English 
- BAC • French Baccalaureate
- BFI • French International Baccalaureate
- IB • International Baccalaureate
A unique aspect of French education
The Baccalaureate Diploma - BAC
The French Baccalaureate, the BAC, is an internationally recognised diploma which is often considered a reference when evaluating general cultural knowledge, critical thinking and academic progress. Indeed, the BAC is an all-encompassing, adaptable and demanding pre-university programme. The BAC is a two-year program in which written and oral exam results account for 60% of the final grade, and continuous, in-class evaluation accounts for the remaining 40%. The BAC is:
- All-encompassing because it includes humanities studies (literature, philosophy, foreign languages), science, sport, and a wide choice of elective subjects in the fields of science and mathematics, social sciences or language and literature.
- Adaptable as it offers students the possibility to choose their own elective subjects as of year 11. For example, a student in year 11 could decide to discontinue studying mathematics while another, through his or her electives and options, could choose to study up to 9 hours of mathematics per week.
- Demanding as students are expected to be able acquire, organise and express in-depth knowledge in order to develop their critical thinking skills which is necessary as they become informed and active citizens of society.
The French Baccalaureate Structure
Common foundations
| General Subjects - Weekly Tuition Hours | Year 11 | Year 12 |
|---|---|---|
| French | 4h | - |
| Philosophy | - | 4h |
| History & Geography | 4h | 4h |
| Ethics & Citizenship | 0.5h | 0.5h |
| English | 3h | 3h |
| Modern Languages: Spanish, German or Mandarin | 2h | 2h |
| Mathematics | 1h30* | 1h30* |
| Science | 2h | 2h |
| Sports & Physical Education | 2h | 2h |
*Sauf pour les élèves de spécialité mathématiques /Except for students in the mathematics major
Specialties
Mathematics
The Mathematics elective allows students to explore and use mathematics as a tool in a number of areas, such as: algebra, geometry, analysis, statistics, algorithms and programming. The elective also includes the history of mathematics, which helps to identify the evolution of fundamental mathematical theories and broadens students’ understanding of the subject.
Economics & Social Sciences
The ESS elective aims to contribute to forming citizens of tomorrow who are interested in understanding the major economic, sociological and political issues of our society. The elective is aimed at all students who seek to acquire specific ESS knowledge and reasoning methods in order to better understand the debates taking place across the globe. It is particularly useful for high school students who intend to study degrees in which economic, sociological and political skills will be highly valued.
Physics & Chemistry
The ESS elective aims to contribute to forming citizens of tomorrow who are interested in understanding the major economic, sociological and political issues of our society. The elective is aimed at all students who seek to acquire specific ESS knowledge and reasoning methods in order to better understand the debates taking place across the globe. It is particularly useful for high school students who intend to study degrees in which economic, sociological and political skills will be highly valued.
Earth & Life Sciences
The Earth and Life Sciences elective explores the elements of planet earth and its environment, the human body and health, and natural evolution. The programme helps students to develop skills in observation, experimentation, model building, analysis and debate, all of which are essential for pursuing higher education or a career in these fields of study. This elective explores the following scientific subjects: life on Earth, biodiversity, evolution, ecosystems, ecology and history. It also allows students to gain a better understanding of how their own bodies function, combining scientific concepts with reflection on personal health, as well as ethics seen from a global point of view, studying both public health and the environment. This elective builds on the knowledge already acquired in physics, chemistry and mathematics.
History, Geography, Geopolitics & Political Science
This elective is adapted to high school students who are seeking to acquire knowledge and analytic methods specifically adapted to the following subjects: History, Geography, Geopolitics and Political Science. Students get the chance to develop their to deal with major issues of historical importance at national and international levels. This is particularly useful for high school students who are preparing for higher education studies in fields such as law, business, management or international relations, or for careers in fields such as civil and foreign service, international non-governmental organisations, journalism and business.
Humanities, Literature & Philosophy
This elective specifically aims to increase students’ exposure to English, to allow them to gradually achieve a confident command of the language and to understand the associated culture. The focus is placed on studying and using the language in different situations and through integration. It is envisaged in its articulation with the study of the literary and cultural objects concerned. The written and oral language is worked on in all its aspects (phonology, lexicon, grammar) and in all language activities (reception, production and interaction), so that pupils are trained to communicate and can deepen and nuance their knowledge and skills.
Foreign Languages, Literature & Culture
This elective specifically aims to increase students’ exposure to English, to allow them to gradually achieve a confident command of the language and to understand the associated culture. The focus is placed on studying and using the language in different situations and through integration. It is envisaged in its articulation with the study of the literary and cultural objects concerned. The written and oral language is worked on in all its aspects (phonology, lexicon, grammar) and in all language activities (reception, production and interaction), so that pupils are trained to communicate and can deepen and nuance their knowledge and skills.
Digital & Computer Sciences
The Digital and Computer Sciences elective aims to prepare students for tertiary studies by consolidating their basic computer science skills and knowledge. Students will be trained in scientific approaches and research activities, vital skills for those commencing university studies. This subject is taught via CNED, the National Centre for Distance Education, with the support of an LCS teacher.
| Weekly Tuition Hours | Y11 | Y12 |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 4h | 6h |
| Economics & Social Sciences | 4h | 6h |
| Physics & Chemistry | 4h | 6h |
| Sciences | 4h | 6h |
| History, Geography, Geopolitics & Political Science | 4h | 6h |
| Humanities, Literature & Philosophy | 4h | 6h |
| Digital & Computer Sciences | 4h | 6h |
| Foreign Languages, Literature & Culture | 4h | 6h |
Options
Additional Mathematics
The Additional Mathematics option is intended for students who have a strong interest in mathematics and who aim to apply for tertiary studies in fields where maths is predominant (scientific studies, engineering studies, computer science studies). It allows an in-depth approach to other areas than those studied in the mathematics elective.
Complementary Mathematics
The Complementary Mathematics option is for pupils who wish to continue studying extra maths in year 12 but not the Additional Mathematics option. This could concern students who need to place extra focus on mathematics as they intend to pursue tertiary studies in for example medicine, economics or social sciences. The Complementary Mathematics programme builds on the year 11 elective mathematics programme, which it consolidates and enriches with new mathematical knowledge and skills. This knowledge is also reinforced through putting concepts into practice in different situations and applied in various different fields.
Law & Major Contemporary Issues
The Law and Major Contemporary Issues option aims to broaden senior students’ knowledge and perspectives. Students will be introduced to the instruments of law – norms, institutions, professions -, its social role, and the methodology of legal reasoning. Starting with positive law and the way in which it helps to structure the major contemporary political, economic and social issues, students will address major themes of the contemporary world through a legal perspective. This option opens a pathway to law studies, political science institutes, but also to journalism and/or business schools.
Latin
The Ancient Language and Culture option presents ancient culture and literature as a reciprocal horizon to medieval, modern and contemporary culture and literature, with an aim to allow today’s children to understand their place in time and history. The curriculum has been designed so as to answer legitimate questions that students may ask today about themselves, about society, politics, the choices made by society, the world and other major contemporary issues.
| Weekly Tuition Hours | Y11 | Y12 |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Mathematics | - | 3 |
| Complementary Mathematics | - | 3 |
| Law & Major Contemporary Issues | - | 3 |
| Latin | 2 | 2 |
A unique aspect of French education
French Baccalaureate International Option
The international version of the French Baccalaureate Diploma is called the BFI, le Baccalauréat Français International. This diploma is an integrated Franco-British school-leaving certificate, combining the French Baccalaureate with extra subjects examined to English A-level standard studied over the course of two years. Students are assessed through two specific tests: Language and Literature, and History and Geography. There is one oral and one written examination for each subject. These assessments are carried out in the language of the specific section, in this case English as it is the Extended British Programme. This programme is widely reputed around Europe for its emphasis on the English language and British culture, history and geography.
More information about the International Option of the French Baccalaureate is available on the French Ministry of Education and Youth website.
The International French Baccalaureate Structure
Common foundations
| General Subjects - Weekly Tuition Hours | Year 11 | Year 12 |
|---|---|---|
| French | 4h | - |
| Philosophy | - | 4h |
| History & Geography BFI | 2h FR + 2h EN | 2h FR + 2h EN |
| Ethics & Citizenship | 0.5h | 0.5h |
| English BFI | 4h | 4h |
| World Knowledge | 2h EN | 2h EN |
| Modern Languages: Spanish, German or Mandarin (in 2024) | 2h | 2h |
| Science | 2h | 2h |
| Mathematics | 1h30h* | 1h30h* |
| Sports & Physical Education | 2h | 2h |
*Sauf pour les élèves de spécialité mathématiques /Except for students in the mathematics major
Specialties
Mathematics
The Mathematics elective allows students to explore and use mathematics as a tool in a number of areas, such as: algebra, geometry, analysis, statistics, algorithms and programming. The elective also includes the history of mathematics, which helps to identify the evolution of fundamental mathematical theories and broadens students’ understanding of the subject.
Economics & Social Sciences
The ESS elective aims to contribute to forming citizens of tomorrow who are interested in understanding the major economic, sociological and political issues of our society. The elective is aimed at all students who seek to acquire specific ESS knowledge and reasoning methods in order to better understand the debates taking place across the globe. It is particularly useful for high school students who intend to study degrees in which economic, sociological and political skills will be highly valued.
Physics & Chemistry
The ESS elective aims to contribute to forming citizens of tomorrow who are interested in understanding the major economic, sociological and political issues of our society. The elective is aimed at all students who seek to acquire specific ESS knowledge and reasoning methods in order to better understand the debates taking place across the globe. It is particularly useful for high school students who intend to study degrees in which economic, sociological and political skills will be highly valued.
Earth & Life Sciences
The Earth and Life Sciences elective explores the elements of planet earth and its environment, the human body and health, and natural evolution. The programme helps students to develop skills in observation, experimentation, model building, analysis and debate, all of which are essential for pursuing higher education or a career in these fields of study. This elective explores the following scientific subjects: life on Earth, biodiversity, evolution, ecosystems, ecology and history. It also allows students to gain a better understanding of how their own bodies function, combining scientific concepts with reflection on personal health, as well as ethics seen from a global point of view, studying both public health and the environment. This elective builds on the knowledge already acquired in physics, chemistry and mathematics.
History, Geography, Geopolitics & Political Science
This elective is adapted to high school students who are seeking to acquire knowledge and analytic methods specifically adapted to the following subjects: History, Geography, Geopolitics and Political Science. Students get the chance to develop their to deal with major issues of historical importance at national and international levels. This is particularly useful for high school students who are preparing for higher education studies in fields such as law, business, management or international relations, or for careers in fields such as civil and foreign service, international non-governmental organisations, journalism and business.
Humanities, Literature & Philosophy
This elective specifically aims to increase students’ exposure to English, to allow them to gradually achieve a confident command of the language and to understand the associated culture. The focus is placed on studying and using the language in different situations and through integration. It is envisaged in its articulation with the study of the literary and cultural objects concerned. The written and oral language is worked on in all its aspects (phonology, lexicon, grammar) and in all language activities (reception, production and interaction), so that pupils are trained to communicate and can deepen and nuance their knowledge and skills.
Foreign Languages, Literature & Culture
This elective specifically aims to increase students’ exposure to English, to allow them to gradually achieve a confident command of the language and to understand the associated culture. The focus is placed on studying and using the language in different situations and through integration. It is envisaged in its articulation with the study of the literary and cultural objects concerned. The written and oral language is worked on in all its aspects (phonology, lexicon, grammar) and in all language activities (reception, production and interaction), so that pupils are trained to communicate and can deepen and nuance their knowledge and skills.
Digital & Computer Sciences
The Digital and Computer Sciences elective aims to prepare students for tertiary studies by consolidating their basic computer science skills and knowledge. Students will be trained in scientific approaches and research activities, vital skills for those commencing university studies. This subject is taught via CNED, the National Centre for Distance Education, with the support of an LCS teacher.
| Weekly Tuition Hours | Y11 | Y12 |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 4h or 4h+2h* | 6h or 4h+2h* |
| Economics & Social Sciences | 4h or 4h+2h* | 6h or 4h+2h* |
| Physics & Chemistry | 4h | 6h |
| Earth & Life Sciences | 4h | 6h |
| History, Geography, Geopolitics & Political Science | 4h | 6h |
| Humanities, Literature & Philosophy | 4h | 6h |
| Digital & Computer Sciences | 4h | 6h |
Options
Additional Mathematics
The Additional Mathematics option is intended for students who have a strong interest in mathematics and who aim to apply for tertiary studies in fields where maths is predominant (scientific studies, engineering studies, computer science studies). It allows an in-depth approach to other areas than those studied in the mathematics elective.
Complementary Mathematics
The Complementary Mathematics option is intended primarily for pupils who studied the Mathematics elective in year 11 and wish to continue studying extra maths in year 12 but not the Additional Mathematics option. This could concern students who need to place extra focus on mathematics as they intend to pursue tertiary studies in for example medicine, economics or social sciences. The Complementary Mathematics programme builds on the year 11 elective mathematics programme, which it consolidates and enriches with new mathematical knowledge and skills. This knowledge is also reinforced through putting concepts into practice in different situations and applied in various different fields.
Law & Major Contemporary Issues
The Law and Major Contemporary Issues option aims to broaden senior students’ knowledge and perspectives. Students will be introduced to the instruments of law – norms, institutions, professions -, its social role, and the methodology of legal reasoning. Starting with positive law and the way in which it helps to structure the major contemporary political, economic and social issues, students will address major themes of the contemporary world through a legal perspective. This option opens a pathway to law studies, political science institutes, but also to journalism and/or business schools.
Latin
The Ancient Language and Culture option presents ancient culture and literature as a reciprocal horizon to medieval, modern and contemporary culture and literature, with an aim to allow today’s children to understand their place in time and history. The curriculum has been designed so as to answer legitimate questions that students may ask today about themselves, about society, politics, the choices made by society, the world and other major contemporary issues.
| Weekly Tuition Hours | Y11 | Y12 |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Mathematics | - | 3 |
| Complementary Mathematics | - | 3 |
| Law & Major Contemporary Issues | - | 3 |
| Latin | 2 | 2 |
A unique aspect of French education
What is the IB diploma?
Download our brochure
The IB diploma programme is a two-year end of secondary school program available at schools in 150 different countries across the globe. The programme is rigorous, challenging and extremely rewarding, with pupils able to choose their own subjects and focus on areas that they are interested in and passionate about. The diploma is globally recognised and renowned for preparing well-rounded students that excel in higher education and international careers.
IB pupils study six subjects and choose three of these to study at a higher level, as well as three specific IB requirements: the theory of knowledge (TOK), an extended essay on a topic of their choice, and CAS activities —creative, active and service tasks to be completed over the course of the two-year program.
Bilingual Diploma - English and French
At Lycée Condorcet, we offer the bilingual IB diploma, which gives students the chance to have both their English and their French officially recognised. However, students are not required to speak French in order to apply to study the IB at our school. No matter your level upon joining Lycée Condorcet, you will have all the means at your disposal to improve, as you will be immersed in a French-speaking environment with bilingual classmates and teachers. Indeed, our students consistently achieve excellent results in both French and Australian national assessments. The 2021 IB Diploma Programme results were our best yet, with a grade average of 36, well above the global average of 33, which corresponds to an average ATAR of approximately 93.90.
Why Lycée Condorcet?
- Bilingual Diploma option
- IB Induction Programme
- Study French: beginners and native speakers
- Modern education adapted to students' needs
- Small class sizes
- 98% of students accepted into universities around the world
- Northern hemisphere school calendar
- Mixed, multicultural and secular
IB Teaching Philosophy at Lycée Condorcet
The IB program is a wonderful opportunity for students to become global citizens of significance. The holistic nature of the courses on offer allow students to develop critical thinking skills and community awareness. The IB program encourages the students to look at why knowledge is important. It is a wonderful preparation for higher study as students must be independent learners who look to complete their learning with guidance from teachers. The IB program is recognised worldwide as a breeding ground for scholars and leaders.
International Mobility
Since launching our IB Diploma Programme, our alumni have gone on to study at a range of different higher education institutions around the world. The IB Diploma is globally recognised and easily converted to allow students to apply to university programs across the world. During the past three years, our alumni have studied at institutions such as Cornell University, the UNSW, Maastricht University, the University of British Columbia and La Sorbonne.
2025 IB Results
Congratulations to the class of 2025 who all passed and obtained their International Baccalaureate Diplomas and are now ready to take on the outside world!
We are incredibly proud of this class who throughout their schooling have participated in a number of projects to protect the environment, to raise money for those who need it and to raise awareness about important issues. What a fantastic group of young people. We wish you all the best of luck for what lays ahead.
– 100% Pass Rate.
– highest score, 41/45.
Pedagogical
- Discovery camps in NSW
- World High School Students Week
- Internships
- Student and Professional Forums at LCS
- ADN x AEFE: school exchange program
The International Baccalaureate Structure
Common foundations
| General Subjects - Weekly Tuition Hours | Year 11 | Year 12 |
|---|---|---|
| TOK: Theory of Knowledge - Study of the reasons why we learn and how we know what we claim to know. A philosophical subject. | 2h | 2h |
| CAS: Creativity, Activity, and Service - Students undertake meaningful personal and collective projects over the course of two years. | 1h | 1h |
| EE: Extended Essay - Students choose a topic in which they write a mini-thesis on the theme of their choice. | - | - |
The students need to choose six subjects in these different groups
Students are required to undertake six subjects, with at least one subject from each of the five groups. The sixth subject may be Visual Arts or a second subject chosen from groups 2-4.
Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
English Literature or English Language and Literature
For students with a stronger interest in this subject, a literature-based course is offered, but there is also a language and literature course available.
Group 2: Language Acquisition
French A or B
Students can choose between French A, French B, and French AB Initio based on their interests and skills.
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
History & Economics
History – Students undertake studies ranging from civil rights to the Cold War. Countries studied include the United States, South Africa, Spain, and Vietnam.
Economics – Students study microeconomics, macroeconomics, and global economics.
Group 4: Experimental Sciences
Biology, Chemistry & Physics
Biology – Students undertake studies ranging from cells to genetics and evolution. Suitable for students interested in biology, the environment, and health.
Chemistry – Students take courses ranging from atomic structure to thermochemistry and organic chemistry. Suitable for those interested in sciences and may wish to pursue higher studies in this field.
Physics – Students engage in studies ranging from mechanics to nuclear physics and waves. Suitable for students with a strong understanding and keen interest in mathematics.
Group 5: Mathematics
Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches – This is the mathematics course for students with a strong interest in mathematics and those who will use mathematics in their university studies.
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation – This mathematics course can suit all students, regardless of their level in mathematics.
Group 6: The Arts & more
Visual Arts & Pamoja Online
Visual Arts – Students undertake studies on the context, methods, and communication of visual arts across a range of different mediums.
Pamoja Online – Students can choose subjects that are not offered at LCS. In the past, these subjects have included psychology, Spanish, and business studies. NB: There are additional fees for these courses.
The Ib students need to choose their Higher Level & Standard Level subjects (Minimum of 3 Higher Level subjects). This will determine their weekly tuition hours per subject.
HL: Higher Level - 4 Hours a week - These are chosen based on the subjects students prefer and in which they perform better. There is more content to learn, and deeper analysis is required.
SL: Standard Level - 3 Hours a week - These are chosen for subjects that students may like less and in which they may not be as strong. There is less content and less analysis required.
Students must complete a minimum of 3 HL subjects. Many students choose to take 4 HL subjects.