Flight - High School
Flight
Grade Comparisons
Humanitree High School Academic Profile 2024-25
USA | Grades 10 - 12 |
México | 1º - 3º Preparatoria |
UK | Years 11 - 13 |
At Humanitree, we offer two distinct High School educational pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the Humanitree High School Diploma (HHSD).
The High School section of the school, known as Flight, is an integral part of the Humanitree educational ecosystem. As students progress through their academic journey, the demands of the school increase, challenging them to embrace the responsibility of becoming lifelong learners.
As life beyond Humanitree grows ever closer, our school's core values become increasingly important, and students recognize their personal responsibilities. As they continue to develop courage and independence, they make decisions with determination, overcome problems and accept that what they say should be consistent with what they do.
Humanitree provide knowledge, skills and understanding that have high currency in both further and higher education as well as with the wider business and cultural community at a national and international level.
UCAS
Humanitree is an officially registered University and College Admissions Service (UCAS - UK) centre. Find out more here:
our alumni
Our personalized learning pathways and outstanding university counsellor guidance leads to our alumni gaining acceptance to a broad range of universities upon graduation from Humanitree, including:
- Universidad Anahuac
- University of Arizona
- Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona
- Brandeis University
- Bard College
- The University of Cardiff
- Curry College
- Cessa Universidad
- Colorado College
- Centro
- University of Denver
- Drexel University
- École hôtelière de Lausanne
- Universidad Iberoamericana
- IE University
- ITAM
- Lehigh University
- Michigan State University
- Mount Holyoke
- North Carolina State University
- NYU
- Universidad Panamericana
- Parsons
- University of Oregon
- UC San Diego
- SCAD
- The Culinary Institute of America (NY)
- Tecnológico de Monterrey
- Vancouver Island University
- Warren Wilson College
- Wellesley
International Baccalaureate
Humanitree is an authorised IB world school and offers the IB Diploma Programme to all Flight students. The IB Diploma Programme is a comprehensive course of studies designed to be undertaken during the final two years of High School. It is recognised as one of the best preparations for university and helps students to develop valuable life skills.
Students at Humanitree will be able to choose between completing the full Diploma Programme, which involves taking 6 subject courses as well as Theory of Knowledge, completing an Extended Essay and meeting the CAS requirements. Alternatively, students may elect to take individual courses to gain exam certificates.
IB Curriculum
- Group 1 Studies in Language & Literature
- Group 2 Language Acquisition
- Group 3 Individuals & Societies
- Group 4 Sciences
- Group 5 Mathematics
- Group 6 - The Arts / Others
Group 1 Studies in Language & Literature
English Language & Literature SL/HL develops students' proficiency in literature and language. The curriculum covers in-depth study of literary works from various genres, time periods, and cultures. Students analyse texts, develop critical thinking, and improve their written and oral communication skills. The program cultivates an appreciation for diverse perspectives and nuanced self-expression. English IB prepares students for further studies in literature, linguistics, journalism and other humanities-based fields.
Group 2 Language Acquisition
The Humanitree Diploma in French has been designed to focus on practical and most relevant possible skills and topics. We start the course with an evaluation of pupils' levels and former knowledge before moving on to six big topics: expressing yourself when travelling, talking about your interests, your relationships, and world affairs and the environment. Pupils learn how to describe an image, tell a story and how to deal with everyday life matters. This program allows pupils to practise and develop useful vocabulary through comprehension and expression activities. Every lesson pupils mostly speak and read but they also write and extract information from videos. The program is very adaptable to pupil's abilities and the outcome heavily relies on how much effort and extra practice pupils will put in.
Spanish Language & Literature SL/HL examines the Spanish language, its literature, and associated cultural contexts. The curriculum covers in-depth study of literary works, rhetorical analysis, and language development. Students develop advanced skills in critical reading, writing, and oral communication in Spanish. The program cultivates an appreciation for the diversity of Spanish-language texts and their sociocultural significance. Spanish Language & Literature IB prepares students for further studies in Spanish, literature, linguistics, or careers requiring high proficiency in the Spanish language.
French ab initio immerses students in the French language and culture. The curriculum focuses on developing advanced proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing French. Students explore a range of topics like social relationships, cultural diversity, and global issues. The program emphasises communication, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding. French IB prepares students for further French language studies or careers requiring high-level French proficiency, such as international business, diplomacy or translation.
Group 3 Individuals & Societies
Business Management HL examines business decision-making and practices. The curriculum covers key topics like Business Organization, Human Resources, Finance, Marketing and Operations. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by analysing real-world business case studies. The program prepares students for further study or careers in business, economics and management.
Psychology SL/HL explores the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. The curriculum covers topics like Biological, Cognitive, and Sociocultural influences on Psychology. Students learn research methods and evaluate psychological theories through case studies and experiments. The program develops analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. Psychology IB prepares students for further studies or careers in psychology, social sciences and related fields.
Economics SL/HL examines the principles and theories of Economics. The curriculum covers Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, International economics, and Development economics. Students analyse real-world economic issues, interpret data, and develop models. The program emphasises critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Economics IB prepares students for further study or careers in economics, business, finance, and policy-related fields.
Group 4 Sciences
Biology SL/HL offers a comprehensive study of the living world. Students explore topics ranging from cell biology to ecology, developing critical thinking skills through experiments and case studies. The inquiry-based curriculum encourages students to design investigations and find solutions to complex biological problems. By the end of the course, IBDP Biology students gain a deep understanding of the scientific method and the role of biology in addressing global challenges like human health and sustainability.
Chemistry SL/HL provides students with an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles and applications of chemistry. Through this program, learners delve into topics such as atomic structure, bonding, thermochemistry, organic chemistry, and analytical techniques. The course emphasises an experimental approach, where students conduct hands-on lab work to develop practical skills and reinforce theoretical concepts. IBDP Chemistry also encourages critical thinking, as students analyse data, evaluate chemical processes, and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. By the end of the course, students not only gain a robust foundation in chemical science but also cultivate essential problem-solving abilities that are valuable in a wide range of academic and professional pursuits.
Physics SL/HL offers students a comprehensive exploration of the physical world. Through this program, learners delve into topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, waves, and modern physics. The course emphasises an experimental approach, where students conduct hands-on lab work to develop practical skills and reinforce theoretical concepts. IBDP Physics also encourages critical thinking, as students analyse data, evaluate physical phenomena, and apply their knowledge to real-world situations. By the end of the course, students not only gain a robust foundation in physical science but also cultivate essential problem-solving abilities that are valuable in a wide range of academic and professional pursuits.
Group 5 Mathematics
Maths Analysis & Approaches HL (AA) is focused on analytical, abstract, and theoretical mathematical concepts. The curriculum covers topics like algebra, functions, calculus, statistics, and discrete mathematics. Students develop strong problem-solving, reasoning, and modelling skills. The program emphasises a deeper understanding of mathematical principles and their real-world applications. Mathematics Analysis and Approaches prepares students for further studies in STEM fields, economics, finance, or any disciplines requiring advanced mathematical skills.
Mathematics Applications and Interpretation SL (AI) IB focuses on practical, real-world applications of mathematics. The curriculum covers topics like statistics, modelling, geometry, and discrete mathematics. Students learn to analyse, interpret, and apply mathematical concepts to solve problems in a variety of contexts. The program emphasises the use of technology and the development of data analysis and problem-solving skills. Mathematics Applications and Interpretation prepares students for further studies in social sciences, business, sports, or other fields that require the application of mathematics.
Group 6 - The Arts / Others
Music SL/HL Students develop and affirm their unique musical identities during the course while expanding and refining their musical skills.
Students are encouraged to explore music from varied and sometimes unfamiliar contexts. In addition, by experimenting with music, students gain hands-on experience while honing their musical skills. By performing and presenting samples of their musical works with others, students learn to communicate critical and artistic intentions and purposes.
As students develop as young musicians, the course challenges them to work with music practically as researchers, performers, and creators. At the same time, it encourages them to be motivated by their unique passions and interests while broadening their musical and artistic perspectives.
Visual Arts HL/SL In the IB Visual Arts programme, students are challenged to expand their creative horizons and explore art beyond their cultural background. Through studio practice, exploration of various media, and critical reflection, they develop technical skills and artistic confidence. The curriculum delves into the history and theory of visual art, encouraging students to analyse and interpret artworks from diverse contexts. This fosters a deep appreciation for artistic expression throughout time and cultures, preparing them for success in art careers or further studies in visual arts, design, and related fields.
Sports Science SL/HL In the Sports, exercise and health science IB students explore concepts, theories and techniques that allow connections to be made between different areas of the subjects.
The units taught in the course are as follows:
- Communication,
- Hydration and nutrition,
- Response,
- General movement in the body,
- Focus, motion and movement,
- Injury,
- Individual differences,
- Motor learning,
- Motivation,
- Stress and coping,
- Psychological skills.
The course is organised under three main themes: exercise physiology and nutrition of the human body; biomechanics; sports psychology and motor learning. These themes are distinct, but also share many overlapping features; studying the similarities and connections between them is a central component of the course.
This course will prepare students for University study in the subject area of sports science and other sports-specific courses.
Humanitree high school diploma
English
As part of the HHSD for English, Flight 2 and 3 will be completing a blend of both creative and analytical pieces of work and study, throughout the academic year. Flight 2 will analyse mixed media texts, before creating their independent screenplay. Flight 3 will complete an ethics unit which will incorporate their own frameworks, to real-world scenarios. The program will prepare students to embark in both creative and academic endeavours; as both students in Flight 2, and 3, will then produce a variety of works such as zines, comedy skits, literary analysis, and academic research papers, before concluding the year.
Spanish
In the HSHD, students develop different communication skills, as well as oral and written comprehension and an ability to respond to different texts critically. They also study a wide variety of non-literary and literary texts in a variety of media, using them as a model for their own writings. In addition, the nature of language and its properties according to communication contexts are explored. Finally, grammar, spelling, syntax and vocabulary are studied in order to help students achieve correctness, precision and coherence in communication. This course is designed to be practical and creative while also engaging students' interests.
Mathematics
Students are able to master the world of numbers with our engaging four semester Mathematics Humanitree High School Diploma program. In Flight 2 they will have the opportunity to dive deep into algebra, conquering equations and inequalities. Students will also explore the fascinating world of statistics and probability, learning to analyse data and predict future outcomes. In Flight 3 they will discover the wonders of geometry, mastering shapes, spaces, and their relationships. In addition to this, our students gain a competitive edge with targeted SAT exam preparation, ensuring a confident performance in university and college entrance exams. This comprehensive program will equip them with the crucial mathematical skills needed for success in higher education and beyond.
Elective 1
1. Physics: Energy and the Environment
Students will study the vast array of energy stores and uncover the mechanisms behind energy transformations. Guided by the fundamental laws that govern the universe, they will participate in hands-on experiments to gather data to support their hypotheses. Through these practical activities, they will enhance their problem-solving skills, becoming more methodical and analytical. The students will engage in a discussion on the energy challenges our planet faces and explore potential solutions for humanity to overcome these issues.
2. Chemistry: Organic Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals
In this module students learn the fundamentals of organic chemistry. They identify different organic families and how they are classified. In doing so, students can identify the different homologous series present in different organic compounds. This is then applied to the pharmaceutical industry, and how these compounds show up in some common drugs that we take such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, etc. and how these drugs interact with the organic chemistry of our own cells to cause the known and unknown effects within the body.
3. Biology
In this module, students will try to unlock some of the mysteries of life. With a focus on human biology, students will delve deep into the intricate world of biological sciences. Covering topics including genetics, endocrinology and immunity, we will look at the molecules, cells and bodily systems that control much of our functionality. On top of this, we will include a series of practical investigations so that students can practise the scientific method. Through this, we hope to develop an appreciation for the importance of collating reliable data and evaluating processes effectively.
4. Product Design
In our Product Design course, students develop prototype products for testing and evaluation. They examine existing products and real-world problems to better understand client and user needs. Hybrid sketching and formal drawing techniques are used to create detailed plans for third-party manufacture. Learning to use CAD software for 3D printing and laser cutting in our FabLab gives students first-hand experience using real-world manufacturing methods. Our end-of-unit exhibition is where students curate and showcase their design ideas to the wider community.
5. Psychology
In the Humanitree psychology class, students embark on a fascinating journey into the intricacies of the human mind and behaviour. Through a blend of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, they explore various psychological concepts and theories, ranging from the fundamentals of cognition and perception to the complexities of personality and social interactions. Engaging discussions dissect case studies and real-world applications, inviting students to ponder the mysteries of consciousness, memory, and motivation. Practical experiments and demonstrations offer firsthand experiences, allowing students to witness psychological phenomena in action and understand the scientific methods used to study them. With a focus on critical thinking and empathy, the class encourages students to analyse their own thoughts and behaviours, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Elective 2
1. Entrepreneurship
Our entrepreneurship course offers a dynamic and immersive learning experience, guiding students through the entire journey of starting a business. From generating innovative ideas to understanding the financial and legal frameworks, our curriculum is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools they need for success. Through bi-weekly presentations in our cinema, engaging guest speakers, and practical activities like creating mock websites, students not only learn the fundamentals of business but also develop essential skills in communication and strategic thinking. This hands-on approach ensures that they gain a comprehensive understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape and the challenges it presents, preparing them to become the visionary leaders of tomorrow.
2. Marketing
The marketing course leads students to comprehend the planning and development of new products or services. Similarly, through various exercises and assignments, students achieve an understanding of the importance of market research, how to conduct it, and practically design questionnaires, surveys, and focus groups for the launch of a product designed by them. Finally, as the culmination of the course, students undertake a project involving understanding the elements that form the branding of a concept, establishing the target market, designing products, and conducting a forecast where they establish initial investment, return on investment, and business viability. This project is presented to a panel of judges where students must practise their public speaking skills and persuasion abilities to convince the panel of opting for the best option to carry out the project. The course aims to acquire basic knowledge of marketing and entrepreneurship and puts into practice numerous soft skills such as collaboration, teamwork, leadership, public speaking, among others.
3. Music Production
This course thoroughly introduces music production, concentrating on the basic principles of creating music. Students will learn about music composition, theory, and digital audio. They will gain practical experience with digital audio workstations like Ableton Live, where they will learn to compose, record, mix, and master tracks. Additionally, students will explore the ethical and cultural aspects of music production, including topics like intellectual property, technology's influence on music, and music's impact on society. Throughout the course, students will create their music and work on collaborative projects, giving them valuable skills and knowledge for careers in music or other fields.
4. Art - Photography
In Humanitree High School Diploma Photography, students ignite their passion for capturing the world through a lens. They dive headfirst into exploring various photographic techniques and equipment, building a strong technical foundation that empowers their vision. The program emphasises hands-on learning, allowing students to experiment and refine their unique artistic voice. This immersive experience fosters a deep appreciation for the diverse ways photographers tell stories through their images. By graduation, students walk away with a compelling portfolio and the skills to confidently pursue their photographic aspirations.
5. Computer Science
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of computer science, focusing on the fundamental principles that underpin the discipline. Students will explore the essential concepts of computational thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. They will gain hands-on experience with programming languages such as Python and JavaScript, learning to design, create, and debug programs. Students will also delve into the ethical implications of technology, examining topics like privacy, security, and the impact of computing on society. Students will have the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam.
Elective 3
1. Hospitality Management (Culinary Arts)
The hospitality industry includes hotels and hotel services, travel and tourism, restaurants, bakeries, cafés, food service and the culinary arts. You will prepare a range of international dishes, within our specialist practical learning kitchen to include, Mexican, Chinese, European, Indian, Russian, Italian, French, British/Irish, as well as dishes for special diets. You will also acquire skills in food and beverage service. In addition, you will learn about the Hospitality Industry, Food Safety, Health and Safety, Nutrition, Kitchen Equipment, and Personal Workplace Skills.
2. ICT in Business:
Throughout the course, we will explore the relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) and business, highlighting how these two fields support and complement each other. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of how ICT can be harnessed to drive business growth, increase efficiency, and create innovative solutions. An integral part of this course will be website development, where you will learn the art of crafting visually appealing and functional websites.
3. Fashion Design
This course teaches students how to sketch, visualise and illustrate design ideas using a variety of mediums. They will learn how to manufacture garments using the sewing machine and overlocker. Students will also learn how to pattern cut and create toiles to check the fit. Individually they will design and manufacture their own runway looks for a catwalk show that will take place in May during semester 2. Students will collaborate with other departments to style their own individual looks; music, artistic backdrops and models. Students are expected to purchase their own fabrics for the catwalk but everything else will be provided.
4. Architecture
Studying architecture offers students an opportunity to develop their creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and design skills while making a positive impact on the built environment and exploring a rewarding career. Materials manipulation and testing give students a hands-on practical approach to designing structures. Students also learn to use high-powered software to create floor plans and high-definition renders for their course exhibition.
Elective 4
1. Internships
The internship program is designed to provide students with real work experience in their field of interest, aiming to serve as a guide for making a more informed decision about their chosen career path. Additionally, it offers them the opportunity to understand the selected profession and the activities carried out by a professional of that kind in real life. This experience provides them with a unique opportunity to learn skills beyond academics, gain hands-on experience in their field of interest, and keep a record of their performance in a worklog to continuously improve their activities each session. By the end of the semester, they will have gained unique learning and curricular experience.
2. Music Instrumental
The music program allows students to appreciate the arts from a more objective perspective. In addition to learning to perform various musical instruments and use their own technological tools, students develop important values such as discipline, tenacity, the pursuit of excellence, and teamwork, thus consolidating the student’s emotional-creative side and, above all, structured thinking.
3. French
The Humanitree Diploma in French has been designed to focus on practical and most relevant possible skills and topics. We start the course with an evaluation of pupils' levels and former knowledge before moving on to six big topics: expressing yourself when travelling, talking about your interests, your relationships, and world affairs and the environment. Pupils learn how to describe an image, tell a story and how to deal with everyday life matters. This program allows pupils to practise and develop useful vocabulary through comprehension and expression activities. Every lesson pupils mostly speak and read but they also write and extract information from videos. The program is very adaptable to pupil's abilities and the outcome heavily relies on how much effort and extra practice pupils will put in.
4. Sports
Students will be given the opportunity to opt into either the sports and fitness course or the sports coaching course over two semesters.
The sports fitness course looks at the theory behind physical training with research into each different training method. Once each training method has been broken down in theory lessons, students will then take practicals in each of the training methods to gain a better understanding of the fundamentals and benefits of each training method. The assessment for this course is students will develop a 6-week training plan in their chosen sport and for 6 weeks (12 lessons) students will work on their programme outside applying their chosen training method along with principles of training.
The sports coaching course looks at developing leadership skills through sports over the course of a semester. Students will learn different concepts of coaching and techniques along with developing their own teamwork, communication, problem-solving, self-management and self-confidence skills. The assessment for this course will see students leading different sessions with either their coursemates or other classes with a final session observation for the duration of a lesson in a sport of their choice. In addition to the above, students will also take a unit in diet and nutrition in the kitchen as well as a mini first aid course with CPR and defibrillator training.
5. Art - Printmaking
In Humanitree's High School Diploma Printmaking, students transform into creative alchemists, turning ideas into tangible works of art through printmaking. They'll dive deep into exploring various techniques and materials, building a strong foundation that fuels their artistic vision. The program prioritises hands-on exploration, allowing students to experiment and refine their unique artistic voice. This immersive journey fosters a deep appreciation for the diverse ways printmakers express themselves. By graduation, students emerge with a captivating portfolio and the skills to confidently pursue their artistic endeavours.