Choosing the right curriculum is one of the most important decisions a parent can make when supporting a child’s education. Understanding how different curricula compare can help ensure your child receives the best possible learning experience. Each curriculum has its own structure, teaching style, subject offerings, and university pathways, and what works well for one learner might not suit another.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between the US K12 Curriculum, International British Curriculum, Pearson Edexcel Curriculum, and South African CAPS Curriculum.
Curriculum Overview
Each curriculum offers a unique structure, philosophy, and approach to learning, all of which can shape a child's educational journey and future opportunities. Understanding how these systems differ is key to selecting the path that best aligns with your child's goals, learning style, and long-term ambitions.
Here is an overview of the four main curricula offered by CambriLearn.
US K12 Curriculum
The US K12 curriculum is built on the Common Core State Standards. It spans from Kindergarten through Grade 12 and is known for its flexible, credit-based progression model.
A key feature of the US curriculum is its emphasis on developing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills through continuous assessment. Rather than relying solely on high-stakes exams, students are evaluated through regular coursework, projects, and participation.
As students progress through high school, they have the opportunity to explore college preparatory subjects such as Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These are university-level classes offered in high school that can earn college credits.
In addition, many students prepare for the SAT or ACT exams, which are commonly required for university admissions in the United States and recognised in various other countries.
International British Curriculum
One of the distinguishing features of the British Curriculum is divided into structured stages known as Early Years, Primary Stage, Foundational Stage, International GCSE, AS Levels, and A Level. Each stage is designed to build upon the previous one, allowing students to progress through a well-structured academic journey that encourages both subject mastery and independent thinking.
One of the distinguishing features of the British Curriculum is its academic depth and early subject specialisation. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, research skills, and independent learning habits that serve them well in higher education.
The curriculum is designed to be internationally adaptable and is taught in schools around the world. Its consistent structure and globally benchmarked assessments make it a popular choice for families seeking high academic standards and recognised qualifications that open doors to universities worldwide.
Pearson Edexcel Curriculum
Pearson Edexcel is another British-based curriculum that closely mirrors the International British Curriculum structure. While the academic content is similar, Pearson Edexcel offers more modular and exam-flexible options, making it particularly appealing in online learning environments.
This curriculum allows students to take assessments in smaller components and, in some cases, retake parts of an exam without needing to repeat the entire course. This flexibility is often preferred in private and international schools that value customisable learning pathways.
CAPS / KABV Curriculum
The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement(CAPS), also referred to as KABV in Afrikaans, is South Africa’s national curriculum. It is managed by the Department of Basic Education and followed by all public schools in the country.
CAPS outlines what should be taught in each subject, for every grade from Grade R to Grade 12. It is highly structured, with clear timelines, learning outcomes, and assessment standards for each academic year. The final year concludes with the National Senior Certificate(NSC), also known as the matric exam.
This curriculum is designed to meet national education standards and provides a consistent framework for learners within the South African context. While it is more prescriptive in nature, it ensures abroad-based education aligned with tertiary entry requirements in South Africa.
Structure and Progression
The table below provides a simplified comparison of the key structural elements of the US, International British, Pearson Edexcel, and CAPS curricula, helping you understand how each system is organised.
Subject Choices and Flexibility
Each curriculum offers a unique approach to subject selection and academic flexibility, which can significantly influence a learner’s engagement and success.
US K12 Curriculum
The US curriculum offers a broad and flexible structure, particularly in the high school years. Students are generally required to take core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. In addition to these, they can choose from a wide range of electives that range from Journalism, to Psychology and even Artificial Intelligence in the World.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available for students who wish to study subjects at a more rigorous, college-level standard. This flexibility allows learners to tailor their education based on their interests and potential university goals.
International British Curriculum
The British system offers subject specialisation from an earlier stage. At the IGCSE level, students typically select between five and seven subjects from a wide offering, including both core and optional subjects.
In the A Level stage, students usually narrow their focus to three or four subjects aligned with their intended university pathway. This level of specialisation is beneficial for students with clearly defined academic strengths or interests, though it does require more focused decision-making at an earlier age.
Pearson Edexcel
Pearson Edexcel offers a similar selection of subjects to the International British Curriculum. It provides additional flexibility through modular assessments, which can allow students to retake specific components rather than entire exams. This makes it particularly adaptable for learners who benefit from more controlled pacing.
CAPS / KABV
In the South African CAPS curriculum, subject selection in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase (Grades 10 to 12)includes a mix of compulsory and elective subjects. Learners must take two official languages, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, and Life Orientation. These are combined with a minimum of three optional subjects from a set list, which may include subjects such as Physical Sciences, Geography, Accounting, Business Studies, or Life Sciences.
While the curriculum does offer some choice, it follows a more fixed structure compared to international systems. Subject combinations are guided by national education policy, and progression is based on both internal assessments and final matric examinations. This approach provides consistency and alignment with South African university requirements but offers limited flexibility for customisation.
Learning Style and Teaching Approach
Understanding how a curriculum is taught can be just as important as what is being taught. Each system brings its own approach to learning, assessment, and classroom engagement, which can significantly impact how a child experiences their education.
● US Curriculum: the US curriculum places strong emphasis on critical thinking, participation, and project-based learning. Lessons are often interactive and designed to encourage discussion, collaboration, and creativity. Students are encouraged to explore topics through real-world applications, research assignments, and group projects. This approach supports a broad skillset, preparing learners for both university and the workplace.
● International British and Pearson Edexcel: both the International British and Pearson Edexcel curricula follow amore academic and exam-focused approach, particularly in the upper years. They emphasise analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and content mastery. Students are expected to engage deeply with subject material and develop independent study skills. While coursework and practical components are included in some subjects, formal examinations remain the primary method of assessment.
● CAPS / KABV: the CAPS curriculum is known for its content-heavy, teacher-led delivery. It follows a detailed syllabus with defined learning outcomes for each grade, ensuring a consistent teaching standard across schools. Lessons often focus on textbook learning, memorisation, and exam preparation. While this approach provides structure and clear guidance, it may offer fewer opportunities for open-ended exploration or alternative learning styles.
Recognition and University Entrance
Each curriculum opens different pathways for university entrance, both locally and internationally. Understanding how qualifications are recognised can help families plan for future academic or career goals.
● US Curriculum: the US curriculum is recognised by universities in the United States and many international institutions. Students typically earn a high school diploma and may submit SAT or ACT scores for university entry. Advanced Placement (AP) courses can further strengthen applications and may count towards university credit. Its flexible structure suits learners aiming for North American or international study.
● International British Curriculum: the International British Curriculum is globally respected, with IGCSEs and A Levels accepted by universities in the UK, Europe, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and more. A Levels are often used for direct entry into undergraduate programmes, while AS Levels may support foundation course applications. The British Curriculum is valued for its academic depth and strong international reputation.
● Pearson Edexcel Curriculum: Pearson Edexcel offers the same level of global recognition as International British Curriculum. Its IGCSEs and A Levels are accepted by universities worldwide and support a wide range of study options.
● CAPS / KABV Curriculum: the CAPS curriculum leads to the National Senior Certificate (NSC), recognised by South African universities. Some international institutions also accept the NSC, though they may require additional entry criteria such as bridging programmes or language tests. Recognition varies by country and institution.
Online School Compatibility
Each curriculum has unique features that influence how well it adapts to an online learning environment, and CambriLearn has carefully designed its offering to ensure that all curricula are both accessible and effective for remote learners.
The US curriculum, with its credit-based structure and emphasis on continuous assessment, lends itself well to online learning. It allows students to progress at their own pace, complete assignments digitally, and engage in interactive, project-based tasks.
Both the International British and Pearson Edexcel curricula are more exam-focused, but their clear structure and subject specialisation suit learners who thrive with independent study.
The CAPS and KABV curriculum, while traditionally classroom-based, can also be effectively delivered online with the right support systems in place. It follows a year-based progression with clearly defined outcomes and assessments.
CambriLearn is an accredited online school and as such has ensured that each of these curricula is fully compatible with online schooling by providing a structured virtual learning environment that includes live lessons, live chat support, interactive resources, and regular assessments. In addition, students receive personalised feedback, academic tracking, and access to support from qualified teachers.
Whether learners are studying towards a US high school diploma, British A Levels, or the South African NSC, CambriLearn offers the tools and guidance needed to succeed in an online setting.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing
Selecting the right curriculum is a deeply personal decision and depends on your child’s academic goals, learning preferences, and your family’s future plans. While all the curricula offered by CambriLearn are internationally recognised and academically sound, understanding which one aligns best with your child’s needs can make a significant difference in their educational experience.
Here are some key factors to consider.
● Educational goals: consider where your child is likely to study after school. If they plan to attend a local South African university, the CAPS curriculum may be the most straightforward path. If they’re aiming for international institutions in the UK, Europe, North America, or elsewhere, International British, Pearson Edexcel, or the US curriculum may provide better alignment with admission requirements.
● Learning style and subject interests: every student learns differently. The US curriculum suits learners who prefer interactive, continuous learning with varied subject options. The International British and Pearson edexcel curricula are ideal for students who enjoy academic depth and want to specialise early. CAPS is better for learners who perform well in structured, teacher-led environments.
● Preferred assessment type: the US system incorporates ongoing assessment through assignments, quizzes, and projects. British curricula rely heavily on final exams, although Pearson offers some modular flexibility. CAPS also culminates in final-year exams, with less focus on continuous assessment.
● Long-term relocation or emigration plans: if your family may relocate, an international curriculum like the British, Pearson, or the US system can offer a smoother transition and greater global acceptance. These curricula are widely recognised and offered in schools across the world.
● Availability of support and resources: online learning success depends heavily on the support available. CambriLearn offers dedicated resources, experienced teachers, live support, and academic guidance across all its curriculum offerings, ensuring students feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Choosing the right curriculum can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. Contact a CambriLearn Education Consultant today for personalised guidance on which curriculum best suits your child’s needs and future goals.
