The International Schools Network
The International Schools Network is a podcast for educators at international schools to connect, share ideas and inspiration, and discuss key topics in education today. Episodes feature conversations from within the ISN community and are released on a weekly basis. Listeners are invited to join the growing network and follow its updates on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Flipboard.
Episodes
5 takes on building confidence in young boys
In this episode of the 5 takes podcast, Stephen Feeney, Founder of the Flourishing Man, shares his insights on how to build confidence and best support boys in school.5 takes:1) Confidence and positive behaviour go hand-in-hand.2) A lack of positive role models is a myth3) Celebrate strengths and not behaviour4) Boys need safe spaces for honest conversations5) The term 'Toxic Masculinity' needs to
5 Takes on Transitioning from the Classroom into Leadership
In this episode of 5 Takes, international school leader Kenneth Bence shares five practical strategies educators can use to take their first steps into school leadership.Take 1: Make it known what your goals are and seek out a mentor Make your leadership aspirations known and seek a mentor who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities aligned with your goals.Take 2: Facilitate workshops and
ISN in Conversation with Quest Progress: Smarter Assessment, Better Outcomes
Michael Southern-Augustine unpacks the importance of effective assessment and feedback in international schools, why it matters, the challenges schools face, and, importantly, how to do it well in practice.If you are interested in booking a meeting with Quest please register your interest here: https://r1.dotdigital-pages.com/p/6U3A-M74/quest-isnKey Takeaways 1. Data shifts teaching from reactive
5 Takes on Connection as Strategy: Leading School Mental Health in a Disconnected World
In this episode, Anna Bateman from Halcyon Education explores how schools can rebuild trust, strengthen relationships, and use leadership, data, and collaboration to create a sustainable culture of wellbeing for staff and students.Take 1, We’re in a Trust Recession “Trust recession” describes the decline in confidence across schools. Parents trust schools less, staff trust leadership less (Teacher
5 Takes on Building Female Networks
1. Be curious: learn about yourself Building strong networks and relationships starts with understanding yourself. What are your key strengths, and how can you use them effectively? Are there aspects of your personality you could develop further? As Socrates advised, “Know thyself.”Tools like the VIA Character Strengths survey and the 16 Personalities assessment can offer useful insights into your
5 Takes on Creating a culture of Mental Health Support
Take 1) Creating a Culture of mental health support Whatever role you play in a school or organization, it’s important for you and everyone you work with to be someone willing to act if a person may be in need of mental health support. This can be through starting a committee, facilitating a workshop, writing newsletters or any other way you can communicate and remind people of what to do if you a
5 Takes on Cultivating Belonging in Schools.
Drawing on her new book, Hannah Wilson, Director of The Belonging Effect, shares five practical insights on building belonging in schools.Take 1) Introduction: Why should we care about DEIB?It does not have to happen to you to matter to you.Understanding power and privilege.We need to stand up, speak out, show support for issues impacting others.Take 2) Belonging in Society: How do we develop it?I
5 takes on AI for Students to Enhance Learning
Episode 1, 2026: John Dolman, The AI English Teacher – 5 Ways Students Can Use AI to LearnIn this episode, we sit down with John Dolman, The AI English Teacher, who shares five practical ways students can use AI to enhance learning rather than shortcut it.Take 1: Have the Dialogue Start by simply talking with students about their AI use. Focus groups and surveys help uncover whether students are u
ISN Live Panel Discussion: What is True? The Essential Role of Media Literacy in Schools.
In this panel discussion, our experts highlight the impact of deepfakes, algorithm influence and provide supportive strategies to help students navigate the flood of misinformation online.Speakers:John Mikton – Digital Learning Facilitator, International School of GenevaJohn Dolman – The AI English Teacher; Media & English Teacher, Ponteland International SchoolChristopher Blackwood – Head of
ISN Live Panel Discussion: The Anxious Generation
Safeguarding, mental health and well-being experts analyse the findings of Jonathan Haidt's ground-breaking book. SpeakersSian Jorgensen: Safeguarding Consultant and Trainer, International Schools Specialist, ©SAFE Interviewing Trainer Hayley Wilson: Deputy Head of Secondary School (Pastoral Community and Wellbeing) at Kellet School, The British International School in Hong Kong Anna Bateman: Seni
ISN Training Forum; Personalised CPD for Teachers' Growth & School Success
In this session, international school leaders and experts, Mark Leppard MBE, Damian Bacchoo, Jarrett Brown and Jamie Ganley delve into Personalised CPD for Teachers' Growth and School Success, sponsored by our partner The National College.Personalised CPD is reshaping how international schools approach professional learning. When educators take ownership of their growth and leaders empower their t
5 takes on Supporting Non-Native English learners in a Non-Native English Environment.
In this episode, Jarrett Brown, Secondary Principal at ISA International Education Group, shares best practices for fostering meaningful and engaging language learning.Take 1) Go back to basics: Get students to practice in the classroom as much as possible because they won’t have opportunities elsewhere. Take 2) Library meets students' expectations: Having books appropriate for the language level
5 takes on how positive leadership creates flourishing schools
In this episode, Abigail Alexis-Olubuyide, Head of Primary at The British School of Beijing, explores how Martin Seligman’s PERMA Model can be used to foster a culture of flourishing.5 takes1) Positive Emotions Create Upward Spirals2) Engagement Flows Through Strengths3) High-Trust Relationships Underpins Flourishing4) Connect to a Higher Purpose Through Meaning5) Frame Accomplishments as Progress
5 Takes on Bringing Wellbeing into Careers Education
Cliona McMenamin, Head of Careers and Teacher of Mathematics at Dubai College, shares the importance of embedding well-being in careers education.1) Start with Self-Discovery, Not Decision-MakingMost careers programmes jump too quickly to the “what” (university courses or job titles) before helping students understand the “who.”When students explore their strengths, values and motivations first, t
5 takes on The Power of Resilient Rest
In this episode of 5 Takes, counsellor and coach Micheline Foss explores how educators can recharge by recognising what supports them and replenishing areas that need care.Breaking Down Resilience: The 5 Buckets Resilience isn’t one thing—it has 5 capacities:Physical/Behavioral: Habits to overcome difficulty Cognitive: Ability to interpret and manage events Emotional: Tolerance for negative emotio
5 takes on investing in your staff and harnessing a growth mindset
In this episode, Martin Boother, Vice Principal at Azerbaijan British College, shares five key takes on investing in your teams and unlocking the full potential of every staff member.5 Takes:1) Getting to know them as people not just staff members: 2) Listening needs to be your superpower3) Don’t look for what isn’t there but what is4) It’s not all about you - build them up5) Be prepared to let th
Ep 92: 5 takes on the essentials for supporting multilingual learners
In this latest episode of 5 Takes, Head of Curriculum Support, Daniela Selhuber shares practical strategies for supporting multilingual learners.Take 1: Establish a Clear, Shared Framework for Language Development Clarity and consistency are key. Schools that adopt frameworks such as the Bell Foundation EAL Assessment Framework or WIDA can move from reactive provision to proactive and targeted sup
Ep 91: 5 Takes on Strengthening Literacy Through Design Thinking
Experienced Languages and English International Teacher, Suzzanne Pautler shares 5 takes on how to enact design-thinking to bring learning to life.Take 1) Because of design thinking, my students read, wrote, and spoke with a purpose. Title: Student Choice and Voice. Students focused on actual problems or issues they witnessed in their daily lives at school and at home. In their process to problem-
Ep 90: 5 takes on leading when you're the new one in
1) Do Your Homework as much as you can before you arrive: 1-2 minute explanation: Read up as much as you can in the appointment process and certainly in the time you have before you take up the role from Day 1. Know the school’s history, its vision and values, its strong points, its USP, and look at who you will be working with in your team and board. You don’t really get this time again once yo
Ep: 89 5 Takes on digital learning tools to transform STEM education
Take 1) Digital Tools Boost Learning OutcomesResearch shows that digital learning tools can enhance student achievement. In my own teaching, students use Quizlet to create flashcards and revise topics before assessments. This active repetition helps reinforce knowledge and improve recall. These tools support personalized learning, allowing students to study at their own pace and target their weake
Ep 88: Educator Insights: Personalised Learning & Inclusive Pedagogy with Daniela Selhuber
For this interview, we are joined by Daniela Selhuber: Head of Curriculum Support at Taylor's International School - Kuala Lumpur, to explore Personalised Learning & Inclusive Pedagogy - specifically through an EAL lensKey Themes:Supporting EAL Learners in the ClassroomIdentifying and Supporting SEND in EAL StudentsParental EngagementEdTech & Learning SupportProcurement & Prioritisati
Ep 87: 5 takes on Flexing Professional Development
Laura Mitchelson from Veritas Wild, specialists in strategic HR for schools, presents five forward-thinking takes on professional development that are designed to remain effective both today and in the next five years. Take 1) We demand that people don’t get access to PD unless they ask for it Take 2) We get creative about what PD can beTake 3) We measure the impact of all PDTake 4) We offer multi
Ep 86: ISN Live Bonus Q&A; Navigating the Challenges of Leadership
The leaders from our recent ISN Live event, Matthew Burfield, Lauren Binnington and Lucinda Willis answer a selection of your questions in this bonus Q&A session.QuestionsHow do you tackle performance issues and ensure your communication is both clear and compassionate?Do you have any advice on how to manage relationships when you feel unable to have open conversations? How can a team collabor
Ep 85: 5 Takes on Sustainability for Primary School Children
In the latest episode of 5 Takes, award-winning educator and author Edd Moore explores practical and fun ways to incorporate sustainability into the primary school curriculum.5 TakesTake 1) Eco Warriors Take 2) Culture is King/QueenTake 3) Environmental Projects Take 4) Involving Community Take 5) Embed Sustainability across the curriculum LinksFind more about Edd's work and book release here:
Ep 84: What are International Schools doing? The SDGs and Education's Role in a Sustainable Future.
Sponsored by the International Curriculum Association, senior leaders and subject experts explore ways in which international schools can help achieve the UN SDGs 2030.Key themes:Examples of successfully integrated sustainability projects and initiatives.The role of student voice and agency in shaping a school's sustainability agenda.The role of global citizenship and collaboration with local comm
Ep 83: ISNLive: The Anxious Generation; How can Educators Students and Parents?
In this ISN Live event, sponsored by The National College, safeguarding, mental health and well-being experts analyse the findings of Jonathan Haidt's ground-breaking book. SpeakersSian Jorgensen: Safeguarding Consultant and Trainer, International Schools Specialist, ©SAFE Interviewing Trainer Hayley Wilson: Deputy Head of Secondary School (Pastoral Community and Wellbeing) at Kellet School, The B
Ep 82: Stepping into Leadership: The Role of Coaching and developing leadership skills for Emerging International Education Leaders
In this discussion, sponsored by our partner Chameleon PDE, we explore how emerging leaders develop essential leadership skills, tackle systemic challenges, and leverage professional relationships. Key themes:The key skills and competencies that are most critical for advancement into leadership roles in international education.The unique challenges faced by early-career leaders in the internationa
Ep 81: 5 Takes... AI for Inclusion with John Dolman
In this new series, we will hear from a series of experienced teachers and leaders to give us 5 essential takeaways on key topics in international education. In this first episode, John Dolman, The AI English Teacher shares his 5 takes on AI for Inclusivity and how to best utilise AI to support all learners. 5 Takes...Differentiating Reading Material- the first easy win Any LLM like ChatGPT - act
Ep 80: From Roots to Passions with Hannah Wilson
In this discussion, Hannah Wilson, Leadership Development Consultant and Founder and Director of Diverse Educators, shares how her passion for DEIJ has influenced every step of her career. Key Themes:Experiences of school, developing a passion for equity and inclusion from an early age.The decision to teach and Hannah's first experiences of teaching in very different schools.Journey into leadershi
Ep 79: From Roots to Passions with Dr. Benjamin Freud
In this interview, Dr. Benjamin Freud—Head of Upper School at Green School Bali and founder of Coconut Thinking—shares the journey and insights that shaped his role as an influential environmental educator. Key themes:Personal experiences of school, the importance of understanding the why when learning and the benefits of a University environment.A varied career and the motivation to teach.Diverse
Ep 78: From Local to Global with Sabina Mammadova
In this interview, we sit down with Sabina Mammadova to discuss her journey from Educator in her native Azerbaijan to Science Teacher at One World International School Singapore.Key themes:Inspirations and aspirations. Training to be a teacher in Azerbaijan and first teaching experiences. Motivations to teach internationally, the financial inequity and opportunities available internationally.The c
Ep 77: From Roots to Passions with Matthew Burfield
In this interview, we sit down with Matthew Burfield, Senior Vice President at GEMS Education, to explore the pivotal experiences and insights that have shaped his career and leadership journey.Key Themes:Lasting impressesions from school, the impact of adverse childhood experiences.Fast progression into leadership, the successes and challenges.Recognising signs of burn-out, taking time and first
Ep 76: Inclusive phonics instruction: Effective practices for SEND learners sponsored by DK Learning.
In this discussion, our experts explore various strategies to integrate phonics instruction for SEND learners and the benefits of this.Key Themes: Difficulties that many SEND learners can face when developing levels of literacy. Specific strategies and adaptations that have been successful in teaching phonics/literacy to SEND students.How DK's Catch-up readers can support educators and learners to
Ep 75: From Roots to Passions with Dr. Nigel Winnard
In this interview, Dr. Winnard shares experiences, challenges, and insights from his life, teaching in the UK and his time serving as Head of School in both Sudan and Brazil.In this new series of interviews, we want to learn more about exceptional practitioners who have developed their passion for education from their formative experiences. Join us for a peek behind the curtain of some outstanding
Ep 74: Unlocking Potential Fostering Autonomy and Agency for Educators and Students
This discussion, sponsored by our partner, the International Curriculum Association (ICA) explores the crucial topic of autonomy and agency for schools, their staff and students.A focus on agency enables individuals to take ownership of their learning journey and professional roles. By fostering autonomy and agency, we not only cultivate a sense of responsibility and self-direction among students
Ep 73: From Roots to Passions with Patrick Renouf
In this interview, we sit down with Mathematics coach Patrick Renouf to discuss accessible Mathematics Education, the motivations to teach and enacting greater change through international education.Key themes:Growing up in a small place, individual experiences school and discovering personal identity.Inspirations to teach, the importance of acts of service.Motivations to teach internationally and
Ep 72: Integrating AI and educational technology in international schools
In this discussion, we consider the practical implementation and benefits of integrating AI and robotics in schools to enhance learning experiences.Key themes:Ways in which AI can enhance the school curriculum, tools used by our experts and how to use them.Understanding emerging trends and developments in AI/Ed-tech that will likely have a significant impact on international education in the next
Ep 71: From Roots to Passions with Juan Jacobs Sheblak
In this interview, Educational Leader Juan Jacobs Sheblak reflects on his experiences growing up in South Africa during apartheid and how this inspired his activism and advocacy for DEIJ in schools. Key themes:Early childhood experiences of racism and discrimination, activism and resistance born from moral absolutism.A journey into education and making a wider impact.The importance of authentic re
Ep 70: How do you develop student leadership skills, and why is this important?
In this conversation we speak to Matthew Barnsley, founder of outdoor education company, Polaris Outdoor. They offer schools and students incredible opportunities to build their leadership, personal, and teamwork skills in dynamic experiential learning environments around the world. We’ll also learn about their young leader's program which is the culmination of 15 years' experience running studen
Ep 69: Future leadership skills and competencies for a rapidly changing landscape
In collaboration with our partner, Making Stuff Better, we discuss what skills and competencies future leaders will need to succeed in the rapidly developing landscape of global education. Key themes:The challenges facing international school leaders over the next 10-20 years.The critical skills and competencies future leaders will need to thrive in international schools.A reflection on how our se
Ep 68: Leveraging technology to streamline admin functions and human processing time in international schools
This discussion, sponsored by Zegal, focuses on the critical topic of compliance and risk management within an international school setting, spotlighting the different technological tools that active practitioners at schools based in Singapore have used in their own settings to streamline processes. Key themes:Practical ways to leverage technology in international schools to save human processin
Ep 67: Fostering Growth: Harnessing Social Emotional Learning for Student Success
Our partner, the International Curriculum Association, sponsors this conversation on the role of Social Emotional Learning in international schools to develop students understanding of themselves and others. Key themesDefining Social Emotional Learning, why it's important for schools to establish clear SEL in their curriculum offering.Effective strategies for integrating social-emotional learning
Ep 65: ISN Live; How can great teachers become great leaders?
In this event, four exceptional and innovative international leaders share their insights on what is needed to take the first steps into leadership. They highlight skills, barriers, strategies and challenges in middle and senior leadership. A must-watch for all aspiring leaders.GuestsGlen Radojkovich: Director of Education, Dubai - Taaleem Nicki Williams: Director of Charter Schools at Taleem Phil
Ep 66: Global Classrooms; Navigating Cultural Dissonance in International Schools
In this discussion, sponsored by our founding partner, Chameleon PDE, our expert practitioners reflect on the pressing topic of cultural dissonance within international schools. Key themesRecognising cultural dissonance among students in international schools and the strategies educators use to foster greater empathy among students from diverse cultural backgrounds.How educators can collaborate wi
Ep 64. Creating space to have sensitive and authentic conversations with students
In this discussion, sponsored by our partners at The Day, we explore how to create an environment where difficult and sensitive topics can be discussed, and the importance of this for young people. Key themesThe importance of creating space to address sensitive topics, and misconceptions.How to approach conversations about sensitive topics with young people from diverse cultural backgrounds.Effect
Ep 63: Can anyone be good at Maths?
In this discussion, we explore Maths anxiety and trauma and the innovative new approaches to Mathematics pedagogy that address these issues, framing Mathematics as a subject for everybody.Key themes:Traditional pedagogical approaches to Mathematics and resulting Maths anxiety and trauma.The importance of project-based learning and understanding the 'why?' in Mathematics.The role of assessment in M
Ep 62: How to implement experiential learning & instil consequence awareness in student learning.
In this discussion, sponsored by our partner Polaris Outdoor, we speak with educators about the importance of experiential learning and the benefits of this for young people. Key themes:What is experiential learning and how do different curriculums foster it.The benefits of experiential learning for critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.Strategies to successfully embed con
Ep 61: Safeguarding; recognising child-on-child abuse and how to effectively tackle this in International Schools.
In this discussion, sponsored by our partners at The National College, we speak with three expert safeguarding practitioners on how to effectively support young people experiencing and/or carrying out child-on-child abuse.The National College is the leading professional development platform for International Schools around the world, helping international schools drive up standards through access
Ep 60: Interview with Dr Steffen Sommer, Director General of Misk Schools, Riyadh.
In this discussion we explore the innovative work of Misk Schools to develop leadership and high performance learning for their students and their commitment to make this innovative approach available for other local Saudi schools.Key Themes:The 2030 vision for Misk Schools is to be a top school for leadership.The development of High Performance Learning and how this has been rolled out in Misk Sc
Ep 59: Strategies for successful school development
In this discussion, we speak with four senior leaders about their experiences and the strategies they have found most useful for school development.Key themes:Ultilising professional development to create a cohesive school vision and to invest in staff.Student centred-learning to develop a supportive and inclusive school community. The role of love in education.Reflective curriculum development to
Ep 58: The advantages and practical application of AI in education
In this discussion, we delve into the practical application of AI for educators and school leaders and consider the challenges we are still to face.Key themes:Practical application, choosing the tools and taking time to familiarise yourself with different AI applicationsThe role of AI to support professional developmentHow to create guidelines and regulations to support safe school use of AILookin
Ep 57: Women in Leadership: Rachel Edwards, Head of Secondary at Dover Court International School
In this interview, Rachel Edwards, Head of Secondary at Dover Court International School, reflects on her leadership experience, the successes, challenges, and the advice she would give all aspiring leaders.Key themes:The search for new experiences and the willingness to take on new challenges.The shared successes of educational leadership'You can't have everything all of the time', navigating the
Ep 56: Women in Leadership: Caroline King Head of Primary at the International School Seychelles
In our next interview, we speak to Caroline King, Head of Primary at the International School Seychelles. Caroline is an incredibly discerning leader who is open and reflective about her successes and challenges.Key themes:A trajectory of success, pressures and reflectionsThe role coaching has played to enable successThe intersectional experience of black, female leadership.The importance of recog
Ep 55: Women in Leadership: Ruth Whymark, Senior Vice-Principal and Head of Primary at Doha College
In this next interview, we speak to Ruth Whymark, Senior Vice-Principal and Head of Primary at Doha College, Ruth provides thoughtful reflections on the experiences of women in school leadership, and highlights the importance of leading with authenticity.Key themes:The motivations to teach and take on leadership positions internationallyThe juggle of a young family whilst in a senior leadership po
Ep 54: Women in Leadership: Nicki Williams, Director of Charter Schools Taleem
In this first interview, we speak to Nicki Williams, Director of Charter Schools at Taaleem, Nicki is an open and inspiring guest, talking about her journey through leadership, the successes and challenges she has faced throughout. Key themes:The journey from classroom teacher to Director of Charter Schools Taaleem.Memorable successes.Challenges, from imposter syndrome to work-life balance.Percept
Ep 53: Shining a light on The British International School Ukraine
In this interview, Anna Azarova, Communications Lead for BISU details the extraordinary efforts the school have made to provide engaging and interactive learning experiences. Key themesRemaining present in people's consciousness, how BISU works to shine the light on their educators and students.The development of Global student projects, connecting students from around the world with BISU students
52: An Interview on Co-Headship; How The Garzón School Reap the Rewards of Collaboration.
In this interview, co-Heads, Sam Irving and Leona Dauphin talk openly about their experience of collaborative leadership, their successes and what they have learned. Key themesEstablishing a shared vision with common goals as joint school leadersThe devision of responsibitlies and the crucial role of trust.The successes of co-headship and the exciting future of The Garzón School
Ep 51: The biggest brand experience international schools are missing
In collaboration with our partners at Apptegy, we were joined by directors of marketing from two large international schools to explore the importance of brand identity for international schools. Watch the full conversation below!Key discussion themes:The importance of brand for the whole school community and the authenticity of students as brand ambassadors.The audience and stakeholders that a br
Ep 50: In the Face of Conflict; The Collective Resolve of British International School Ukraine
In this inspiring interview, Anton Zastavnyi, CEO of The British International School Ukraine, highlights the incredible dedication of the teaching staff who continue to provide students with their education, support and sanctuary.Key themes:The first response of the school when war was declared, the decisions to remain open and how has the ongoing situation in Ukraine has affected the school's da
Ep 49: In conversation with Emily Meadows, LGBTQ+ consultant for International Schools
Claire King, ISN Community Manager sits down with Dr Emily Meadows to discuss how clear school policy on LGBTQ+ rights provides safety and security for staff and students.Key discussion themes:The significance of supportive adults.The power of policy when navigating potential barriers or misconceptions.The importance of reflection and returning to policy to ensure it is responsive to evolving need
Ep 48: In this conversation with Dr. Helen Kelly; The effects of burnout on individuals and the significance of prevention.
Key discussion themes:Recognising the symptoms of burnoutThe recovery and options for educators when they have reached the point of burnoutWhy prevention is crucialThe strategies that schools can implement to prevent burnout and support their educators
Ep 47: A conversation with Author, Head of School and qualified Psychotherapist Naila Khan
A new educational handbook, 'I May Have', from Naila Khan provides support for all educators supporting students with additional learning needs.Listen to our discussion with Naila Khan to learn more about her educational handbook 'I May Have' and how to best utilise this resource in your setting.ISN Members will receive a 10% discount when purchasing this booklet with the discount code: ISNDiscoun
Ep 46: A short series: Stories of International Teaching and Leadership with Barry Cooper
The final guest in our mini series is Barry Cooper, Principal with the Global College, Madrid, and an experienced lead in the development and opening of new schools.In this new mini-series we talk to a series of guests about what motivated them to relocate and teach internationally. ISN Community Manager, Claire King, sits down with several international educators to examine how careers, interests
Ep 45: A short series: Stories of International Teaching and Leadership with Ken Page
Next in our series, we speak to Ken Page, an experienced Head of Primary Education across many regions and Director and Lead Improvement Partner with the Council Of British International Schools (COBIS).In this new mini-series we talk to a series of guests about what motivated them to relocate and teach internationally. ISN Community Manager, Claire King, sits down with several international educa
Ep 44: A short series: Stories of International Teaching and Leadership with Kirsty Dewhirst
Continuing our series, we speak with Kirsty Dewhirst, previously Assistant Principal of Avondale Grammar School Singapore and Head of Grade at St. Joseph's Institution International, Singapore. In this new mini-series we talk to a series of guests about what motivated them to relocate and teach internationally. ISN Community Manager, Claire King, sits down with several international educators to e
Ep 43: A short series: Stories of International Teaching and Leadership with David Berridge
In our next interview, Claire talks with David Berridge, an experienced IB Co-ordinator and longstanding Head of The British School of Costa Rica.In this new mini-series we talk to a series of guests about what motivated them to relocate and teach internationally. ISN Community Manager, Claire King, sits down with several international educators to examine how careers, interests and values have be
Ep 42: A short series: Stories of International Teaching and Leadership with Nick Botting
Kickstarting our new mini-series of interviews is Nick Botting, an experienced educator, Head and currently the Chief Instructional Officer for BASIS International Schools China.In this new mini-series we talk to a series of guests about what motivated them to relocate and teach internationally. ISN Community Manager, Claire King, sits down with several international educators to examine how caree
Ep 41: Practical strategies to equip students with the skills to navigate the complex digital media landscape
In one of our most recent roundtables - in collaboration with our partners at Britannica Education - we discuss the importance of prioritising effective education initiatives in developing learners' critical literacies in appraising web-based information and digital media, and the challenges and opportunities around this highly relevant topic area for educators working in secondary schools today.K
Ep 40: SEND provision and the importance of inclusive practice
In this discussion, Claire, our ISN Community Manager, talks with experienced senior voices about the delivery of SEND in different international settings.Key discussion themes:What does inclusion look like in different international settings.What practical strategies can be used in a busy, mixed ability classroom.The importance of all educators using a consistent approach/strategies to support SE
Ep 39: Practical Strategies for embedding future-proof skills
In this discussion, senior school leaders and representatives of founding partner Immerse, discuss how educators can embrace change and embed the future-proof skills needed to support new generations of students.Key discussion themes:1. The relationship between tech and traditional learning, our experts talk about the importance of learning and understanding a thought-process, rather than a focus
Ep 38: Project management in an international school
How do you build an effective project management process? Does your school have a dedicated project manager or project management team? We hear from three experts about their experiences of project management within an international school settingMax (Head of ISN) speaks to three project managers from different international schools based in Indonesia, Italy and Japan, to discuss the benefits of h
Ep 37: In conversation with Matthew Barnsley, Founder, Director and Expert Senior Instructor of Polaris Outdoor
In this episode, Max, Head of ISN, sits down to talk with Matthew Barnsley, Founder and Director of Polaris Outdoor. The conversation covers inspirations, the benefits of expeditions for the growth and resilience of young people, as well as the challenges and most memorable moments Matthew has experienced along the way.We hope you enjoy.
Ep 36: How to effectively integrate climate change & sustainability education in an international school setting
Why is it important to make students aware of and teach climate and sustainability education in a school setting? In this discussion, Max (Head of Community @ ISN) speaks to three senior international education experts from different regions and schools around the world to discuss why all teachers from all subjects should be working to include climate and sustainability education into their subjec
Ep35: How technology is changing the teaching of traditional subjects
How has technology changed the teaching of traditional subjects?Our Head of Community, Max Humpston, and guest host Sean Stevens (CEO of ISN Founding Partner Immerse Education) recently sat down with two educators from different regions around the world to share practical strategies focused on a number of important themes, including how technology impacted the teaching of traditional subjects and
Ep34: Part 2 - What I learned from taking students to The Arctic, with Matthew Barnsley
In this interview, Our Head of Community, Max Humpston is joined by Matthew Barnsley, Director and Founder of Polaris Outdoor, and Josh Smith, Bushcraft instructor and M.L., to discuss what they learned during their recent trip with Polaris Outdoor to The Arctic. Key discussion themes:Overview of their experiences on the tripPersonal development of students and staff during the tripHow to overcom
Ep33: Practical strategies for attracting and retaining great teachers
What can you do to attract and retain great teachers?Our Head of Community, Max Humpston, and Laura Liguori (Advisor to Educators Abroad and founding member of ISN) recently sat down with three heads of school to share practical strategies focused on a number of important themes, including how they attract and retain the best teachers. Key discussion themes:Incentives great teachers are looking fo
Ep32: Inspiring a love of science in students
How can you inspire a love of science in your students? How can we encourage all students to pursue science beyond the classroom? (Sponsored by DK Learning)Max (Head of Community at ISN) speaks to three outdoor education experts from different international schools and regions around the world to discuss the importance of fostering a love of science in primary school students and the impact can th
Ep31: How to inspire creativity within your students
How can you inspire a creative spark in your students? And, how does a creative spark help them thrive in their other subjects?Our Head of Community, Max Humpston, sits down with Trevor Wilson, Director of Authors Abroad, and three experts from different international schools and regions around the world to discuss how they use their own creative spark to inspire their students, how this may diffe
Ep30: How to create an impactful outdoor learning & co-curricular activities programme
How can you create impactful outdoor learning opportunities? What can be done to make outdoor learning easier, safer, and more accessible? (Sponsored by Polaris Outdoor) Max (Head of Community at ISN) speaks to four outdoor education experts from different international schools and regions around the world to discuss how you can take learning outdoors and how to use CPD to give teachers access to
EP29: Part 1 - Interview with outdoor educator and survival expert, Matthew Barnsley
In this interview, Matthew Barnsley, Director and Founder of Polaris Outdoor, shares his journey from geology student, to teacher, to outdoor learning expertMat is an experienced exploration geologist, specialising in remote, desert, high altitude mountain, jungle and arctic environments and has worked with the Natural History Museum Lima, the Bear Grylls production team. Mat is also an experience
