Learning programmes
English National Curriculum
HIF students study for globally renowned British qualifications accepted by top worldwide universities.
At HIF, students aged 14-19 follow an internationally recognised pathway benchmarked against the UK education system:
- GCSEs (ages 14–16) build strong academic foundations and confidence
- A levels (ages 16–19) allow students to specialise and prepare for university study *available at HIF circa 2028
Each student is also exposed to high-quality experiential learning so they graduate with gold standard qualifications and future-proof skills. Together, these qualifications and certifications culminate in the award of the International Advanced Diploma (IAD).
What is the IAD?
A progressive curriculum, the IAD comprises three core components:
(1) World-class British qualifications (English National Curriculum)
(2) Real-world skills
(3) Real-context (experiential learning)
Why Choose the IAD?
The IAD offers a broader and more dynamic learning experience than traditional education by combining personalisation with a strong academic and skills-based focus, ensuring students develop both the knowledge and the practical capabilities for successful futures post-school.
HIF students learn beyond the classroom, moving between studies, outdoor challenges, leadership experiences, and their own interests.
Globally renowned British qualifications
GCSEs & A levels mean students graduate with world renowned qualifications and gain access to top global university destinations.
Real-world Skills
The IAD develops seven core skills mapped to the University of Melbourne’s New Metrics for Success beyond academics to prepare students for life.
Real-world contexts
Experiential learning via carefully curated opportunities with top universities, leading companies and NGOs gives students an edge.
IAD AT HIF
Personalised Experiences
Students are supported to design a highly personalised IAD journey by choosing their:
- GCSE and A level qualifications
- EPQ topic
- IAD pathway (from five options)
- Certifications and programmes to complement their chosen IAD pathway
All qualifications, microcredentials, and certificates earned throughout an individual’s IAD journey are stored in a personalised digital wallet, providing a Real-world Skills Profile – a distinctive record of academic qualifications, adaptive capabilities, and validated real-world experiences, which together demonstrate a world-beating readiness for the future.
Your purpose. Your passion. Your pathway.
IAD Pathways
At HiF, students choose one of the five IAD pathways, depending on their strengths, interests, and plans for the future, from:
- STEM & Engineering
- Medical Sciences, Leadership & Coaching
- Environmental Sciences & Ecopreneurship
- Global Systems & Strategic Leadership
- Arts, Design & Emerging Media
A Day in the Life of an IAD Student
Each day is different at HiF, depending on the season and your individual curriculum. Students have ample time away from lessons to focus on wellbeing, to study, and to relax. HiF also offers unmatched opportunities to gain incredible knowledge and experiences through our alpine environment, such as learning about natural sciences or skiing the slopes.
A typical day looks like this, with sample timetables for Years 12 and 13 below.
Wake up to mountain views and fresh Alpine air
Breakfast with friends in the dining hall
Morning lessons or training sessions on the slopes or trails
Freshly cooked, seasonal lunch and time to relax in the boarding house
Afternoon classes, workshops, or sports training
Supported study time, extra training, or outdoor adventures
Dinner: great food together with friends to share stories and laughter
Study time, activities, or relaxing with friends before lights out
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