The ISIB Learning Journey follows the Cambridge Pathway, offering a seamless educational experience from the Early Years through to Upper Secondary.  ​Beginning in the Early Years (ages 3–5), children are encouraged to explore, question and communicate through play-based learning that nurtures curiosity, confidence and early social skills.  ​As they move into the Primary stage (ages 5–11), pupils build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy and inquiry, developing independence and collaboration as they engage with a broad, balanced curriculum.  ​During Lower Secondary (ages 11–14), learners deepen their subject knowledge and critical thinking, preparing for the academic demands of the IGCSE and developing resilience and reflection in their studies.  ​Finally, in Upper Secondary (ages 14–16), students undertake the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and may earn additional recognised qualifications such as the Danish FP9 or CEFR certification. This stage fosters self-discipline, academic excellence and readiness for further education, ensuring that each learner leaves ISIB with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to thrive in an interconnected world.

Educational guidance at ISIB supports each student in making informed choices about their learning and future pathways. The school works in close cooperation with UU Ikast-Brande, as outlined in the Cooperation Agreement (2026–2027), which details collaboration between ISIB and UU guidance services.  ​Within our PSHE (Personal, Social & Health Education) and Life Skills lessons, students engage with the Danish subject Uddannelse & Job (Education & Job), exploring their interests, skills and aspirations while understanding the value of lifelong learning for achieving career goals.  ​From Early Years to Year 11, ISIB ensures that students receive at least six ‘Education and Job’ focused lessons annually as part of PSHE. From Year 8 onward, this is complemented by group guidance sessions delivered by UU’s Youth Guidance Counsellor, helping students to reflect on their future educational choices.  ​Each year, the school leadership team also participates in a planning meeting to align the ‘Education and Job’ curriculum with evolving guidance practices and ensure continued relevance and quality. ​Through this integrated approach to academic and personal development, ISIB students are supported to grow as confident, reflective learners equipped for success in both further education and their future careers.

From Year 8 onwards, students engage in self-assessment and guidance sessions with teachers, parents and UU counsellors to support informed decisions about their future pathways. These discussions, including individual meetings (klassekonferencer), ensure that each student receives individualised support tailored to their academic progress and career interests. ​In Years 10 and 11, all students are required to apply for and complete a one-week work placement, gaining valuable practical experience in professional environments. Throughout this period, UU counsellors meet with students several times a year to discuss local and national educational opportunities.   ​ Students in Year 9 visit local vocational institutions during Erhvervsskolernes Dag and attend, together with their parents - the regional Uddannelsesmesse (Education Fair), where they can explore both vocational and academic pathways. Participation in this event is optional for Year 10 students.  ​ Additionally, students in Years 9 and 10 take part in introkurser and brobygning (bridge-building) activities at a range of youth education institutions, both vocational and non-vocational. These experiences, coordinated in collaboration with UU and ISIB staff, help students gain insight into different study environments and future learning options.  ​ Information about entrance requirements for Upper Secondary and Youth Education programmes is available on the official Study Guide (Uddannelses Guiden) website. As admission criteria and grade requirements are updated regularly, families are encouraged to refer directly to these sources for the most current guidance.    Optagelsesprøve (Entrance Assessment to Upper Secondary Educations)  ​ Entrance assessments (optagelsesprøver) are conducted by Danish Upper Secondary education institutions, such as gymnasier and vocational schools, to determine eligibility and placement for applicants. This process applies nationally to all students who come from friskole backgrounds.   ​ Information about the entrance assessment requirements and procedures for upper secondary education can be found on the official Danish Ministry of Education website:   https://www.uvm.dk  ​  Other Admissions Tests    Please note that upper secondary education providers, such as Pre-IB or IB, may have different entry requirements, which can include admission tests or interviews. As these vary between institutions, families are encouraged to contact the relevant school directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Cambridge IGCSE's are valuable qualifications that can be used when applying to Further Education settings such as university. The IGCSE certificate can be used to prove language abilities and proficiencies within other subjects. You can find out their value international through the Cambridge Recognition Search site. ​ For further information about studying at Higher Education levels such as undergraduate and postgraduate options etc. please go to:  ​ https://studyindenmark.dk/    Studying in English    Denmark offers a wide range of higher education programmes taught entirely or partly in English. English-taught options are available across a variety of fields and levels, including professional, undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Students can search for programmes, compare study options and explore admission information through the official Study in Denmark – Programmes portal.   Navigating the Danish Education System   Understanding and navigating the Danish education system can be challenging, particularly for families who are unfamiliar with the different types of schools, educational pathways, qualifications and progression routes in Denmark. The terminology and structure can also differ significantly from education systems in other countries. To help students and families understand how the Danish system is structured, the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science provides an English-language guide to the Danish Education System. The guide explains the different levels of education, qualifications and pathways within Denmark and can be a useful starting point when considering educational options. Read the English Guide to the Danish Education System

ISIB cooperates with UU Vejleder Ms Gitte Kolding Mortensen who visits our learners on a regular basis throughout the year. In collaboration with the school, Ms Gitte guides our students through the process of their readiness for Upper Secondary Education programs in Denmark.  For more information, please contact:  ​Gitte Kolding Mortensen  Gimor@ikast-brande.dk  Tel: +45 21179491 / +45 99604282

Cambridge Assessment International Education:  https://www.cambridgeinternational.org Cambridge Recognition and Acceptance https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/recognition-and-acceptance/Danish Ministry of Education:  https://www.uvm.dk Career Guide:  https://karriereguiden.nu/