Post-Event Summary: Unlocking the Power of Cambridge International Qualifications

On 27 June, the team at Acumen hosted the “From Cambridge to Campus: Unlocking the Power of Cambridge International Qualifications” virtual event. The session, moderated by Amrita Ghulati, Director of School Engagement and Partnership at Acumen featured notable speakers such as Shamim Chowdhury, Regional Manager for Recognition and Policy in South Asia for Cambridge International Education, and Rakhi Mukherjee, principal at Utpal Shanghvi Global School, with extensive experience in implementing Cambridge curricula. 

Although the event was victim to technical gremlins and are unable to share the session on-demand, we’ve compiled key takeaways and highlights for our colleagues in international education. 

Session Overview

This event highlighted the Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum framework and its credential qualifications. Those who attended gained a deeper understanding of the nuances of the curriculum, its implementation in schools, the growth and pattern of Cambridge Assessment in South Asia, and the preparedness of Cambridge students for international university experiences and success.

Notable Nuggets:

1. Introduction to Cambridge International Education:
   • Cambridge International Education, part of the prestigious University of Cambridge, offers a globally recognised curriculum. With a history dating back to pre-independence India, Cambridge has a robust presence with over 600 schools in India and 10,000 schools worldwide.
2. Cambridge Curriculum and its Impact:
   • The Cambridge curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and creativity among students. It emphasises real-world applications, interdisciplinary approaches, and student-centred learning.
3. Details of Cambridge Assessment Qualification:
   • The Cambridge Assessment International Education curriculum is known for its rigour and flexibility. Students can choose from a wide range of subject combinations tailored to their interests and career aspirations. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on skill development and real-world application of knowledge. Assessment styles are varied, including written exams, practical tests, and coursework, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of student capabilities.
4. Structure of Cambridge Qualifications:
   • Cambridge Advanced qualifications are split into the Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS Level) and the Advanced Level (A Level). AS Level is a one-year programme, while A Level is completed over two years. Students typically take three A Level subjects, though many take additional subjects.
5. Grading System:
   • Cambridge uses an alphabetical grading system from A* (highest) to E for A Levels. AS Levels are graded from A to E. In India, students also receive a percentage mark alongside their letter grades.
6. University Recognition and Credit Transfer:
   • Cambridge qualifications are widely recognised by universities globally, including the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US. The session emphasised the importance of having a clear admissions policy for Cambridge students to facilitate their university applications. Additionally, there is a mechanism for credit transfer where AS Level courses can sometimes be counted towards university credits, particularly in Canada and the US.
7. Expansion of Cambridge International Education in South Asia:
   • The growth of Cambridge International Education in South Asia presents significant opportunities. The maximum growth of Cambridge schools is in tier-two and tier-three cities, creating a burgeoning market for universities to tap into. Schools in these regions are increasingly adopting the Cambridge curriculum, preparing students for a global academic environment.
8. Student Success Stories:
   • Rakhi Mukherjee shared inspiring success stories of her students, highlighting the global recognition and opportunities Cambridge qualifications provide. Students from her school have received offers from prestigious universities worldwide, including Oxford, UCLA, and MIT, often with substantial scholarships.

Must-Know Points for Universities:

1. Engaging with Schools:
   • Universities should invest in reaching out to schools, especially in tier-two and tier-three cities, to raise awareness about their admission processes and the value of Cambridge qualifications.
2. Supporting Profile Building:
   • Universities need to guide schools on genuine profile-building activities, emphasising the importance of developing unique skills and interests that align with the student strengths and aspirations.
3. Providing Resources and Opportunities:
   • Offering internships, summer school programmes, and mentorship opportunities can significantly enhance students’ readiness for university life. Sponsoring deserving students for summer schools or other enrichment programmes can also be a valuable initiative.
4. Tailoring Communication:
   • Admission officers should tailor their communication to address the specific needs and circumstances of schools in different regions, ensuring clarity on the application process and the support available to students.

Final Thoughts:

The event underscored the transformative potential of Cambridge International Qualifications in shaping well-rounded, globally competent students. By fostering closer collaboration between universities and schools, we can unlock new opportunities for students and ensure they are well-prepared for their academic and professional journeys.

“Cambridge qualifications open doors to a myriad of opportunities for students. By understanding and leveraging the unique strengths of these qualifications, universities can attract highly skilled and motivated students,” —Amrita Ghulati, Director of School Engagement and Partnerships

We thank all attendees for their participation and look forward to continued collaboration to enhance the educational landscape.

For universities interested in collaborating and learning more about engaging with Cambridge schools, please contact Amrita Ghulati for further information and to explore opportunities for partnership.