When comparing Notre Dame School and ACS Cobham International School, it is important to recognise that they follow different academic systems. Notre Dame is a traditional British independent school offering GCSEs and A-levels, while ACS Cobham is an international school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) qualifications. Because of this, their results are not directly comparable, but it is still possible to assess the overall standard of academic performance.
At GCSE level, Notre Dame produces strong results for a broad-ability independent school. Around half of all grades are typically in the 7–9 range, with a significant proportion at grades 8 and 9. A notable number of students achieve multiple top grades, placing the school comfortably above national averages and in line with many strong independent schools. ACS Cobham does not offer GCSEs, so there is no direct comparison at this stage.
At Sixth Form, the comparison becomes more meaningful, although the qualifications differ. Notre Dame offers A-levels and consistently achieves strong outcomes. Around half of all grades are usually at A* to A, with the vast majority of results at A* to C. These results support progression to a wide range of universities, including competitive Russell Group institutions.
ACS Cobham offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which is assessed on a points system out of 45. The school typically achieves an average score of around 35 points, which is above the global average of approximately 30. Pass rates are very high, often around the mid to high nineties. A significant proportion of students achieve scores of 38 points or higher, which is broadly equivalent to strong A-level grades such as AAA or above. The highest-performing students reach scores in the mid-forties, comparable to achieving multiple A* grades at A-level.
In practical terms, both schools demonstrate strong academic performance, but within different frameworks. Notre Dame’s results reflect a successful traditional academic pathway, while ACS Cobham’s outcomes reflect success within an international curriculum designed to prepare students for global university destinations.
The key difference lies not just in the results themselves, but in the approach to education. Notre Dame follows a more structured and exam-focused British model, with clear progression from GCSE to A-level. ACS Cobham offers a broader and more holistic curriculum through the IB, encouraging independent learning, critical thinking, and a wider range of subjects.
Both schools are academically strong, and the better choice depends on the student. Those who thrive in a traditional exam system may be better suited to Notre Dame, while those looking for a more international and broad-based education may prefer ACS Cobham.
Educational Choices 