The differences between IEB and CAPS,
You might wonder what is IEB and how is it different? Today we’ll be highlighting the fundamental differences between IEB and CAPS learning, and what those distinctions could mean for learners.
One thing that a student can take note of when making decisions about their future, is whether their High School is one that operates under the Independent Examinations Board (IEB), or the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS).
If afforded the opportunity to choose based on one’s circumstances, it is important to note the difference between the two curricula.
The first and foremost difference between the two is that CAPS is operable mostly among public school institutions, whilst the IEB operates under the private school sector.
Both CAPS and IEB are South African-based systems, however, obtaining a National Senior Certificate (NSC) under IEB would allow for international recognition, whilst the state National Senior Certificate would not be internationally recognised.
This however, does not discredit the value of a state obtained NSC, as despite this difference, IEB also bases its curricula around CAPS. The only exception would be that the IEB examinations would be set independently from CAPS exams by the independent board, so the examinations between the two would differ.
Both curricula would lead to a South African qualification, however, the IEB would simply offer slightly more opportunities for the student with its international recognition. The IEB also offers Advanced programmes for subjects that can be equated to the United Kingdom A-level (Advanced level) and AS-level (Advanced Subsidiary level).
These levels can help to ease the transition into University or into the working world outside of school, as obtaining an A-level can operate as a sort of qualification on its own.
