In recent weeks, we’ve explored how an International Baccalaureate (IB) education impacts students and their families. Today, the focus is on an aspect you might not see directly but that profoundly benefits our teachers and, ultimately, students: professional development. This past weekend, I participated in a three-day IB workshop. While I’ve attended many in the past and even had the chance to lead one at an international conference, I’m always impressed by the depth of the content, the emphasis on engaging methods, and the collaborative experience with fellow educators. IB professional development stands out as some of the best I’ve encountered in my 24 years in teaching.
Being part of the IB program connects us with nearly 6,000 schools in over 160 countries, supported by a global network of educators, researchers, and technology experts. This extensive team is dedicated to examining and refining curricula across IB programs. Their research helps us improve teaching effectiveness and address educational challenges, enabling us to adapt and grow without being swayed by fleeting trends. When we attend an IB workshop, we know it’s an investment that leads to meaningful insights and improvements.
IB workshops are designed not only to update us on standards and practices but also to model the same inquiry-based learning that IB encourages in students. In my recent workshop, I engaged in active, hands-on explorations that I can incorporate into my classroom. I participated in a spirited debate, created an acrostic poem to highlight key learning principles, collaborated on a model exploring cultural influences on education, and developed new methods I can bring to my students. This dynamic learning goes beyond a traditional workshop format, bringing valuable new approaches that keep our classrooms engaging and impactful.
A key advantage of IB professional development, especially for smaller schools, is the opportunity for collaboration. We may not have a large team of teachers in each subject or grade level, but attending an IB workshop connects us with professionals in similar roles worldwide, allowing us to exchange ideas and solutions. This weekend, I worked closely with a group of educators whose insights and support I can continue to rely on. Through these connections, I gain fresh perspectives and strategies that I look forward to sharing with our team, enriching the learning environment we provide.
Though families might not see these workshops directly, IB professional development has a lasting impact, strengthening the teaching approaches that shape your child’s education.
Like to find out more about All Saints IB Programme? Complete our inquiry form and join us for a tour!
By Libby Vino,
All Saints IB Programme Coordinator for PYP and MYPPlease reach out to Libby with any questions you might have about the IB Programme or a specific topic you’d like to learn more about: lvino@allsaintsdayschool.org.
