The International Schools Network

40 Episodes
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By: ISN

The International Schools Network (ISN) is a space where educators working at international schools can connect, share ideas and inspiration and join discussions on key topics in education today. We'll be sharing these conversations on a weekly basis so stay tuned for more discussions to come! Join our fast-growing community today: https://isn.education/register LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-schools-network/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theinternationalschoolsnet22 Flipboard: https://flipboard.com/@isnetwork

Ep 88: Educator Insights: Personalised Learning & Inclusive Pedagogy with Daniela Selhuber
Last Tuesday at 8:00 AM

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 lens

Key Themes:

Supporting EAL Learners in the ClassroomIdentifying and Supporting SEND in EAL StudentsParental EngagementEdTech & Learning SupportProcurement & Prioritisation


Ep 87: 5 takes on Flexing Professional Development
07/02/2025

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 be

Take 3) We measure the impact of all PD

Take 4) We offer multiple ways of accessing PD

Take 5) We employ Futures Literacy as a way of stretching all functions to where they will ne...


Ep 86: ISN Live Bonus Q&A; Navigating the Challenges of Leadership
06/25/2025

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.

Questions

How 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 collaborate with a leader who is still gaining experience?How do you recognise and support educators who are experiencing burnout or disengagement?How do you set boundaries between your teaching staff...


Ep 85: 5 Takes on Sustainability for Primary School Children
06/17/2025

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 Takes

Take 1) Eco Warriors

Take 2) Culture is King/Queen

Take 3) Environmental Projects

Take 4) Involving Community

Take 5) Embed Sustainability across the curriculum

Links

Find more about Edd's work and book release here: https://ecoedd.com/

Connect with Edd here: linkedin.com/in/edd-moore-a0369b86


Ep 84: What are International Schools doing? The SDGs and Education's Role in a Sustainable Future.
05/14/2025

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 community to encourage action on the SDGs.Looking ahead, the role international schools have in shaping the global narrative.How ICA’s materials support the effective teaching and learning of SDG’s 2030.


Ep 83: ISNLive: The Anxious Generation; How can Educators Students and Parents?
04/11/2025

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.

Speakers

Sian 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: Senior Education Consultant, Specialising in Mental Health Strategy and Training. Jamie Ganley: Head of Sales at The National College

Agenda:

Session 1: Sian Jorgensen; The Research and Impact of Social Media and Mobile P...


Ep 82: Stepping into Leadership: The Role of Coaching and developing leadership skills for Emerging International Education Leaders
03/19/2025

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 international education sector, how developing leadership skills and coaching helps address these challenges.External influences that can support personal development as an early-career leader.The importance of evaluating the demands and requirements of a leadership position, recognising when to take on a position...


Ep 81: 5 Takes... AI for Inclusion with John Dolman
02/25/2025

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 - acting in the role as an expert teacher skilled in differentiation. Great platforms like Diffit - are specifically built for differentiation. Differentiation is a proven pedagogical technique.Text to Image...


Ep 80: From Roots to Passions with Hannah Wilson
01/22/2025

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 leadership, the challenges and successes Hannah experienced as a Vice Principal and a Headteacher/ Executive Headteacher.The power of disrupting the norm and creative recruitment practices.Deciding to step back from a school environment.How Hannah's...


Ep 79: From Roots to Passions with Dr. Benjamin Freud
11/12/2024

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 teaching experiences, the key successes and challenges.Leaving a traditional international school settings for the Green School, Bali, the curriculum and schemes of learning.Advice for chools looking to make bigger changes in term...


Ep 78: From Local to Global with Sabina Mammadova
11/07/2024

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 challenges and successes of Sabina's transition to international teaching.Advice for local educators seeking international positions.


Ep 77: From Roots to Passions with Matthew Burfield
10/30/2024

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 steps into International Education.The experience of establishing GEMS Founders School Dubai.Advice for aspiring school leaders.


Ep 76: Inclusive phonics instruction: Effective practices for SEND learners sponsored by DK Learning.
10/28/2024

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 achieve.The role parents and caregivers play in supporting phonics/literacy development for SEND learners.Examples of how you can differentiate phonics instruction within a mixed-ability classroom that includes SEND and EAL learners.Recommendations for greater learning...


Ep 75: From Roots to Passions with Dr. Nigel Winnard
09/25/2024

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 international educators and how they have achieved their success. Our next guest is Dr Nigel Winnard. Dr. Winnard has had an exceptional career with 19 years of experience as a head of...


Ep 74: Unlocking Potential Fostering Autonomy and Agency for Educators and Students
09/19/2024

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 but also empower teachers to innovate and tailor their instructional approaches to meet diverse student needs. However, this approach doesn’t come without its challenges. In this discussion, our experts explore workable strategies and best practices that really develop a...


Ep 73: From Roots to Passions with Patrick Renouf
09/04/2024

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 the idea of 'fixing the fence'.Culumative learnings and inspirational educators.Where to learn more!

If you would like to learn more about Patrick and how he can support your school reach out on LinkedIn or via email at...


Ep 72: Integrating AI and educational technology in international schools
08/28/2024

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 five years.The impact of AI on assessments and feedback.The benefits and engagement from tools such as robotics.Recommendations for CPD for teachers to upskill their teaching through the use of AI.<...


Ep 71: From Roots to Passions with Juan Jacobs Sheblak
08/16/2024

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 representation in school leadership, not tokenism or gaining a leadership position through assimilation.A reflection on the role of morality and ethics in leadership.


Ep 70: How do you develop student leadership skills, and why is this important?
08/07/2024

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 student trips. You can download a free copy of this guide below - this will give you the initial framework to think about how you might develop a young leaders program in your own school setting.

We hope you enjoy th...


Ep 69: Future leadership skills and competencies for a rapidly changing landscape
08/01/2024

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 senior leaders have had to adapt their leadership over their careers, including unforeseen changes.An exploration of connection economy, and the potential implications of this.The emergence of coaching in the international education sector and to...


Ep 68: Leveraging technology to streamline admin functions and human processing time in international schools
07/17/2024

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 processing time and improve administrative efficiency.Challenges and lessons learned to ensure schools keep up to date with technological advancements more broadly.How to enhance student and staff experiences through tools and technologies implemented in school settings.Future challenges in risk...


Ep 67: Fostering Growth: Harnessing Social Emotional Learning for Student Success
07/10/2024

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 themes

Defining Social Emotional Learning, why it's important for schools to establish clear SEL in their curriculum offering.Effective strategies for integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) into various subject areas within the curriculum.Assessing and monitoring students' social-emotional development effectively.Ways in which educators can foster a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that promotes students' social-emotional growth.The role parents and caregivers play in supporting SEL initiatives, and how...


Ep 65: ISN Live; How can great teachers become great leaders?
07/02/2024

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.

Guests

Glen Radojkovich: Director of Education, Dubai - Taaleem

Nicki Williams: Director of Charter Schools at Taleem

Philip Stainton: Deputy Head Teacher. COBIS Peer Accreditor. Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching.

Matt Hall: Director and Lead Coach at Making Stuff Better

Key themes

Recoginising...


Ep 66: Global Classrooms; Navigating Cultural Dissonance in International Schools
06/27/2024

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 themes

Recognising 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 with families and communities to support students to navigate their place in an international context.How to promote culturally responsive teaching practices that acknowledge and celebrate the diverse cultural perspectives and experiences of students.How to best support young people to successfully transition...


Ep 64. Creating space to have sensitive and authentic conversations with students
06/07/2024

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 themes

The importance of creating space to address sensitive topics, and misconceptions.How to approach conversations about sensitive topics with young people from diverse cultural backgrounds.Effective strategies and techniques to create a safe and supportive environment for young people to express their thoughts, and feelings, on sensitive subjects.How to garner parental support, including in more traditional cultural settings.Examples of...


Ep 63: Can anyone be good at Maths?
05/31/2024

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 Mathematics and the evolution of traditional assessments.

Guests:

Whitney Edmundson: Learning and Teaching Lead: Curriculum Maths and Individuals and Societies Raha KCC at Raha International School

Patrick Renoulf: Concept-Based Inquiry Educator, Concept-Based Curriculum...


Ep 62: How to implement experiential learning & instil consequence awareness in student learning.
05/29/2024

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 consequence awareness in the classroom.Differentiating experiential learning to meet the needs of diverse learners.

Guests:

1. Ben Goutennoire: Head of Student Wellbeing at the international school of London

2. Ben Dolbear: Deputy Head at Guildhouse School <...


Ep 61: Safeguarding; recognising child-on-child abuse and how to effectively tackle this in International Schools.
05/22/2024

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 to high-quality courses and expert-led webinars for all roles. Today they are sponsoring our discussion about an issue in which they can provide real insight and support, ‘child-on-child abuse’.

Child-on-child abuse, the ‘physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse, and coercive contro...


Ep 60: Interview with Dr Steffen Sommer, Director General of Misk Schools, Riyadh.
05/12/2024

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 SchoolsHow Misk Schools recognises it's position of privilege and from this, is committed to its vision as a Beacon school.Preparing students for a rapidly developing world.Strategies to engage parents...


Ep 59: Strategies for successful school development
05/08/2024

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 best serve all students.Strategic planning and leading authentically when starting a new headship in a new school.Key takeaways.

Guests:

Christine Woods: Principal at The City School International, SharjahMelanie Hitchcocks: Principal, British International School...


Ep 58: The advantages and practical application of AI in education
03/21/2024

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 AILooking ahead, the advancements in AI that may have the most significant impact on education in the coming years

Guests include:

Leon Furze: Consultant | Author | PhD Candidate | Director @ Young Change Agents | Director @ Reframing...


Ep 57: Women in Leadership: Rachel Edwards, Head of Secondary at Dover Court International School
03/11/2024

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 choice to have a family and how this impacts women in leadership positions.The gained perspective of being a woman in international education and how this develops a greater sense of empathy.The importance of putting...


Ep 56: Women in Leadership: Caroline King Head of Primary at the International School Seychelles
03/11/2024

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 recognising and alligning your ethics and values for authentic leadership


Ep 55: Women in Leadership: Ruth Whymark, Senior Vice-Principal and Head of Primary at Doha College
03/11/2024

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 positionAddressing and challenging stereotypes of women as primary care-giversAdvice on supporting and raising other women up


Ep 54: Women in Leadership: Nicki Williams, Director of Charter Schools Taleem
03/06/2024

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.Perceptions of female leaders and the unique offering female leaders contribute.Advice for aspiring female leaders.


Ep 53: Shining a light on The British International School Ukraine
02/26/2024

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 themes

Remaining 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.Recruitment challenges, BISU are doing incredible work to maintain their provision, however, they need teachers. Could you, or someone you know teach in Ukraine? Contact us or Anna on LinkedIn for an opportunity to do something incredibly rewarding...


52: An Interview on Co-Headship; How The GarzĂłn School Reap the Rewards of Collaboration.
01/31/2024

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 themes

Establishing 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 GarzĂłn School


Ep 51: The biggest brand experience international schools are missing
01/24/2024

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 brand must influence for a school to prosper, from parents to teachers.Practical strategies that schools can use to determine and influence how their brand is perceived.Common branding mistakes, from inconsistent messaging to maintaining a...


Ep 50: In the Face of Conflict; The Collective Resolve of British International School Ukraine
01/19/2024

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 daily operations.The ways the school community has rallied together to support students and families at this time.How the international community can support educational insitiotions in Ukraine, including the British International School Ukraine (BISU...


Ep 49: In conversation with Emily Meadows, LGBTQ+ consultant for International Schools
01/18/2024

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 needs