Local Identities, International Classrooms| A Conversation with Simon Probert

This episode is supported by the University of Warwick's Centre for Teacher Education. Click here to learn more.

Simon Probert and I explore the evolution of British international schools in Asia, with a focus on the growth of British international education in Asia. The appeal of British international schools and the interaction between these schools and local education systems are discussed, as well as the importance of local identity are explored. The conversation also delves into the challenges of localising international schools and the post-colonial lens in British international schools.

Simon talks about the idea of creating a third space in international schools and the future of international education and importance of reflection, collaboration, and autonomy in evolving international schools is emphasised, along with the need to empower students and define the future of internationalism.

Takeaways

• British international education has experienced significant growth in Asia, particularly in China, with the British curriculum and qualifications being highly sought after.
• International schools in China interact with the local education system in various ways, including through bilingual schools that explicitly teach the Chinese National Curriculum and international schools that have more freedom over the curriculum.
• Creating a bicultural curriculum that incorporates local values and identity alongside global citizenship is important in international schools.
• International schools need to reflect on their context, build collaborative relationships with parents and the local community, and ensure that staff understand the cultural context in which they are working.
• The future of international education lies in creating unique cultural spaces that bridge different nations and cultures, empowering students to be confident, articulate individuals with a sense of global citizenship.

Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com and email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.

About the host

Shane Leaning is a passionate organisational development coach with over 15 years of international teaching and leadership experience. His approach to coaching and professional development is all about approachability and attentiveness to the unique strengths and contexts of schools and educators. Shane believes that empowerment fosters growth and success for both educators and students alike.

Join Shane's Intensive Leadership Programme at educationleaders.co/intensive

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports school leaders globally. Passionate about empowment, he is the author of the best-selling 'Change Starts Here.' Shane is a leading educational voice in the UK, Asia and around the world.

You can find Shane on LinkedIn and Bluesky. or shaneleaning.com

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