Secondary School vs High School: Knowing the Difference

The terms secondary school and high school are often used interchangeably, yet they carry distinct meanings depending on the educational system in question. While both are critical stages in a child’s education, understanding the subtle differences between them is important for parents, educators, and students alike.

Below, we explore what is secondary school, what is high school, the differences between them, the qualifications students can gain at this stage, and how British School Jakarta (BSJ) implements these concepts.

What is Secondary School?

Secondary school refers to the educational phase that follows primary school and typically spans the ages of 11 to 16 or 18, depending on the country. In many systems, secondary school is divided into two stages: lower secondary (often called middle school) and upper secondary.

In countries such as the UK, secondary school starts at Year 7 and continues until Year 11, at which point students are around 16 years old. The end of secondary school marks the completion of compulsory education in many countries, after which students may either enter the workforce or continue their education in further education or higher education.

In the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, which BSJ follows, secondary education is structured around the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11-16, which focuses on inquiry-based learning and holistic development, and transitions into the Diploma Programme (DP) or Career-related Programme (CP) for students aged 16-18.

What is High School?

On the other hand, high school is a term predominantly used in the United States and some other countries, such as Canada, to describe the last segment of secondary education. High school typically includes Grades 9 to 12, or Years 10 to 13, depending on the educational system. Students in high school are generally between the ages of 14 and 18, and the focus is on providing a more specialised and in-depth education in preparation for university or entering the workforce.

High school curricula often include both core subjects, such as English, Maths, and Science, and elective subjects, like Arts, Foreign Languages, and Physical Education. While secondary school and high school may seem similar in many aspects, the terminology difference often signifies the level of education and, in some cases, the geographical location.

Variations in Structure, Curriculum, and Qualifications

The secondary vs high school debate can be further explored through variations in structure, curriculum, and the qualifications that students achieve at the end of their education. These factors differ from country to country and educational system to educational system.

1. 1. Curriculum Structure
   
   • In the UK and countries following a similar educational structure, secondary school is generally more focused on a broad range of subjects. Students in Years 7-9 study a mix of subjects, including Maths, English, Science, History, Geography, and Foreign Languages.
   
   • In contrast, high school in countries like the USA offers more flexibility in subject choice. While core subjects remain central, high school students typically have a wide range of electives to choose from, such as business studies, social sciences, and advanced placement (AP) courses. High school students can also take state-specific exams such as the SAT or ACT for university admission. The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and ACT (American College Testing) are standardised exams used for university admissions in the United States, assessing students' skills in reading, writing, math, and, for the ACT, science. While both tests serve a similar purpose, they have different formats and scoring systems, with some universities accepting either as part of their admission criteria.
   
   
2. 2. Qualification
   
   • In many education systems, students in the final years of secondary school sit formal exams or assessments in core subjects such as Maths, English, and Science. These qualifications are often essential for progressing to higher education or vocational training.
   
   In comparison, high school students typically receive a diploma upon completing the required coursework. This serves as evidence of their academic achievement and eligibility for further education or employment. Some may also take additional standardised tests for university admissions.
   
   At BSJ, students in the secondary school phase, particularly in the MYP and DP, are given opportunities to engage with an inquiry-based curriculum that supports both their academic and personal development. This approach prepares students for global citizenship and higher education, culminating in qualifications that include the IB Diploma and IB Career-related Program.
   
   

What is a Secondary School Qualification?

A secondary school qualification is an academic certification awarded at the end of secondary education. It varies widely depending on the country and system, but it signifies that the student has met the required standards in education and is prepared for the next phase of their academic journey, whether that be further education or entering the workforce.

In many education systems, students work towards qualifications that assess their knowledge and skills in core subjects such as Maths, English, and Science. These qualifications may be awarded through formal examinations, continuous assessment, or a combination of both. In some systems, students receive a certificate or diploma upon completing a set curriculum, demonstrating their academic achievements and readiness for further education or employment. Additionally, some students may undertake advanced courses or specialised assessments to strengthen their university applications.

At BSJ, secondary students work through both the MYP and DP, engaging with subjects that build both academic knowledge and personal development. The IB qualifications that students achieve at the end of the secondary school phase are recognised internationally, allowing them to apply to universities across the world.

Getting to Know BSJ's Secondary School

British School Jakarta provides a holistic, internationally minded education in its secondary school that spans Years 7 to 13. BSJ offers a comprehensive academic programme built around the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, including the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The school’s approach is student-centred and inquiry-based, prioritising not just academic success but also the intellectual, emotional, and social development of students.

BSJ’s secondary school curriculum is designed to foster a love of learning and critical thinking while supporting personal growth. Students are encouraged to engage with real-world issues, develop a strong sense of global and local awareness, and cultivate the skills needed for future success.

In addition to the strong academic programme, BSJ offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that support students’ physical, artistic, and personal development. With state-of-the-art facilities, including sports complexes, a performing arts theatre, and modern classrooms, BSJ ensures that students have access to the resources they need to thrive in all areas of their education.

In conclusion, while the terms secondary school and high school may seem synonymous, they differ in structure, terminology, and qualifications depending on the educational system. Understanding these differences can help students and parents navigate the choices and challenges of education. At BSJ, the focus on personalised, inquiry-based learning in a dynamic environment ensures that students are equipped not only for academic success but also for life beyond school, embracing a well-rounded educational experience that prepares them for a global future.