DCB Class of 2024 Aidan S and Eddy J Achieve Perfect IB Scores
At Dulwich College Beijing (DCB), we are committed to the pursuit of learning excellence and fostering holistic learning that develops the whole student. One of the flagship programmes that showcases this commitment is our International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) – a globally recognised gold standard for university entrance. DCB Class of 2024 students registered outstanding performances in this year’s IBDP programme, including two perfect scores of 45 by Aidan and Eddy, whose educational journeys here at DCB began from when they were still in DUCKS and now off to university.
Initially in disbelief at the results, Aidan shared that he was not expecting to do as well as he did, while Eddy admitted to refreshing the results page several times just to make sure it wasn't a visual error displaying the wrong score.
However, once the initial excitement had worn off, Eddy found the whole moment bittersweet. “On one hand, I was the happiest I've ever felt, seeing my two years of hard work and perseverance pay off and yield results I couldn't be prouder of. On the other hand, it was a stark reminder that my high school journey was officially over and that my happy experiences with friends and teachers at DCB would soon become memories instead. That's why I've vowed to cherish the remaining moments until my friends and I leave for university, celebrating our friendships and shared successes in completing our IB diplomas.”
- Read more about Aidan’s journey at DCB in The Fantastic Mr Aidan S: Meet our DCB Class of 2024
- Read more about Eddy’s journey at DCB in DCB Class of 2024 Eddy J: Cracking the Code
What they learned from the IBDP
The rigorous two-year IBDP is a notoriously challenging programme, but upon reflection, both Aidan and Eddy also found it rewarding for what it taught them. “Juggling academics with extracurriculars helped me develop effective study and time management strategies,” Aidan said. “I learned not only knowledge in my subjects but also how to learn.”
Eddy shared how his research skills have improved through the Extended Essay (EE), various styles of academic writing through each subject's IA (Internal Assessment), and soft skills – or what he called "survival skills" – like perseverance, time management, and organisation. “I can confidently say that IB was a challenging but fun journey from which I emerged a much more confident, passionate, and prepared student.”
Their IBDP study strategies
Aidan advised to maintain consistency. “I saw each small assessment as a chance to revise the information I was learning, which helped me retain information nearing the final exam.” He also recommended finding study partners. “Before every history exam, our entire class would have group calls to keep each other on track and discuss potential answers to questions.” He also recommends using focus apps such as the Forest app. “It helps lock your phone to prevent distractions. Trust me, it works!”
Eddy shared a Chinese proverb that served as a reminder for him to persevere throughout his IB journey, and how it inspired him. “’Every drop of sweat lost regularly is a drop of blood saved in battle.’ The most important part of my study strategy is to review content after class instead of cramming before the exams. Practice papers also helped me familiarise myself with the styles of questions being asked, which helped calm my nerves and made me feel a lot more comfortable responding to questions during the actual exam.” Eddy also tracked his progress and academic growth by creating a retrospective revision timetable that helped him immensely. “Not only did it help me visualise my improvement over time, but it also reminded me what content I was struggling with and needed to revise next.”
Dealing with stress
Having a support network of friends, family, and teachers goes a long way to in helping deal with stress. “I made sure to stay social and hang out with friends as much as possible, whether that be through sports or games. To maintain motivation, I tried to find entertainment and fun in the work assigned, especially in the IAs and EEs. I chose topics that genuinely interested me,” said Aidan.
And while that sounds counterintuitive to some, Eddy also agrees that a healthy work-life balance is necessary in avoiding burnout. Eddy even learned how to play the saxophone during this time, which helped make him more productive and less mentally drained. Practising mindfulness and the best ways to react to emotions was especially important whenever Eddy was feeling exhausted or needed a break.
Taking the IBDP at DCB
Eddy also shared how grateful he was to be at DCB, calling it ‘the perfect environment’ for him to work toward his academic goals. He appreciated the regular assemblies where students were reminded of upcoming deadlines and the workshop sessions for students submitting their EE and TOK coursework.
Aidan described his teachers as amazing, supporting and encouraging him throughout his entire journey and on managing stress and advising him on revisions. Eddy also agreed, saying that they held him responsible for the quality of work he handed in and making themselves accessible whenever he needed help. “In fact, there are so many resources and opportunities in school that support my success that my parents and I have been firmly against getting additional lessons outside of school throughout my nine years at DCB because it would be redundant.”
Eddy also added that he wanted to say “a final massive THANK YOU to all the teachers, friends, and peers who have supported my academic journey until now and made my time here at DCB so enjoyable and memorable.” He shared how his cohort has gone through so many challenges – e-learning, having their IGCSE finals canceled, to struggles with university applications to undergoing the IB. “In ten years, when I look back at my high school journey, I may not remember details of my achievements at school or with the IB, but I do not doubt that I will ever forget the incredible people and experiences that defined these years,” Eddy said.
Both students also extend their best wishes to future test-takers. “Don’t stress! IB seems like a daunting feat, but if you manage your time effectively and take it one step at a time, it'll get easier. Good luck!” added Aidan.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Photos from Eddy J and Aidan S
