Celebrating the IBDP Class of 2026: Kaedan

This year, our 2026 graduates achieved outstanding results in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), with an impressive average score of 35.7 points—well above the global average of 30.88.

15% of learners scored 40 points or above, and 62% scored 35 points or more, placing them among the world’s top-performing IB learners.

As a cohort, they also achieved results that were, on average, 4.3 points higher than their initial predicted grades at the beginning of the programme.

Among these exceptional achievers is Kaedan, who achieved an outstanding score of 44 points.

Congratulations to Kaedan on achieving an outstanding score of 44 in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Kaedan will be heading to the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) to study Mechanical Engineering on a full tuition scholarship, combining his passion for Mathematics and Physics with a desire to solve real-world challenges.

“I chose Mechanical Engineering because, as someone passionate about Maths and Physics, I want to apply my knowledge to solve real-world problems, especially those relating to fossil fuels and renewable energy. Studying Mechanical Engineering will help me understand how these systems work and how they can be improved and implemented in real-world contexts.”

Having joined Nexus midway through his IGCSE journey, Kaedan quickly found himself part of a welcoming community that encouraged him to grow both academically and personally.

“I always felt that the Nexus community was pushing me to succeed. The teachers were welcoming and gave me valuable advice that helped me perform at my best. They also made unfamiliar topics and tasks more accessible, allowing me to understand complex ideas much more easily.”

Throughout his time at Nexus, Kaedan formed strong relationships with teachers who challenged and supported him every step of the way. He credits Ms Lisa, who taught him Further Pure Mathematics and Mathematics AA Higher Level for three years, with helping him build the confidence to tackle one of the IBDP’s most demanding subjects. He also thanks Ms Karianne for making Psychology engaging while providing invaluable feedback on his assessments, Internal Assessment and Extended Essay.

Among Kaedan’s favourite lessons were two subjects that challenged him in unique ways: Physics and Psychology.

“One of my favourite lessons was Physics. As one of the most challenging subjects I studied, every lesson was insightful and helpful, and it was fun hosting revision sessions with friends after class. I also really enjoyed Psychology. Having never studied Psychology before, I found the theories fascinating, and the classes were always lively with lots of discussion.”

Both also helped develop skills he will carry with him into university and beyond.

“Physics taught me how to apply knowledge in unfamiliar situations, which will be essential as I pursue Engineering. Psychology taught me to better understand the behaviours and interactions I see in everyday life and why people behave the way they do.”

Beyond the classroom, Kaedan embraced opportunities to deepen his interest in engineering while preparing for university.

“Over the last two years, I made sure to take every opportunity I could to try new experiences and participate in engineering-related projects, including STEM competitions such as Science Castle Singapore, to highlight my curiosity and passion for the field. I also worked closely with Ms Aine, my university guidance counsellor, to make sure I was presenting my experiences in the most effective way possible in my university applications.”

Alongside these experiences, Kaedan appreciated the balance that extracurricular activities brought to the demands of the IBDP. Whether playing badminton or performing with the Secondary Jazz/Pop Ensemble, they gave him the opportunity to unwind, spend time with friends and enjoy life beyond the classroom.

Among his many memories at Nexus, one experience stands out above the rest.

“My favourite memory would have to be my Year 12 CAS trip to Cambodia. It was my only overseas school trip because of COVID-19, and it was an exciting experience from start to finish. I especially enjoyed playing football and singing pop songs with the students in the village we stayed in. It was an experience I’ll never forget.”

As he looks ahead to the next chapter, Kaedan hopes future Nexus learners remember that growth comes from embracing challenges rather than avoiding them.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help or make mistakes. Those are the moments where you learn the most. Nobody starts out perfect. The IBDP isn’t one long marathon. I see it as 50 mini sprints that make up one gruelling marathon, so it’s important to stay on top of your deadlines and keep putting your best foot forward.”

With an outstanding IBDP result and an exciting future in engineering ahead of him, Kaedan leaves Nexus ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that await. We wish him every success as he begins this exciting new chapter.