05.12.24
On Friday 29th November, the Global School Alliance warmly welcomed hundreds of passionate educators to a remarkable event held at the prestigious Mary Ward House in London. The atmosphere was buzzing as educators from around the globe gathered to mark five incredible years of connecting and collaborating on a global scale.
At our anniversary event, networking and forming new friendships took centre stage, creating a day of opportunities to connect with like-minded pioneers in global education.
Kelly Davis, Assistant Headteacher at Connah’s Quay High School, said: “Attending the Global School Alliance’s 5-Year Celebration was an inspiring and rewarding experience. The event brought together like-minded professionals passionate about empowering the next generation to become ethical, informed global citizens. It provided a fantastic platform to network and establish meaningful connections with colleagues from across the globe. As a result of this incredible gathering, I have secured several partnerships that will enable collaborative opportunities to strengthen our school’s provision. The event itself was beautifully organized, with an exceptional venue, excellent food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.”
The event brought together like-minded professionals passionate about empowering the next generation to become ethical, informed global citizens.
These new relationships formed the foundation for future collaborations, sparking innovative ideas and igniting a sense of togetherness that transcends borders.
The day was inspiring, led by a lineup of speakers who shared their wisdom and insights. From Joan Deslandes OBE, urging us to build schools rooted in international values, to James Forber’s exploration of raising standards and embedding values that develop global citizens, each presentation represented our shared commitment to unleashing student potential.
James Forber, Headteacher at Connah’s Quay High School, said: “Attending the GSA 5th Anniversary celebration was an absolute privilege and a truly inspiring experience. The opportunity to meet inspirational global educators and share ideas reinforced the immense value of our partnership with GSA. It’s remarkable to see how the GSA community feels like one big family, united by a shared commitment to fostering global connections and educational excellence.”
Eddie Aylett and Laura O’Neill highlighted the impact of hosting international students and developing cross-cultural connections, while Thomas Camilleri painted a vision for the future of the Global School Alliance and announced the launch of the brand-new School Partner Finder. Colin Bell shared how COBIS are committed to connecting school communities globally, and Jack Davies inspired action by advocating for embedding SDGs and climate change in schools. Julie Sutcliffe championed our responsibility to develop impactful language programmes in every school, with the soon-to-launch Languages Unleashed – powered by the Global School Alliance.
We were delighted to be joined by Ellie, a pupil at Moulsham High School, to celebrate her outstanding winning entry in this year’s European Day of Languages competition. Ellie performed the song live to the audience in more than 20 languages!
To conclude the inspiring day, Rob Ford shared his reflections and vision that resonated deeply, leaving everyone with a sense of empowerment and a renewed drive to make a global impact in education.
Rob Ford, CEO & Director at Heritage International School, said: “The GSA has continued to provide a fantastic, growing innovative platform for UK schools and schools around the globe, to connect, support, and learn from each other. To work in true international education partnership. It is one of the most exciting developments in global education of this decade and it’s a privilege to share the experience of Heritage International School and Moldova. A huge thanks to founder Thomas Camilleri for his vision and for the whole GSA team for the dedication and tireless support of schools around the world.”
We thank all of the educators and schools who joined us and for the work you are doing to inspire us every day, along with our Headline Sponsor Oxford International for all of your support.
Sign up today to join the Alliance for free and be part of the next event!
Laura Neill, Kirkhill Primary School, said: “The conference was invaluable in inspiring and encouraging an education which is enriched by an international dimension. A wonderful opportunity to learn from expert speakers and to network with global educators. Thank you!”
Michelle Shread, Sanders Draper, said: “The Global School Alliance event was absolutely inspiring. It reminded me of why I went into teaching and I want to work with Global School Alliance to open up opportunities for the young people at my school!”
Liz Threadgold, Connah’s Quay High School, said: “The Global School Alliance event was a great opportunity to share international experiences and best practice. Meeting fellow educators face to face to discuss global dimensions is an opportunity not to be missed.”
Francisco Ferron Sanchez, St Edmund’s RC, said: “Congratulations to the GSA on this milestone – it was a privilege to celebrate with you, and I look forward to continuing our shared mission to inspire future generations. A very engaging afternoon full of opportunities for networking and make new contacts even possible friendships.”
