IGCSE
At Braeburn Mombasa International School (BMIS), we offer the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), one of the world's most respected qualifications for pupils aged 14 to 16. As an accredited Cambridge International Education Centre, we prepare every student to excel in their examinations while developing into confident, curious and capable global citizens.
What Is the IGCSE?
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is a globally recognised qualification developed by Cambridge International Education. It is studied by pupils in over 160 countries and is widely accepted as evidence of academic achievement for university entry and further study across the world, including in Kenya, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada, and beyond.
The IGCSE is taken at the end of Key Stage 4, typically in Years 10 and 11 (ages 14–16). Pupils study a broad range of subjects, developing subject knowledge alongside critical thinking, research skills and independent learning, qualities that serve them well throughout their academic and professional lives.
At Braeburn Mombasa International School (BMIS), we follow the National Curriculum of England and Wales as our foundational framework, with IGCSE examinations set and marked by Cambridge International Education. This ensures that our pupils receive an education that is both internationally recognised and rigorously assessed.
Our Approach to IGCSE
Our motto, Summum Appeto, meaning “seeking the top”, defines everything we do at Braeburn Mombasa International School (BMIS). In our secondary school, this spirit comes to life through specialist teaching, class sizes that allow for personalised learning and individual attention, and a culture of high expectations paired with genuine pastoral care.
From Year 9, pupils are thoughtfully guided through their IGCSE subject choices, with the syllabus introduced progressively so that students enter Years 10 and 11 with confidence and a clear sense of direction. Each pupil takes up to nine IGCSE subjects, with Mathematics, English Language, English Literature and at least one Science required for all.
While providing a strong and structured academic foundation, the programme also offers flexibility to accommodate individual strengths, interests and aspirations. Pupils who are fluent in languages such as French or Kiswahili may have the opportunity to sit IGCSE examinations early, while students who speak other languages can be supported in pursuing additional language qualifications. Highly motivated learners with strong independent study skills may also be able to undertake additional IGCSE subjects beyond the standard programme, supported by appropriate resources and guidance. This personalised approach ensures that each student can follow a pathway that reflects their abilities, interests and future ambitions.
Class sizes at BMIS allow for exceptional teacher-to-pupil contact time. Pupils are never lost in a crowd. Specialist teachers guide them through critical thinking and personal evaluation of their own learning, making the IGCSE experience both challenging and deeply rewarding.
IGCSE Subjects at Braeburn Mombasa
We offer a broad and balanced selection of 15 IGCSE subjects across the sciences, humanities, languages and the arts.
Core & Compulsory Subjects
English Language
English Literature
Mathematics
Biology, Chemistry or Physics (at least one Science is compulsory)
Optional Subjects
- Art and Design (Pearson BTEC Level 2 – equivalent to IGCSE)
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- French
- Kiswahili
- Geography
- History
- Music
- Physical Education
- Physics
- Sociology
- Drama
Mother Tongue Language (examined but not taught and available for eligible pupils)
Braeburn Mombasa International School is a Pearson-accredited centre for BTEC Level 2 Art and Design (equivalent to IGCSE) and BTEC Level 3 qualifications in Art and Design, Sport and Business Studies (equivalent to A Levels), offering students additional pathways to develop their talents and prepare for future study.
Students study English for five hours per week, Mathematics for four hours, and all other option subjects for three hours per week, ensuring thorough preparation across their chosen subjects.
Cambridge Accredited
Braeburn Mombasa International School is an officially accredited Cambridge International Education centre, delivering IGCSE and other Cambridge qualifications to the highest standard.
Our examination results reflect the positive learning culture we have built over more than two decades in Mombasa. We take great pride in the achievements of every pupil, from those who excel across nine subjects to those who discover a particular passion and achieve outstanding results in the areas where they shine.
Braeburn Mombasa International School pupils have earned multiple Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards in Kenya at IGCSE level, one of the most prestigious individual recognitions presented by Cambridge International Education. These awards acknowledge pupils who have achieved among the highest marks in Kenya and, in some cases, worldwide. They stand as a testament to the quality of teaching and the determination of our students.
At Braeburn Mombasa International School (BMIS), we are a Pearson BTEC Centre, offering vocational qualifications at both Level 2 and Level 3. Our Level 2 BTEC programmes are broadly equivalent to IGCSE, while our Level 3 BTEC Diploma qualifications are equivalent in academic standard to two A Levels. This vocational pathway provides strong progression opportunities for university placement both in Kenya and internationally, and reflects our commitment to recognising and developing all forms of talent. BMIS is among the few schools in Mombasa offering BTEC qualifications at Level 3.
At BMIS, we firmly believe that an excellent education extends well beyond the examination hall. During the IGCSE years, pupils continue to participate fully in the life of the school, and this broader experience is central to who we are.
What Comes Next? Progression to Sixth Form
The IGCSE is the stepping stone to our thriving Sixth Form, where pupils pursue Cambridge International A Levels and BTEC qualifications. Braeburn Mombasa International School (BMIS) Sixth Formers go on to universities across the world, including institutions in Kenya, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada and Europe, including leading business schools, grandes écoles and universities in France, Germany, Spain and Switzerland.
Strong IGCSE results at BMIS open pathways to our own Sixth Form as well as leading schools and colleges internationally. Our experienced team works closely with pupils and their families from Year 9 onwards to guide informed and confident pathway choices.
