Learning programmes
International Advanced Diploma
The International Advanced Diploma (IAD) is an innovative new curriculum that equips HiF students with the world-class academic qualifications they need to succeed in their university applications—and the real-world skills to thrive in life.
Studying in our inspiring Swiss Alps location takes learning beyond the classroom through outdoor challenges, global partnerships, and hands-on projects – building resilience, confidence, collaboration, and a lifelong love of exploration.
Join our Online Information Session to discover how the IAD can transform your child’s learning journey.
Key components of the IAD
QUALIFICATIONS | Globally recognised A-levels
Students study three to four British A levels – the gold standard in international education – alongside the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
A-levels:
- Deep subject specialisation over two years
- Recognised by the world’s highest-ranking universities
EPQ:
- Independent research project worth half an A-level (UCAS points)
- Excellent preparation for university study
SKILLS | Real-world Skills Profile
The IAD builds seven core skills mapped to the University of Melbourne’s New Metrics for Success* and goes beyond academics to prepare students for life:
- Personal Development – understanding and improving oneself
- Acting Ethically – making principled decisions
- Active Citizenship – contributing positively to communities
- Agency in Learning – taking ownership of education
- Communication – expressing ideas effectively
- Collaboration – working well with others
- Quality Thinking – critical and creative problem-solving
IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES | Global Partnerships & Programmes
Hands-on learning is available through curated programmes and partnerships with top universities, leading companies, and NGOs such as:
- The Villars Institute
- WWF
- UNICEF
- CERN
Students gain real-world exposure that sets them apart, from sustainability projects with WWF to innovation challenges with CERN.
*HiF’s parent group, EIM, and other progressive global schools are partnering with the University of Melbourne’s New Metrics for Success, a collaborative research project to address issues faced by schools now and in the future.
Why choose the IAD?
Students are supported to design a highly personalised curriculum by selecting the best A levels for them, deciding the subject of their EPQ, and choosing one of the five IAD learning pathways, from:
- Arts, Design & Emerging Media
- Environmental Sciences &
- Ecopreneurship
- STEM & Engineering
- Global Systems & Strategic Leadership
- Medical Sciences, Leadership & Coaching
Each student graduates with a personal digital wallet containing their Real-world Skills Profile—a distinctive record highlighting their qualifications, capabilities, and readiness for the future.
Your purpose. Your passion. Your pathway.
The IAD learning journey at HiF
HiF students can begin their IAD education in Year 8 (age 12); however, the IAD diploma is awarded upon successful completion of Years 12 and 13 (the final two years).
- Lessons taught in English
- Additional language options: German, French, Spanish, or Mandarin
- Core subjects: English, Maths, Science, Language, Wellbeing
- Additional subjects: Humanities, Physical Education, Creative Arts
- Electives include:
- Woodwork
- Treasures of the Engadin – a social and cultural exploration of the valley
- Choose three to four A-levels
- Complete an Extended Project Qualification
- Earn an accredited Real-world Skills Profile, developed in partnership with the University of Melbourne’s New Metrics for Success
- Connected to global institutions such as The Villars Institute, WWF, UNICEF, and CERN
Start your IAD journey
Join our Online Information Session to meet HiF faculty, hear from current students, and discover how the IAD can transform your child’s learning journey