Cambridge Programmes
HFSE International School is Cambridge‑Certified for Lower Secondary, offering Secondary One and Two students a globally recognised curriculum, personalised learning, and a clear pathway towards IGCSE.
Cambridge Education Programmes Information
Assessment and Grading
At HFSE International School, assessment is designed to support meaningful learning and student growth. We believe assessment should not only measure academic performance, but also help develop character, resilience, and essential life skills.
Our assessment system is guided by international best practices and ensures transparency, fairness, and consistency for all learners.
Grading System
Major Subjects
Score
Descriptor
90 – 100
Outstanding
85 – 89
Very Satisfactory
80 – 84
Satisfactory
75 – 79
Fairly Satisfactory
Below 75
Below Minimum Expectations
Other Subjects
Grade
Description
Score Equivalent
A
Fully demonstrated required skills
90 – 100
B
Demonstrated most required skills
85 – 89
C
Fairly demonstrated required skills
80 – 84
D
Limited demonstration of required skills
75 – 79
IP
In Progress
———–
E
Exempted
———–
Modules Taught
English
International Syllabus
Mathematics
International Syllabus
Science
International Syllabus
Humanities
International Syllabus
Global Perspectives
International Syllabus
Computing
International Syllabus
Art and Design
International Syllabus
Co-Curricular Activities (CCA)
International Syllabus
Duration
12 months (full-time)
Type of Certificate Awarded
Certificate of Completion
Requirement for Graduation
- Academic competency (75% passing grade)
- Minimum 80% attendance required
- Adherence to behavioural standards and character guidelines
Mode of Assessment
12 months (full-time)
Commencement Date
14 January 2026
End Date
Secondary One to Four: 20 November 2026
Modules Learning Objectives
English
The English module develops learners’ proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through exposure to a wide range of texts and communication tasks. Students deepen their understanding of language by analysing meaning, exploring vocabulary and structure, and responding creatively and analytically. They also practise expressing ideas clearly in discussion and written work, strengthening both accuracy and confidence in communication.
Learning Objectives:
• Develop clear and effective communication skills for different audiences and purposes.
• Strengthen comprehension and interpretation of literary and informational texts.
• Produce well-structured, coherent, and creative written work.
• Participate confidently in discussions, presentations, and collaborative tasks.
• Apply critical thinking and reflection in responding to texts and ideas.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Mathematics
The Mathematics module builds conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving skills across number, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data. Students explore mathematical patterns, relationships, and models through guided inquiry and real-world applications. They develop logical reasoning, accuracy, and perseverance by working through progressively challenging tasks.
Learning Objectives:
• Apply mathematical reasoning to solve routine and non-routine problems.
• Use algebraic, geometric, and statistical skills to model and interpret information.
• Communicate mathematical ideas using appropriate notation and vocabulary.
• Analyse graphs, patterns, and data to draw informed conclusions.
• Demonstrate confidence, accuracy, and resilience in mathematical tasks.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Science
The Science module helps learners understand how the natural and physical world works by exploring key ideas in biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth science. Students develop curiosity and practical skills through hands-on activities, experiments, and investigations. They learn to think scientifically, use evidence, and recognise how scientific knowledge connects to everyday life and global issues.
Learning Objectives:
• Study the main strands of science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth & Space.
• Develop practical and inquiry skills through experiments and investigations.
• Interpret data, draw conclusions, and use scientific language accurately.
• Understand how science relates to real-world contexts, environmental issues, and sustainability.
• Build confidence in applying scientific ideas to explain everyday phenomena
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Humanities
Global Perspectives
The Global Perspectives module encourages learners to explore real-world issues such as identity, environment, culture, and global challenges. Students investigate different viewpoints, carry out research, and work collaboratively to better understand the world and their role within it. Through inquiry and reflection, they learn to think critically and communicate their ideas clearly.
Learning Objectives:
• Explore global topics using research and inquiry skills.
• Evaluate different perspectives using reliable sources.
• Work collaboratively to investigate questions and present findings.
• Develop critical thinking, communication, and reflection skills.
• Strengthen cultural awareness and responsible global citizenship.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Computing
The Computing module introduces learners to computational thinking and the responsible use of technology. Students learn how digital systems work, practise using software tools, and explore basic programming concepts. They develop confidence in using technology safely and creatively to solve problems and present ideas.
Learning Objectives:
• Apply computational thinking to break down and solve problems.
• Use digital tools to research, create content, and present information.
• Understand basic programming ideas through simple coding activities.
• Practise safe, responsible, and ethical use of technology.
• Build digital confidence as thoughtful and capable technology users.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Art and Design
The Art and Design module encourages creative thinking and visual expression. Learners explore line, colour, form, and texture while experimenting with different materials and techniques. They study artworks from various cultures to understand how artists communicate ideas, emotions, and cultural identity.
Learning Objectives:
• Create original artworks using a range of media and visual techniques.
• Explore visual elements such as colour, shape, pattern, and texture.
• Respond to and analyse artworks from different cultures and periods.
• Communicate ideas and emotions through artistic expression.
• Reflect on artistic processes and develop confidence in creative work.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Co-curricular Activities (CCA)
This subject is designed to enhance students’ development across multiple dimensions, focusing on intellectual growth, interpersonal skills, and bodily-kinesthetic intelligence. Through a diverse range of co-curricular activities, students will engage in experiences that promote mental acuity, foster effective communication and collaboration, and refine their physical coordination and expression. These activities are integral to achieving holistic development, providing a well-rounded educational experience that balances academic learning with practical, hands-on engagement. By participating in these activities, students will cultivate a more comprehensive skill set, encouraging personal growth, creativity, and a balanced approach to their overall education. This approach ensures that students not only excel academically but also thrive in their social and physical interactions, preparing them for a well-rounded and successful future.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face
Physical Education and Health (PHE)
Physical Education and Health enables the students develop an understanding and appreciation of their physical body and learn ways on how to optimize their health. The course offers experiential learning for learners to adopt an active life for fitness and lifelong health. The knowledge, skills and understanding which include physical and health literacy competencies support them in accessing, synthesizing and evaluating information; making informed decisions; enhancing and advocating their own as well as others’ fitness and health. This course on exercise for fitness enables the learner to set goals, monitor one’s participation in aerobic and muscle- and bone-strengthening activities and constantly evaluate how well one has integrated this into one’s personal lifestyle. It consists of an array of offerings, which learners can choose from.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face
Pastoral Ministry and Personal Development
This subject focuses on two parts: pastoral ministry and personal development. The first part will focus on becoming more aware of the developmental stage that they are in, for them to better understand themselves and the significant people around them. Using the experiential learning approach, each module invites students to explore specific themes in their development. Personal reflections, sharing, and lectures help reveal and articulate relevant concepts, theories, and tools in different areas in psychology. The second part of the course will focus on guiding and assisting students to create and choose better decision or course of thought that may lead them to outstanding action; enabling every student to develop their potentials and help them achieve their aspirations in life; helping every student to endure and make every circumstance a positive experience looking at it as a blessing; restoring every student to the person whose image and likeness is God through appropriate coaching programme in the context of a happy family; and establishing happy relationship and mending those which are otherwise.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face
English
The English module develops learners’ proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through exposure to a wide range of texts and communication tasks. Students deepen their understanding of language by analysing meaning, exploring vocabulary and structure, and responding creatively and analytically. They also practise expressing ideas clearly in discussion and written work, strengthening both accuracy and confidence in communication.
Learning Objectives:
• Develop clear and effective communication skills for different audiences and
purposes
• Strengthen comprehension and interpretation of literary and informational texts.
• Produce well-structured, coherent, and creative written work.
• Participate confidently in discussions, presentations, and collaborative tasks.
• Apply critical thinking and reflection in responding to texts and ideas.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Mathematics
The Mathematics module builds conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving skills across number, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data. Students explore mathematical patterns, relationships, and models through guided inquiry and real-world applications. They develop logical reasoning, accuracy, and perseverance by working through progressively challenging tasks.
Learning Objectives:
• Apply mathematical reasoning to solve routine and non-routine problems.
• Use algebraic, geometric, and statistical skills to model and interpret information.
• Communicate mathematical ideas using appropriate notation and vocabulary.
• Analyse graphs, patterns, and data to draw informed conclusions.
• Demonstrate confidence, accuracy, and resilience in mathematical tasks.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Science
The Science module helps learners understand how the natural and physical world works by exploring key ideas in biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth science. Students develop curiosity and practical skills through hands-on activities, experiments, and investigations. They learn to think scientifically, use evidence, and recognise how scientific knowledge connects to everyday life and global issues.
Learning Objectives:
• Study the main strands of science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth & Space.
• Develop practical and inquiry skills through experiments and investigations.
• Interpret data, draw conclusions, and use scientific language accurately.
• Understand how science relates to real-world contexts, environmental issues, and sustainability.
• Build confidence in applying scientific ideas to explain everyday phenomena.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Humanities
Global Perspectives
The Global Perspectives module encourages learners to explore real-world issues such as identity, environment, culture, and global challenges. Students investigate different viewpoints, carry out research, and work collaboratively to better understand the world and their role within it. Through inquiry and reflection, they learn to think critically and communicate their ideas clearly.
Learning Objectives:
• Explore global topics using research and inquiry skills.
• Evaluate different perspectives using reliable sources.
• Work collaboratively to investigate questions and present findings.
• Develop critical thinking, communication, and reflection skills.
• Strengthen cultural awareness and responsible global citizenship.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Computing
The Computing module introduces learners to computational thinking and the responsible use of technology. Students learn how digital systems work, practise using software tools, and explore basic programming concepts. They develop confidence in using technology safely and creatively to solve problems and present ideas.
Learning Objectives:
• Apply computational thinking to break down and solve problems.
• Use digital tools to research, create content, and present information.
• Understand basic programming ideas through simple coding activities.
• Practise safe, responsible, and ethical use of technology.
• Build digital confidence as thoughtful and capable technology users.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Art and Design
The Art and Design module encourages creative thinking and visual expression. Learners explore line, colour, form, and texture while experimenting with different materials and techniques. They study artworks from various cultures to understand how artists communicate ideas, emotions, and cultural identity.
Learning Objectives:
• Create original artworks using a range of media and visual techniques.
• Explore visual elements such as colour, shape, pattern, and texture.
• Respond to and analyse artworks from different cultures and periods.
• Communicate ideas and emotions through artistic expression.
• Reflect on artistic processes and develop confidence in creative work.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face or Asynchronous Learning (Home-based Learning)
Co-curricular Activities (CCA)
This subject is designed to enhance students’ development across multiple dimensions, focusing on intellectual growth, interpersonal skills, and bodily-kinaesthetic intelligence. Through a diverse range of co-curricular activities, students will engage in experiences that promote mental acuity, foster effective communication and collaboration, and refine their physical coordination and expression. These activities are integral to achieving holistic development, providing a well-rounded educational experience that balances academic learning with practical, hands-on engagement. By participating in these activities, students will cultivate a more comprehensive skill set, encouraging personal growth, creativity, and a balanced approach to their overall education. This approach ensures that students not only excel academically but also thrive in their social and physical interactions, preparing them for a well-rounded and successful future.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face
Physical Education and Health (PHE)
Physical Education and Health enables the students develop an understanding and appreciation of their physical body and learn ways on how to optimize their health. The course offers experiential learning for learners to adopt an active life for fitness and lifelong health. The knowledge, skills and understanding which include physical and health literacy competencies support them in accessing, synthesizing and evaluating information; making informed decisions; enhancing and advocating their own as well as others’ fitness and health. This course on exercise for fitness enables the learner to set goals, monitor one’s participation in aerobic and muscle- and bone-strengthening activities and constantly evaluate how well one has integrated this into one’s personal lifestyle. It consists of an array of offerings, which learners can choose from.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face
Pastoral Ministry and Personal Development
This subject focuses on two parts: pastoral ministry and personal development. The first part will focus on becoming more aware of the developmental stage that they are in, for them to better understand themselves and the significant people around them. Using the experiential learning approach, each module invites students to explore specific themes in their development. Personal reflections, sharing, and lectures help reveal and articulate relevant concepts, theories, and tools in different areas in psychology. The second part of the course will focus on guiding and assisting students to create and choose better decision or course of thought that may lead them to outstanding action; enabling every student to develop their potentials and help them achieve their aspirations in life; helping every student to endure and make every circumstance a positive experience looking at it as a blessing; restoring every student to the person whose image and likeness is God through appropriate coaching programme in the context of a happy family; and establishing happy relationship and mending those which are otherwise.
Mode of Delivery: Face to Face
Our Assessment Principles
HFSE International School assessments are guided by four key principles:
Validity
Assessments measure the intended learning outcomes. Tasks are designed to assess understanding, thinking skills, and application — not just memorisation.
Reliability
Assessment results are consistent and dependable, regardless of timing or assessor. This is supported through well-designed tasks and clear marking standards.
Fairness
Students are assessed based on what has been taught. Assessments are designed to be free from bias and provide equal opportunity for success.
Practicality (Utility)
Assessments are meaningful and manageable within available time and resources, supporting both learning and evaluation purposes.
Assessment Methods
To support holistic development, HFSE uses a variety of assessment approaches, including:
- Class or online discussions
- Project work (individual or group)
- Research tasks
- Debates
- Presentations
- Daily assignments (written or oral)
- Class tests and quizzes
- Practical tests (where applicable)
- End-of-course examinations
- Homework
Beyond Academic Results
At HFSE International School, assessments — both written and performance-based — are an integral part of student development.
Through the assessment process, students develop important values such as:
- Perseverance
- Hard work
- Integrity
- Commitment
- Discipline
Students also strengthen key future-ready skills, including:
- Problem-solving
- Focus and resilience
- Creativity
- Communication
- Analytical thinking
- Logical reasoning
Preparing HFSEans for Life
HFSE International School prepares students not only for academic success, but also for life’s challenges. By developing strong character, skills, and resilience, HFSEans are equipped to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the global community.
Minimum Entry Requirements
- Age: 12 years old
Language: Applicants must have achieved at least a Grade of 75 (fairly satisfactory) or equivalent in English at the Primary Six level from any recognised education certification. The requirement for a minimum grade of 75 in English from primary education is based on the need to ensure students possess a basic level of proficiency in the English language, which is essential for understanding and succeeding in secondary-level courses. This helps ensure that students are adequately prepared for more advanced studies, especially in courses where the medium of instruction is English.
The term “recognised institution” refers to any institution or school that is officially accredited by the relevant educational authorities, such as the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines or equivalent bodies in other countries. This includes public and private schools that have been authorized to issue certifications for completion of primary education.
The following grading legend is based on the Department of Education in the Philippines, which has been adopted by HFSE International School:
Rating | Score Range |
Outstanding | 90 to 100 |
Very Satisfactory | 85 to 89 |
Satisfactory | 80 to 84 |
Fairly Satisfactory | 75 to 79 |
Below Minimum Expectations | Below 75 |
- Academic: Applicants will be required to take a school-administered entrance examination in Mathematics and English. For students applying to the Secondary One course, the entrance examination is aligned with the Primary Six curriculum. The tests consist of multiple-choice and problem-solving questions in Mathematics and comprehension and writing tasks in English. A passing score of 50% or equivalent in both subjects is required for regular enrolment.
- Conditional Enrolment: Students must meet the specified academic standards for admission. If a student does not achieve a passing score on the assessment, conditional enrolment may be granted, requiring them to attend additional learning support or tuition. This approach ensures that all students receive the necessary assistance to meet proficiency levels and succeed in their educational journey. Students admitted under conditional enrolment will undergo regular evaluations each term. Based on their progress and performance, they will be informed whether supplementary classes can be discontinued.
- Eligibility for conditional enrolment is determined through a comprehensive review of academic records from the Primary Six level and the student’s performance in entrance examinations. A one-on-one interview with the student and parent(s) is conducted to assess the student’s readiness and commitment to meeting the school’s academic and behavioral expectations. For conditionally enrolled students, parents and students must agree to a support plan where progress in academic targets is monitored regularly.
- Students whose scores fall below 50% in any subject are required to attend tuition as a condition of their enrolment. Parents must enrol their child in tuition for at least one semester and submit proof of the student’s ongoing participation. This requirement ensures targeted intervention for students to address specific academic gaps and improve their performance in subjects where they underperformed.
- For students with additional learning needs, a one-week trial period is conducted to assess their specific requirements. Based on the trial results, a tailored Learning Support Program (LSP) is developed, with the frequency of sessions determined by the student’s needs. The LSP includes specialized weekly intervention sessions, behavioural therapy, and access to additional learning resources. These measures are designed to help students meet academic expectations and provide them with a supportive environment for success.
- Conditionally enrolled students undergo regular performance monitoring throughout their first semester. Monthly formative assessments are conducted to track progress in subjects where the student is receiving support, such as tuition. If the student’s grades improve to an acceptable level (at least 75%), the subject teacher makes a recommendation to the Secondary School OIC to discontinue the additional support. Upon endorsement by the OIC, the principal approves the recommendation, and parents are formally informed about the discontinuation of tuition.
- If a student’s grades and performance in the supported subject continue to struggle despite interventions, tuition will be required to continue. The school ensures that learning gaps are addressed effectively by tailoring the school’s in-house Learning Support Program (LSP) to meet the student’s needs and providing ongoing targeted assistance. This process guarantees students have the resources needed to achieve their academic goals.
- Age: 13 years old
- Language: Applicants must have achieved at least a Grade of 75 (fairly satisfactory) or equivalent in English at the Secondary One level from any recognised education certification. The requirement for a minimum grade of 75 in English from the Secondary One level is based on the need to ensure students possess a basic level of proficiency in the English language, which is essential for understanding and succeeding in secondary-level courses. This helps ensure that students are adequately prepared for more advanced studies, especially in courses where the medium of instruction is English.
- The term “recognised institution” refers to any institution or school that is officially accredited by the relevant educational authorities, such as the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines or equivalent bodies in other countries. This includes public and private schools that have been authorized to issue certifications for the completion of secondary one course.
- The following grading legend is based on the Department of Education in the Philippines, which has been adopted by HFSE International School
Rating | Score Range |
Outstanding | 90 to 100 |
Very Satisfactory | 85 to 89 |
Satisfactory | 80 to 84 |
Fairly Satisfactory | 75 to 79 |
Below Minimum Expectations | Below 75 |
- Academic: Applicants will be required to take a school-administered entrance examination in Mathematics and English. For students applying to the Secondary Two course, the entrance examination is aligned with the Secondary One curriculum. The tests consist of multiple-choice and problem-solving questions in Mathematics and comprehension and writing tasks in English. A passing score of 50% or equivalent in both subjects is required for regular enrolment.
- Conditional Enrolment: Students must meet the specified academic standards for admission. If a student does not achieve a passing score on the assessment, conditional enrolment may be granted, requiring them to attend additional learning support or tuition. This approach ensures that all students receive the necessary assistance to meet proficiency levels and succeed in their educational journey. Students admitted under conditional enrolment will undergo regular evaluations each term. Based on their progress and performance, they will be informed whether supplementary classes can be discontinued.
- Eligibility for conditional enrolment is determined through a comprehensive review of academic records from the Secondary One level and the student’s performance in entrance examinations. A one-on-one interview with the student and parent(s) is conducted to assess the student’s readiness and commitment to meeting the school’s academic and behavioral expectations. For conditionally enrolled students, parents and students must agree to a support plan where progress in academic targets is monitored regularly.
- Students whose scores fall below 50% in any subject are required to attend tuition as a condition of their enrolment.
- Parents must enrol their child in tuition for at least one semester and submit proof of the student’s ongoing participation. This requirement ensures targeted intervention for students to address specific academic gaps and improve their performance in subjects where they underperformed.
- For students with additional learning needs, a one-week trial period is conducted to assess their specific requirements. Based on the trial results, a tailored Learning Support Program (LSP) is developed, with the frequency of sessions determined by the student’s needs. The LSP includes specialized weekly intervention sessions, behavioural therapy, and access to additional learning resources. These measures are designed to help students meet academic expectations and provide them with a supportive environment for success.
- Conditionally enrolled students undergo regular performance monitoring throughout their first semester. Monthly formative assessments are conducted to track progress in subjects where the student is receiving support, such as tuition. If the student’s grades improve to an acceptable level (at least 75%), the subject teacher makes a recommendation to the Secondary School OIC to discontinue the additional support. Upon endorsement by the OIC, the principal approves the recommendation, and parents are formally informed about the discontinuation of tuition.
- If a student’s grades and performance in the supported subject continue to struggle despite interventions, tuition will be required to continue. The school ensures that learning gaps are addressed effectively by tailoring the school’s in-house Learning Support Program (LSP) to meet the student’s needs and providing ongoing targeted assistance. This process guarantees students have the resources needed to achieve their academic goals.
- In addition to monthly monitoring, rigorous evaluations are conducted at the end of each term. These include mid-term evaluations with a minimum score requirement of 75% for progression, detailed feedback from subject teachers, and termly parent-teacher meetings to discuss the student’s overall progress. This structured approach ensures that conditionally enrolled students are supported effectively while maintaining the school’s academic integrity.
