The following article comes from Sophie Schoukroun, Deputy Head of Coram House, Ackworth School.
Why is global education important to you and your school?
For me, Global education is essential because it prepares pupils for an interconnected world. It helps them develop cultural awareness, critical thinking and the ability to collaborate with diverse perspectives.
Global education aligns deeply with our school’s Quaker values particularly in developing peace, integrity, equality and community. We recognise the importance of the sustainable development goals and the United Nations convention on the right of a child. We would like to equip our pupils with the transferable skills, knowledge and understanding required to be successful and happy and able to make a difference. We want our pupils to become thoughtful, compassionate global citizens who use their voices to create positive change.
How has the Global School Alliance benefited you as a teacher and the opportunities for your school?
The Global School Alliance has provided invaluable opportunities for our teachers and pupils. As a teacher, it has expanded my professional development through networking and exposure to best practices from around the world. It has also provided me with opportunities to connect with international educators. For our school, it has opened doors to international partnerships, pupil exchanges (School Council and Global Committee) and cross-cultural learning experiences which enrich our curriculum and broaden our pupils perspectives.
What benefits do you think this award will have on the whole school community?
This award reinforces our school’s dedication to develop a global conscious community. It will inspire pupils and colleagues to engage more deeply in global citizenship and service, encouraging them to think beyond themselves and work towards a fairer and more peaceful world. It also affirms our commitment to equality and respect, helping us strengthen partnerships that reflect our Quaker ethos. I am hoping it will also strengthen the value of international collaboration and motivate everyone to engage more actively in global learning initiatives.
How will you use this award to motivate pupils and staff?
We would celebrate this award as a reflection of our shared values and commitment to making a difference. We would also use this as an opportunity to expand initiatives such as opportunity to expand initiatives such as international dialogues between schools on peace, equity and justice and cross-cultural collaborations that embody Quaker principles in action.
We will continue to develop our existing partnerships programs with schools in France, Pennsylvania and Tasmania. We hope to create further bonds and partnerships with the help and support of Global School Alliance.
What are your plans to develop your international work?
Guided by our Quaker values and ethos and our partnership with Global School Alliance, our next steps include:
- Expanding opportunities for pupil lead initiatives that promote equality and stewardship;
- Deepening our curriculum focus on international issues through the lens of Quaker values;
- Encouraging staff development in global education to ensure these principles are fully embedded in teaching and learning;
- Leaving global education, sustainable development and peace education into our curriculum;
- Developing our partnerships with international schools for exchange programs and collaborative projects;
- Encouraging pupils to participate in international competitions, model UN events and virtual cultural changes;
- Offering more professional development opportunities for teachers to incorporate global education strategies into their teaching.
To learn more about the Global School Awards, visit: www.globalschoolalliance.com/global-school-awards.
