Learn More about the Cambridge International Pathway
Cambridge International Assessment
Our Cambridge International programme in South Auckland features exam-based assessments and clear benchmarking.
IGCSE, AS-Levels and A-Levels have an end-of-year exam system that allows teachers and students to explore questions to a depth and a quality that educators involved in internal assessment benchmarking simply do not have the time for.
Assessments play a vital role in gauging a student's progress and facilitating informed decisions regarding individual learners and their educational needs. We believe that our assessment system, including end-of-year exams, provides us with a structured framework for evaluating student development and reporting the results to parents.
IGCSE Grading System
The Cambridge International Grading System grades all work completed and submitted by students for assessment. This standardised grading system gives students a clear and comprehensive assessment of their knowledge and skills.
IGCSE grades are assigned based on performance in practical tests, exams and coursework. Grades range from A* to G (A* is the highest mark and G is the lowest). In case coursework and examination papers are not submitted, students will get an ungraded ('U') classification for that particular piece of work.
The A-Level Grading System is slightly different, as grades range from A* to E. A* is the highest grade.
A-Level Entry Requirements
Entry into the A-Level programme is based on each student's performance in their IGCSE courses. Generally, to gain entry to the AS/A-Level programme in a subject, students need to achieve a sound C grade in an equivalent subject at the IGCSE Level. The full list of prerequisites for entry to AS/A-Level can be found in our Senior Course Guide.
Cambridge International vs NCEA
A key strength of the Cambridge curriculum lies in its structure and clarity. Each subject is built on a well-defined syllabus that outlines exactly what students will learn and how they will be assessed, giving teachers, parents, and students a clear roadmap from the start. Because much of the assessment is external and exam-based, teachers can devote more time to teaching, and students can focus on mastering content rather than navigating constant internal assessments.
Cambridge assessments provide percentage scores that convert into precise grades, giving families an accurate picture of performance and progress. This clarity is one reason why Cambridge is so highly regarded by universities worldwide — its qualifications are recognised and trusted as evidence of both depth and rigour.
By contrast, NCEA relies heavily on year-round internal assessments graded into broad bands such as Achieved, Merit, and Excellence. While this approach can capture some progress, it often reduces teaching time and can make it harder for parents to gauge exactly how their child is performing. Questions about consistency across schools and grade boundaries have only added to parents’ uncertainty about NCEA’s credibility at higher levels.
The Difference Between Cambridge AS and A-Levels
Thousands of students around the world progress to leading universities every year with Cambridge International AS and A-Levels, a qualification for students between 17 and 18 years of age.
The Cambridge International A-Level (Advanced Level) is a two-year course, while the Cambridge International AS-Level course (Advanced Subsidiary Level) is one year. An AS-Level contains half the content of the corresponding A-Level.
Some Cambridge International AS-Levels can be extended to A-Levels, providing a deep understanding of subjects and independent thinking skills.
