring Science project, creating and delivering engaging lessons on topics like diffusion, friction, and rates of reaction. These moments of connection help students build confidence while developing empathy and communication skills.

These experiences form the foundation for IGCSE-ready skills, especially in subjects like IGCSE PE, where Year 10 students become coaches, designing and leading lessons for Year 2 students. Communication in these moments becomes a tool for clarity, influence, and meaningful learning.

Real-World Experiences That Build Skills

Through immersive experiences like Week Without Walls and Expeditions, students not only build resilience but also begin to understand what learning looks like beyond the classroom. These moments offer a glimpse into the real world, where collaboration, creativity, and contribution matter.

The Year 9 Hoi An trip is one powerful example. Tu Anh and Olivia from our 2024–25 cohort reflected on the experience:

“Our adventure took us deep into the rural communities of Hoi An. Under the blazing sun, we dug, planted herbs, and toiled with determination. Despite the physical challenge, we supported one another and embraced the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. Later, we traded shovels for spatulas, joining in a cooking class where we crafted the delicate Vietnamese pancake Bánh Xèo and enjoyed a feast of nine traditional dishes. Through sweat and smiles, students learned that kindness and effort always come full circle.”

Experiences like this build more than memories; they develop the mindset students need as they move into the IGCSE programme. They learn to connect effort with outcome, and to find relevance in their learning, both key elements of IGCSE success.

From sizzling Banh Xeo to sizzling Fajitas in Spanish class - real-world applications are just as present inside the classroom. In Year 9 Spanish, students brought language to life through cooking, connection, and culture:

 “Instead of just learning vocabulary from a book, we actually used it in a real setting. At the end, we all sat down and enjoyed the food we made together. It felt great to make something from scratch and use Spanish in a meaningful way. This activity made learning Spanish easier and more fun, it was honestly one of the best days we've had in Spanish class!” shared the Year 9 Spanish Class.

As our students move into Year 10, they do so with more than just subject choices; they carry with them the experiences, confidence, and clarity that only a year like this can bring. Year 9 is where they begin to lead, where they test ideas in real-world settings, and where they learn who they are as learners. It is the year that transforms curiosity into direction. To our soon-to-be Year 10s: we are proud of how far you’ve come and excited for all that’s ahead. 

At BIS HCMC, Year 9 is a pivotal transition year, bridging exploration in Key Stage 3 with the focus and rigour of the IGCSE programme. It’s the point where students personalise their learning journey, making key subject choices, developing essential skills, and gaining real-world experience that lays the foundation for future academic success and lifelong growth.

Learn more about the IGCSE pathway and how Year 9 sets the foundation for future success.  Enquire now about entry into this key transitional year.