Welcome to Issue 46 of the FOBISIAN eMagazine! This edition is packed with exciting updates and events that showcase the wonderful activities happening in our community.
In this issue, we celebrate the success of the recently wrapped-up 31st FOBISIA Leadership Conference 2024 and the Virtual Recruitment Fair, both of which received fantastic feedback. We’re also excited to share highlights from various specialised conferences, including the FOBISIA Music Teachers’, Drama, and PE & Sport Conferences.
Plus, we can't wait to highlight the amazing student events that took place, such as the Intermediate Music Festival, Photography Competition, Track to Success, Online Mathematics Codebreaking Competition, Poetry Competition, 18 & Under Netball, Football Tournament and Trials, and the U11 Primary Games.
Don’t miss our guest contributor section, "A Closer Look: BISSC," where we explore innovative approaches within the BISSC community, plus articles on Fusing STEAM with SDGs and how we can better assess Global Citizenship.
We hope you enjoy this issue and feel inspired by the vibrant spirit of our community!
Bunjopporn (Yoke) Kittrell
now accepts payments via credit card (subject to 3.5% processing fee*)
*email accounts@fobisia.org for a payment link
FOBISIA's TERMLY eMAGAZINE
PUBLISHER FOBISIA
EDITOR
Bunjopporn (Yoke) Kittrell
CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE
Vanita Uppal OBE The British School New Delhi
John Gwyn Jones MBE, Shana Kongmun, Janine Minchin, Dawn Jones, Swati Sinha Bedi FOBISIA HQ
Andrew Chambers British International School, Phuket
Alex Hughes
St. Andrews International School Bangkok
Anna Glossop
Prince of Wales Island International School (Tanjung Bungah Campus)
Caroline Anthonysamy The English School of Mongolia
Darshak Pandya Haileybury Almaty
Gareth Pearson, Roisin Pearson, The British School Manila
Gemma Kate Jessop
HELP International School, Kuala Lumpur
Jonathan Ang Denla British School, Bangkok
Kevin Shaw Dulwich College (Singapore)
Dr. Kristof Starost Charter International School
Matt Hammonds Garden International School
Stephen Tomlinson British School Jakarta
Todd Skevington Marlborough College Malaysia
Warda Muse
Jerudong International School Brunei
Vector images from freepik.com
ABOUT THE FOBISIAN
A termly eMagazine for sharing events and news among the membership. Three issues are published each academic year. If you would like to contribute, email: design@fobisia.org.
FROM OUR CHAIR
Vanita Uppal OBE
FOBISIA Chair
Director The British School New Delhi
Welcome from Chair
Dear FOBISIA Members,
Well begun, it is said, is usually half done! The academic year 2024-25 has certainly done that for us at FOBISIA this year given the dynamic and productive start to our year.
We began the term with not one, but three incredibly successful conferences: the PE & Sport, Music, and Drama conferences. These events showcased the extraordinary talent, collaboration, and commitment within our community, setting the tone for a year of excellence and innovation. Many thanks to the chairs of the PE & Sport, Music, and Drama Executive Committee's, as well as The British School Manila, St. Andrews International School, Bangkok, and Denla British School, Bangkok for hosting these events.
The recently concluded 31st FOBISIA Leadership Conference was a stellar showcase of professional learning, collaboration and motivational guidance coming from our keynote speakers. A key highlight which, in my opinion, displayed our core DNA and ethos – our collective wisdom, our dynamism and collegiality, evident in the coming together of school leaders, Affiliate Members, and global guests (HMC, COBIS, BSME, AoBSO, BESA, and IAPS) to share ideas, celebrate achievements, and look toward the future. It was indeed a privilege to witness the passion and dedication that define our FOBISIA network.
This year, we also welcome new members to the FOBISIA Board; Amos Turner-Wardell (Regents International School Pattaya) and Craig Considine (Tanglin Trust School). We are so looking forward to working with them and I am confident that we will be enriched by their fresh perspectives and energy! At the same time, we extend our heartfelt thanks to outgoing Board members Nick Magnus MBE and Martin Towse. Their contributions to Heads' Support and Membership have been invaluable, and their legacy of service will continue to inspire us.
Looking ahead, we are poised for another remarkable year of student events, professional development, and strengthened connections across our Member schools. I am excited to work alongside all of you to make this year one of growth and shared success.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication to the FOBISIA community. Let’s continue to build on this strong start together!
FROM OUR CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE
FOBISIA CEO
Forward from the CEO
As we close the first term of the 2024-25 academic year, I am delighted to reflect on the incredible achievements of our FOBISIA community. This term has been a testament to the resilience, collaboration, and innovation that define our Member schools, staff and students.
Celebrating Growth and Partnerships
This term, FOBISIA welcomed several new Member Schools, further enriching our network of excellence in British international education. These new partnerships bring exciting opportunities to collaborate and share best practices, reinforcing our collective mission to provide outstanding educational experiences for all students.
Our efforts to strengthen ties with key educational and governmental bodies in the UK also bore fruit, ensuring FOBISIA’s voice remains integral in shaping international education policy. My recent visits to the UK in October (HMC Conference) and December (AoBSO Conference) highlighted our commitment to advocating for the needs of our community, including support for international teachers returning to the UK workforce.
Fostering
Professional Development
FOBISIA’s professional development offerings this term have been diverse and impactful. Our workshops and webinars have covered a range of topics, including Strategies for EAL Success and Leading School Culture with Courage. The four Conferences that supported such a cross section of our community (PE, Music, Drama, and Leadership) have proven to be a resounding success, connecting educators across regions to share insights and strategies for student success.
In addition, FOBISIA has funded several innovative initiatives, such as the exciting development of our "Fellows" programme, support for Heads focusing on their
well-being, and the launch of our first Virtual Recruitment Fair, creating new opportunities for schools to recruit teachers.
Inspiring Students Beyond the Classroom
Our students have also excelled, participating in a host of FOBISIA events, from academic competitions to sports festivals and performing arts showcases. These events not only highlight the incredible talent within our community but also provide invaluable opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and friendship.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the second term, the momentum continues. With more events, professional learning opportunities, and initiatives on the horizon, I am confident that our FOBISIA family will continue to thrive and inspire.
Thank you to our Heads, your staff, students, and parents for your unwavering commitment to excellence and collaboration. Together, we are shaping futures and creating lasting impact.
Finally, I want to take a moment to celebrate our incredible FOBISIA HQ team for delivering such an outstanding FOBISIA Leadership Conference. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such a dynamic team at HQ as they are such talented, dedicated, and passionate colleagues. The success of this event is a true testament to the collective effort and commitment of everyone involved. Together, we've created an experience that I know has left a lasting impact on our community, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of such an amazing team.
Wishing you all a restful and joyful break. Here’s to another remarkable term ahead!
Vanita Uppal OBE Chair
Nick Sheehan Vice Chair and CPD
Principal Jerudong International School Brunei
Dinah Hawtree Student Events - PE & Sport
Principal Prince of Wales Island International School, Penang Director The British School New Delhi
Caroline Drumm Communications and Marketing
Principal The British School Kathmandu
B O A R D M E M B E R S
Head of School
Duncan Stonehouse Treasurer and HQ Support
Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School
Principal British School Jakarta
CEO Tanglin Trust School
H E A D Q U A R T E R S
John Gwyn Jones MBE Chief Executive Officer ceo@fobisia.org
INAUGURAL FOBISIA VIRTUAL RECRUITMENT FAIR A RESOUNDING SUCCESS
FOBISIA held its first Virtual Recruitment Fair on 30 November 2024 - funded by FOBISIA and delivered in partnership with Eteach, a global EdTech company specialising in cost effective Education Recruitment.
The Fair provided an exceptional platform for teachers exploring international teaching opportunities, and had over 2000 vetted candidates in attendance, 67 Member Schools exhibiting, and a total of 371 jobs on offer resulting in over 2,300 job applications. The event recorded impressive engagement metrics, including over 6,000 School Stand visits, 783 private chats with schools, and 1,286 public chats.
The six-hour fair was designed to accommodate diverse time zones and featured a range of engaging Country Highlights from participating schools across Asia, from Japan to Uzbekistan. These segments offered insights into life in new destinations, including induction processes, worklife balance, salaries, benefits, and cultural adjustments.
The event also featured expert sessions, including Finance & Tax guidance from The Tax Man UK, insights into International ECT Induction from Mark Bignell of ESP Education, and a thought-provoking talk on Embracing Cultural Differences by Samuel Kabir Morgan, Partner to The International College.
This Virtual Recruitment Fair gave teachers a rare opportunity to find out first hand from principals and HR managers what it’s like to teach in some of Asia’s most prestigious international schools.
FOBISIA and Eteach are delighted to announce the next fair, scheduled for 15 February 2025. Don’t miss
FOBISIA 2024-25
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2024
AQ
NOV - APR Music Virtual Concerto Competition
DECEMBER 2024
AQ
Refer to Member Support page on www.fobisia.org for calendar updates. Dates for in-person events do not include travel days (with the exception of the FOBISIA Games). FOBISIA events may be subject to change. Student events:
Jerudong International School Brunei
04/12 - 08/12 Drama Senior Drama Festival The British School New Delhi
05/12 - 07/12 Sport Inv'l Gymnastics British School Jakarta
06/12 - 07/12 Academic FOBISIA Chess
Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside
07/12 - 08/12 Sport Inv'l U12, U14, U16, 18 & Under Rugby Invitational & Representative Team Selection Marlborough College Malaysia
JANUARY 2025
AQ
13/01 - 28/02 Academic Photography Competition (online) The English School of Mongolia
16/01 - 18/01 Academic Secondary Maths Competition Garden International School Kuala Lumpur 17/01 JAWS Sixth Form Leaders JAWS
School Hong Kong
17/01 - 18/01 Sport Inv'l U13 & U15 Volleyball Rugby School Thailand
17/01 - 19/01 Music FOBISIA Battle of the Bands 2025
23/01 - 26/01 Sport Inv'l U18 & Under Touch Rugby @ venue TBC, Thailand
FEBRUARY 2025
AQ
17/02 - 21/02 Sport Games FOBISIA U13 GAMES - Orange Group
20/02 - 21/02 Sport Inv'l U13, U15, Over15 Climbing @ Camp 5, 1 Utama, Kuala Lumpur
Nexus International School, Malaysia
Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside
Sports Management Worldwide
Sri KDU International School (Kota Damansara)
21/02 - 23/02 Sport Inv'l FOBISIA Swimming - Division 1 Event @ Rugby Shool Thailand Rugby School Thailand
02/06 - 06/06 Sport Games FOBISIA PRIMARY GAMES - Red Group
07/06 - 11/06 Sport Games FOBISIA PRIMARY GAMES - White Group
Sports Management Worldwide
Bangkok, Thailand
Jerudong International School, Brunei
Nexus International School, Malaysia
Sports Management Worldwide
The International School @ ParkCity
King Henry VIII College
Sports Management Worldwide
British International School, Phuket
Sports Management Worldwide
Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School
Sports Management Worldwide
Dulwich College (Singapore)
Panyathip British International School
Sports Management Worldwide
British School Jakarta
Sports Management Worldwide
Bangkok Patana School
Marlborough College Malaysia
Sports Management Worldwide
Sports Management Worldwide
AFFILIATE MEMBERS
We understand the importance of providing our School Members with support to enhance their educational journey. That's why we highly value our Affiliate Members, who play a vital role in offering valuable products and services to meet the unique needs of our Schools.
Our Affiliate Members encompass a diverse array of organisations and businesses that cater to the educational sector. From curriculum providers and technology companies to school furniture suppliers and professional development trainers, these members bring a wealth of expertise and offerings to our network.
As a Member School, if you are looking for specific products or services, we encourage you to explore the offerings of our Affiliate Members. Reach out to them and mention you are a FOBISIA Member School and many offer discounts or special deals.
See all of our Affiliate Members on the website here
FRIENDS OF FOBISIA
Our Friends of FOBISIA Membership is open for a limited number of British international schools located outside of Asia, in order to strengthen our connections beyond the region.
See all of our Friends of FOBISIA Members on the website here
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS
Individual Members are a growing group of people who were previous Heads of School in a FOBISIA School. Their membership helps us to maintain an active network of experienced leaders and we can benefit from the knowledge and experience that they bring. We acknowledge those Individual Members who were also former Chairs of the FOBISIA Board or Founding Members as Honorary Individual Members.
See all of our Individual Members on the website here
FOBISIA - MAKING CONNECTIONS
FOBISIA CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE, along with the HQ team and Heads' Membership Visit Group, have been actively engaging in the region and beyond to represent FOBISIA and foster stronger connections.
CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE was invited to represent FOBISIA at the HMC Conference in Belfast from 30 September to 2 October, where 10 Member school Heads attended. FOBISIA Chair, Vanita Uppal OBE, chairs the International Division of HMC.
CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE was recently invited to take part in a round table event hosted by The Rt. Hon. Douglas Alexander MP, UK Minister of State for Trade Policy (seen here) along with H.E. Mark Gooding OBE, the British Ambassador to Thailand.
at
John had the privilege of meeting Adam Peaty OBE, the first British swimmer to successfully defend an Olympic title, during the AoBSO Conference held in the UK.
Three Committee meetings have been hosted
FOBISIA HQ this term; The Communications Committee led by Caroline Drumm, Principal of The British School, Kathmandu; The Membership Committee chaired by Martin Towse, Principal of St. Christopher’s International School, Penang; and the CPD Committee chaired by Julia Armstrong of Kellett School Hong Kong.
John Gwyn Jones MBE and Janine Minchin, Student Events Executive, attended the PE and Sport Conference hosted by the British School Manila 12-14 September, 2024.
CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE and Duncan Stonehouse, Head of School at Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School, visited Harrow International School Shanghai as part of the Candidate school process.
Sam Gipson, Principal of Kinabalu International School led the team to visit Panaga School 20-21 June 2024 as part of the application process. Joining him on the visit are Neil Elrick, Director at Charter International School, Barry Stockton, Principal of Traill International School.
John Gwyn Jones MBE and Janine Minchin, Student Events Executive, participated in the Drama Executive Committee meeting hosted by St Andrews International School Bangkok.
John Gwyn Jones MBE, CEO and David Butcher, Principal of British School Jakarta, met with the Head and members of the Board of Directors of Phoenix House International School during a visit to the school as part of the application to become a FOBISIA member.
Cambodia became the 20th FOBISIA Member country after CEO John Gwyn Jones MBE and Paul Schofield, Head of School St. Andrew's International School Bangkok, visited Northbridge International School Cambodia 22-23 August 2024.
Nick Belcher, Principal Invictus International School Bukit Timah, Singapore, Trevor Spence, Executive Principal Sri KDU International School (Kota Damansara), and Duncan Stonehouse Head of School Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School visited Brighton College (Singapore) 27-28 May 2024 as part of the process to join FOBISIA.
Gwyn Jones MBE and Janine Minchin, Student Events Executive, participated in the Music Executive Committee meeting hosted by Denla British School, Bangkok.
Drama Executive Committee meeting
John
Music Executive Committee meeting
THE 31ST FOBISIA LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE:
EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S LEADERS
Dawn
Jones Marketing & Communications Executive FOBISIA HQ
From 15th to 17th November, the 31st FOBISIA Annual Leadership Conference brought together nearly 450 delegates made up of Heads and Senior Leaders from our Member Schools, along with Individual Members, representatives from other organisations, and approximately 70 Affiliate Member Exhibitors and Sponsors. This flagship event served as a platform for collaboration, inspiration, and networking, reflecting the theme, "Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders: Nurturing Sustainable Communities in Education."
The conference featured an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, each bringing unique perspectives to the discussions. Entrepreneur and conservationist Jeroen van de Waal inspired attendees with his vision for environmental stewardship, Nicola Morgan shared valuable insights on resilience, Diana Osagie delivered a thought-provoking session on Juggernaut Thinking, and Rose Luckin explored the intersection of AI and education.
Complementing the keynotes were fantastic workshops hosted by Member Schools, Exhibitors, and a special guest presenter, Mr P ICT. These sessions covered a broad range of topics, enabling participants to delve deeper into best practices, innovative ideas, and strategies to empower their teams and communities. Collaborative roundtables further enriched the conference, fostering meaningful discussions and the exchange of ideas among educational leaders.
Students from local schools also played a valuable role in the event. Three captivating student performances added a touch of vibrancy to the program, while the Sustainability Panel highlighted the remarkable talent and vision of our students. Their contributions underscored the importance of nurturing student voices in shaping a sustainable future.
Networking and camaraderie were key elements of the conference, with two delightful evening events providing opportunities to connect in a relaxed and informal setting. These gatherings allowed attendees to strengthen professional relationships and unwind after the day’s sessions.
The success of the 31st FOBISIA Leadership Conference is a testament to the dedication of all involved—from the inspiring speakers and workshop hosts to the Affiliate Members, sponsors, and student contributors. This event not only celebrated the spirit of leadership but also reinforced our commitment to fostering sustainable communities within education.
We look forward to building on the momentum of this year’s conference as we continue to empower leaders and educators in the FOBISIA network.
THE 31ST FOBISIA LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
THE GREAT TEACHING TOOLKIT
Trusted by over a third of FOBISIA Schools, the Great Teaching Toolkit helps teachers to: set specific goals build understanding develop skills embed habits
Find out more: evidencebased.education
Request a sample or discover more
Holy Mary British Catholic School, Madrid
“We’ve been so impressed with how much progress children have made already! We love the consistent approach it has provided and the results speak for themselves ”
Set your students up for academic success with up to 3x the expected rate of improvement.
Gain unlimited access to expert international literacy support and comprehensive staff training. FFT’s complete literacy package covers all bases: from assessing baseline ability to core early-reading teaching and catch-up support.
Introducing MyConcern, the next generation of safeguarding reporting software – trusted by schools in over 70 countries!
Our all-in-one software simplifies record-keeping, case management and anonymous reporting, helping to reduce the growing pressure of managing concerns.
Secure
Use one system to access all information. Everything is at your fingertips and can be shared with the right people at the right time.
Organised
Easily identify trends and patterns early so you can address issues before they escalate.
Confidential
Show your commitment to child protection by providing links for your whole community to report concerns.
Anonymous
Promote trust by enabling anonymous reporting – making sure nothing gets missed.
Because one missed report is one too many. Now
For invaluable safeguarding insights, read our international safeguarding report .
How we can help
We
2024 FOBISIA MUSIC TEACHERS’ CONFERENCE
Jonathan Ang
Director of Creative & Performing Arts
DBS Denla British School
The 2024 FOBISIA Music Teachers’ Conference, hosted at DBS Denla British School in Bangkok, was a vibrant and deeply enriching event that brought together nearly 130 passionate music educators and over 20 Affiliate Members from across Asia. From the 26th to the 28th of September, the conference served as a platform for professional development, collaboration, and inspiration. Delegates had the opportunity to participate in a wide array of breakout sessions, keynote presentations, and networking activities, all aimed at promoting music education across the region.
The conference kicked off with a vibrant welcome performance by DBS students, who demonstrated their collective talent through a diverse set of pieces in the form of orchestral works and choir performances. This opening set the stage for the event, symbolising the high-quality performances that are a hallmark of the FOBISIA network’s commitment to musical excellence.
Delegates had the opportunity to attend engaging keynote presentations by Naveen Arles and Jim Frankel, both of whom brought unique and insightful perspectives to the table. Naveen inspired educators with his keynote on
building inclusive and dynamic choral environments, pushing the boundaries of traditional choral work to embrace wider participation and diversity in music-making. Jim, from MusicFirst, presented cutting-edge ideas on integrating digital technology into music education, showcasing how AI can enhance both teaching and learning in today’s classrooms.
Visiting workshop facilitators Filipe Sousa and Kate Smith also played key roles, not only as keynote speakers but also by leading creative workshops with the DBS Orchestra and Chamber Choir in the days leading up to the event. The students' journey through creativity and improvisation culminated in an emotive showcase during their keynote presentation - a moving demonstration of the power of collaboration and community. This workshop process embodied the spirit of the conference - fostering bold, innovative approaches to music-making and pushing the boundaries of traditional performances. Indeed, all keynotes were enthusiastically received, offering practical yet diverse insights and forward-thinking strategies that resonated with attendees.
Networking played a central role throughout the event, as delegates connected not just with each other but also with affiliate sponsors, deepening ties between schools and service providers within the FOBISIA network. The conference facilitated opportunities for educators to engage with those providing the tools and technologies they use in their everyday work, making it easier to bring new ideas and products into their schools. Another unique feature of this year’s conference was the "jamming hubs," where delegates could gather, pick up an instrument, and make music together. This spontaneous music-making underscored the collaborative and informal spirit of the conference. Whether jamming in designated spaces, sharing ideas over refreshments, or unwinding at the dinner cruise down the Chao Phraya river, there was a palpable sense of community.
In all, the 2024 FOBISIA Music Teachers’ Conference successfully reinforced the importance of collaboration, creativity, and innovation in music education, leaving delegates inspired and equipped with new ideas, resources, and connections to bring back to their schools. The event was a true celebration of the strength and diversity of the FOBISIA music community.
FOBISIA DRAMA CONFERENCE 2024
Alex Hughes Head of Drama
St. Andrews International School Bangkok
Can you imagine 60 drama teachers all together in one room?
A group of 60 of us assembled this September for the annual FOBISIA Drama Conference hosted by our drama department at St Andrews International School in Bangkok. Following in Paul Hannon’s footsteps after his inspiring and thought-provoking 2023 conference in Manila, I have to admit I jumped at the opportunity of hosting as soon as we were asked if anyone might be interested, and there wasn’t a moment of doubt in my choice of practitioner.
Ned Glasier, a director and theatre-maker from North London, began his journey in theatre as part of the Almeida Theatre's education department in Islington. In 2007, he became Artistic Director of what was then Islington Borough Theatre, transforming it into the
award-winning youth theatre and Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation now known as Company Three. Ned stepped down in January 2023 and brought his expertise and innovative co-creation process to the FOBISIA drama community.
Within five minutes of Ned introducing himself to the room on day one of the conference it was clear to all that we were in the presence of someone who was passionate about theatre and its ability to make change, but even more so passionate about offering young people a chance to be seen and heard. We chuckled about how many times young people are asked to play adults in drama and were reminded, with a shudder and wince, of the old talcumpowder-on-hair/suit jacket/top hat classic costume choice that reigned in many of our own childhood youth theatre experiences. We were asked to consider how often we really do ensure we give students the opportunity to truly be themselves, to share their own experiences - to give them the opportunity to create work that authentically expresses the things they want to say.
There’s a goosebump-invoking moment in Ned’s most wellknown play ‘Brainstorm’ where Gracia, one of the central original company members looks directly into the audience and slowly and assuredly says, ‘Look at us. Look at us. Look at us.’ It’s such a powerful moment because this is the National Theatre and the audience are witnessing a group of young people all just being authentically themselves on the stage. And this, in many ways, is totally central to Ned’s work with young people which goes way beyond just making plays. He wants educators to see young people for who they are right now, not who we want them to become or who we hope to turn them into. In Ned’s play Brainstorm, Yaamin tells us, ‘I’m scared. And you’re scared. Because who I am might not be who you want me to be. Or who you are.’ So much of what we do in schools is through the lens of preparing young people to become adults that sometimes we forget to truly appreciate them for who they are right now. Why do we forget what it’s really like to be a teenager when we have all been one and we spend every single day in their company?
Brainstorm tackles this idea head on. The set design is a series of messy bedrooms all merged into one - a visual metaphor for the ‘loads and loads and loads of synapses’ that Gracia describes to us in the opening scene. She informs us that teenage brains are ‘like, really messy’.
The play switches back and forth between the scientific content about the complex and extraordinary changes in the human brain through adolescence (something that every teacher should know), and the personal contentreal stories and experiences crafted by the young people themselves. The climax is an argument between Yaamin and his mum about chicken. (Who knew that an argument about buying the wrong chicken from the supermarket could be so tense and heartbreaking.)
Schools are welcome to direct this play but are asked to follow the blueprint in order to ensure that your production is relevant and personal to your own students and their experiences and contexts.
During our two full days with Ned, we moved in and out of small company groups, following the process of co-creation from source to performance, culminating in beautiful company performances. Another reminder of the skill, talent and passion for our subject that we have amongst us in our drama community.
Ned expressed how a good source for a meaningful piece of drama needs to be relevant, meaningful and specific to the group. That’s exactly how we naturally landed on our source - the tortoises of St Andrews (yes, our school boasts many things, including two beautiful and much adored tortoisesAmber and Neo).
Once our source was identified we wrote as many questions about the source as we could in a short time frame.
Random tangents were allowed, actually they were encouraged and celebrated. Questions soon turned from tortoises to questions about love, loneliness, freedom, captivity, the passing of time and the process of ageing. Who we are is revealed in the questions we choose to ask. Our questions reveal our personal curiosity. We were asked to research our favourite question from our own list and then turn that material into a short solo performance according to a given art form. I’d love to see our collective Google search history for that session as we gathered fragments of information from all sorts of brilliantly bizarre questions, stemming from our initial curiosity about Amber and Neo.
‘Strong and wrong’ is one of Ned’s key expressions. How refreshing and liberating it is to be told, ‘Now we are going to make loads and loads of work and some of it is going to be rubbish and that’s ok!’ Many participants commented on Ned’s ability to make people feel comfortable and not afraid to fail. Failure was celebrated. People were eliminated from games to huge rounds of applause. There was a LOT of laughter.
Along with the three founding rules of Company Three (hence the name) - Be brave, be kind, be yourself, Ned’s important rules of sharing have remained with us in our department long after he boarded his flight back to Heathrow - don’t apologise. Don’t explain. Just share.
Two days spent in the diverse company of such outstanding and inspiring teachers is always nourishment for the soul as well as our professional practice. No one bonds as quickly as a room full of drama teachers - we wear our emotions on our sleeve and we really, really care. From the initial moments of animated loud chatter as everyone rushes to greet each other again to the moments of pindrop silence as people give their full selves to showing and witnessing beautiful, brave work, this was so much more than just another professional development course.
But professional development it was: with comments like “The content and choice of speaker was amazing, really inspirational guy and lots of really useful stuff I could take back into the class room and start using”, “An exceptional event - the best and most useful PD I have experienced” and “The programme gave me so many different practical examples of tasks which I have started using with some of my classes”, I was delighted with the outcomes. Thank you so much to everyone who came and generously gave their time, trust and energy to our conference. The ripples of these two days will continue to move far and wide in both space and time within all of our schools.
FOBISIA PE & SPORT CONFERENCE 2024:
A CELEBRATION OF LEADERSHIP & SPORTING INSPIRATION
Gareth Pearson Director of Activities & Sports British
School Manila
In September 2024, the British School Manila proudly hosted the annual FOBISIA PE & Sport Conference, welcoming 120 Heads of PE and Directors of Sport from across the region. The conference, alongside the AGM, provided an invaluable platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and professional development, bringing together representatives from 79 FOBISIA schools.
This year's theme, Leadership and Sporting Inspiration, focused on advancing innovative approaches to physical education and sports leadership. The programme featured a rich mix of workshops, keynote presentations, and interactive sessions, all aimed at challenging traditional methods while exploring the latest practices in PE and Sport. All the keynote speakers and presenters delivered thought-provoking insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of sports education.
A key highlight of the event was the emphasis on collaboration between FOBISIA schools. The ‘roundtable’ discussions during the AGM sparked a wealth of meaningful conversations, leading to fresh ideas and strategies that are set to enhance future competitions and improve curriculums across the region. Many of these ideas are set to shape upcoming FOBISIA events, enhancing opportunities for the entire community.
As hosts, the British School Manila was thrilled to see such strong engagement and enthusiasm from all attendees. The event not only showcased the immense talent and dedication within the FOBISIA community but also highlighted the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in advancing physical education. The energy and excitement generated at the conference will undoubtedly influence the way FOBISIA schools approach PE and Sport for years to come.
The FOBISIA PE & Sport Conference 2024 was a celebration of leadership and inspiration, and it served as a powerful reminder of the vital role physical education and sports play in fostering both personal and professional growth within schools.
FOBISIA INTERMEDIATE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2024
Stephen Tomlinson
Assistant Faculty Leader of Arts (Co-curricular Music)
British School Jakarta
DAY 1:
The first official day of the conference began on 17th May, with a lively welcome at the BSJ Raffles Theatre. Participants were introduced to the conference agenda and treated to the traditional Tor-tor dance. Following this, students were divided into choir and orchestra groups, diving straight into rehearsals that lasted through the morning. This was a crucial time for the young musicians to familiarise themselves with the repertoire and get to know one another.
Workshops were a highlight of the conference, and Day 1 offered an exciting range of activities, including sessions on traditional Indonesian instruments such as angklung, gamelan, and Sumatran drumming. These sessions helped students engage with local culture while expanding their musical experiences. The day ended with a concert featuring performances from Sekolah Diponegoro and BSJ students, as well as professional performers from Taman Mini, giving participants a vibrant introduction to Indonesia's musical heritage.
The FOBISIA Intermediate Festival 2024 took place 17 international schools across the region for a was a perfect blend of learning and sharing music
DAY 2:
The 18th of May saw participants refining their performances through more intensive rehearsals and sectionals in choir and orchestra settings. The students then participated in their second workshop, allowing them to continue exploring traditional Indonesian music and dance.
A particular highlight of day two was an interactive angklung performance, where all students and teachers learned how to play this distinctive bamboo instrument under the guidance of Saung Angklung Udjo, a worldrenowned group. The evening was filled with more cultural exchange as students and teachers attended an Indonesian food bazaar and enjoyed traditional dance performances, including the famous Tari Saman, further deepening their appreciation of the local culture.
place from May 17th to 19th at the British School Jakarta (BSJ). It brought together 250 students from weekend of musical collaboration, cultural exploration, and performance opportunities. The event music while immersing participants in Indonesia's rich cultural traditions.
DAY 3:
On the final day of the festival, 19th May, students arrived at BSJ wearing batik performance clothing. They then spent the morning participating in final rehearsals for the concert that would conclude the weekend's festivities. After a photoshoot and lunch, participants gathered at the Raffles Theatre for the closing concert, where the hard work and dedication of the young musicians shone through.
The FOBISIA Intermediate Festival 2024 not only showcased the talent of the FOBISIA community but also highlighted the importance of cultural exchange through music. The combination of rehearsals, workshops, and performances created a dynamic and enriching experience for everyone involved, leaving lasting memories of music, collaboration, and Indonesian culture.
Year 4 - 1st
Student: Skylar School: Stonyhurst
International School Teacher: Dawn Lee
FOBISIA PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION 2024
Gemma Kate Jessop
Head of Art & Design Technology
HELP International School
The esteemed 2024 FOBISA Photography competition was based on the theme of ‘Technology; The Future vs the Past. How has Technology Progressed Over Time?’ was a huge success with over 15 FOBISIA Schools participating in the competition.
Students had freedom to manipulate and edit their image using any chosen method, from Adobe Photoshop to Photopea, even to hand and traditional techniques, it was wonderful to see so many diverse and creative outcomes.
Year 5 - 1st
Student: Emma School: British
International School
Ho Chi Minh City
Teacher: Jamie Patrick
Year 6 - 1st
Student: Hudson School: Garden
International School Teacher: Philippe
Delmotte
Year 7 - 1
Student: Ansley School: Stonyhurst International School Teacher: Dawn Lee
Year 8 - 1st
Student: Yui School: Regents
International School
Bangkok Teacher: Elizabeth
Year 9 - 1st
Student: Sky School: Traill
International School Teacher: Sarah Bond
Year 10 - 1st
Student: Taechin School: Bromsgrove International School Teacher: James
Melville Lowe
Year 11 - 1st
Student: Jerry School: Huili School
Hangzhou Teacher: Leif Raiha
Year 12 - 1st
Student: Esti School: King Henry VII College Teacher: Sabina Way
Year 13 - 1st
Student: Amina School: Haileybury
Astana Teacher: Hannah Movassagh-Nekounam
TRACK TO SUCCESS: A CIVIL ENGINEERING DESIGN CHALLENGE
Anna Glossop Deputy Principal Prince of Wales Island International School (Tanjung Bungah Campus)
Last academic year the Track to Success '24 competition challenged our young designers to dream up, design, model and report on a new sustainable light railway system. We wanted to focus on civil engineering, sustainability, and urban planning whilst keeping the connection of people at the heart of the challenge.
Our students were tasked with creating models and computer-aided designs (CAD) of their light railway systems that could effectively connect various communities within a city or other designated areas. This competition not only highlighted the technical skills and ingenuity of the students but also underscored their commitment to sustainability and improving urban mobility.
The entries from our students were incredible, making judging very tough! Each submission reflected a deep understanding of the complexities involved in designing a modern transportation system, as well as a keen awareness of environmental considerations. The students employed a variety of materials and technologies to bring their visions to life, demonstrating both creativity and technical prowess. All of the students summarized and supported their work in a written report.
The models varied widely in design and scale, from intricate small-scale prototypes to larger, more detailed constructions. These models were meticulously crafted, with attention to detail evident in every aspect. The use of recycled and sustainable materials in many models highlighted the students' dedication to environmentally friendly practices.
The entries that we received thoughtfully incorporated the use of green technologies and sustainable practices. Many entries featured solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy sources to power the railway systems. Many of the designs included green spaces, eco-friendly materials, and innovative waste management solutions too.
The FOBISIA, Class of Your Own (Design Engineer Construct), and POWIIS collaboration has truly created an inspiring and enriching experience for all participants. These partnerships give students an opportunity to work on a real design brief that challenges them to think beyond the classroom. The competition not only celebrated the students' technical achievements but also encouraged them to think critically about the role of sustainable transportation in shaping the future of our cities. By engaging with real-world problems and exploring practical solutions, the students have gained valuable insights and skills that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
Overall, the entries were very impressive and showed the caliber of young, sustainably minded designers and model makers across our FOBISIA schools network.
We thoroughly enjoyed the competition and through all of the incredible responses and clearly the huge amount of hard work from both students and staff that has gone into this competition. Thank you to all of the teacher’s out there for your support and our congratulations to the winners - you can take a look at all of them on the event website, here
WINNER - YEAR 5: GROUP WORK
Harrow International School Bangkok
Students : Torch, Indy, Ilada, Kiss, Christopher, Mavin, Piper, Ivy, Thee, Anthon | Teacher: Laura Taylor
WINNER - YEAR 7: GROUP WORK
Prince of Wales Island International School
Tanjung Bungah (POWIIS TB)
Students: Olivia, Jeslyn, Ker Jun | Teacher: AJ Ocampo
WINNER - YEAR 8: GROUP WORK
Prince of Wales Island International School
Balik Pulau (POWIIS)
Students : Roco, Hayley, Chee Xian, Jayde | Teacher : Ms Taha
WINNER - YEAR 9: GROUP WORK
The International School @ Park City
Students: Natalie and Jason
Teacher: Daniel Wilson
WINNER - YEAR 9/YEAR 10: GROUP WORK
Jerudong International School
Students: Jumilo, Ollie, Amelia, Akshat, Miny, Baqi, Shaun, Claudia, Yoonjae, Jessica | Teacher: Gary England
WINNER - YEAR 10: GROUP WORK
The International School @ Park City
Students: Tiger, Melmond, Joshua, Yophie, Ofelia, Benson Teacher: Daniel Wilson
WINNER - KS5
The International School @ Park City
Students: Shen Yi, Vlada, Freya, Aryff, Hafsa, Bryan Teacher: Daniel Wilson
British International School, Phuket (BISP) successfully hosted the FOBISIA Mathematics Code Breaking competition for the third successive year. Initially planned as a standalone event, it was brought back by popular demand. The virtual event was another huge success with 125 schools taking part from across Asia, and this year they were joined by invited schools from Europe and the Americas.
We had entrants from Year 4s to Year 13s - and overall there were more than 42,000 leaderboard entries from 22,500 competitors – a fantastic achievement!
Students had to work through a variety of codes, and those that cracked all codes in a level got to add their names to the leaderboard. This year there were 6 different code levels – including a Murder Mystery, a Spy Challenge and a fiendishly difficult Test of Genius Challenge.
FOBISIA Headquarters had the following to say about the event:
The British International School Phuket has once again delivered an outstanding FOBISIA Online Maths Codebreaking event. Nearly all of our Member Schools participated, alongside other schools around the world. Congratulations to BISP for hosting such a phenomenal event, and we hope both students and teachers enjoyed the codebreaking challenge!
FOBISIA HQ
A special mention to Dulwich College Singapore (1st), North London Collegiate Jeju (2nd) and Bangkok Patana School (3rd) for picking up the top 3 positions. These three schools collectively achieved over 4500 leaderboard entrants between them. Well done!
Although the competition is closed, you can still have a go at the challenges on BISP's codecracking website: https://schoolcodebreaking.com
Thank you so much for organizing! Our kids really enjoyed it. Codebreaking is something that attracts everyone's attention, from lower to high performers. It truly is an inclusive event.
Anja Mori, Wellington College International Shanghai
What an exciting range of activities and they got progressively more difficult. The children were very excited to crack the codes and it was very user friendly. An excellent, free event.
Karyn Mavor, Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School
Ratio of ease to administer to student engagement is awesome!
Will Hebbron, NLCS Jeju
This event is brilliant, and I cannot imagine how long it takes to put together. It has been great for showing students that Maths can take many forms!
Toby Gilbert
Bishop Mackenzie International School, Malawi
FOBISIA POETRY COMPETITION
Caroline Anthonysamy Head of English
The English School of Mongolia
It was with great pleasure that our school, The English School of Mongolia, hosted the FOBISIA Poetry Competition for the first time this year. The experience was both exhilarating and rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate the power of words and nurture young poetic talents across our region.
The preparation phase was particularly enriching, as I had the privilege of engaging in stimulating discussions with our esteemed Secondary English department. Together, we deliberated on themes that would inspire our young poets and crafted guidelines to ensure a fair and inclusive competition. The collaborative spirit of our team was truly remarkable, and I'm grateful for the invaluable support provided by Connor and Janine throughout the process.
The competition itself was a testament to the creative intelligence of our FOBISIA students. Participants from 26 Member schools submitted entries that spanned a wide range of poetic styles and themes, from heartfelt personal narratives to thought-provoking commentaries on the theme love and culture. The judging panel, comprised of literary enthusiasts and educators, had the challenging task of selecting winners from an impressive pool of submissions.
We are delighted to share the winners in each age category:
Age Category 7-9
Winner: Chen Chen (Garden International School)
1st Runner Up: Thunjira (Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside)
2nd Runner Up: Yan-ni (Traill International School)
Age Category 10-11
Winner: Kai Milla (Tanglin Trust School)
1st Runner Up: Samara (Garden International School)
2nd Runner Up: Benjamin (North London Collegiate School, Jeju)
Age Category 12-13
Winner: Le Shean (The International School of Penang (Uplands))
1st Runner Up: Michelle (The International School of Penang (Uplands))
2nd Runner Up: Chris (The International School of Penang (Uplands))
Each of these young poets demonstrated exceptional creativity and skill in their works, standing out for their innovative use of imagery and profound exploration of various themes.
Hosting this competition has not only showcased the literary talents within our FOBISIA community but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for poetry among our students. The diverse representation of schools in the winners' list highlights the widespread poetic talent across our region.
As we reflect on this successful endeavour, we look forward to continuing our support for the arts and nurturing the next generation of wordsmiths. The FOBISIA Poetry Competition has undoubtedly set a high standard for future literary events, and we are honoured to have played a part in its success.
Age Category 7-9
Winner: Chen Chen (Garden International School, Kuala Lumpur)
We are all Roses
Here’s to our parents, the grandmas, the grandpas, the unglamorous ones, the clamorous ones.
They stick to the darkness, scooping out their light from the hearts of their souls. Despite it all, they will, they do, they must.
For they have all my trust.
It hurts, sure. It is irrepressibly painful, harsh, sandy, but we proceed.
For in love there is always madness. For there is always sadness.
Maybe this is an entry in a therapist's room, but it is the truth.
In the darkest, there is the brightest light, and that is us.
Your heart aches from it, but maybe they were right, maybe our parents were right sometimes.
Because we are roses, bred to be red and pretty and beautiful and desirable.
But no one sees the thorns. The painful thorns who protect you by prodding you, who protect you from vicious herbivores. The soil occurs before the rose, the water occurs before the growth.
But no sees the stems, and that is them.
The thorns make the flower cry sometimes, heaving out water and nutrients in order to prevent the rotting.
To prevent bloating on the beautiful petals.
I think the true heroes are the thorns.
The thorns, who warn.
My mom, the sepal, who protects, who taught me how to fight.
My dad, the nutrition giver, the roots, teacher of strength, brave traits, a delight.
My grandparents, the stem, stemming up my life, worried for my future.
My relatives, the fruit, the ones who bear me with marks and give me stories to tell, with humour.
But what happens when they go too far?
“Well, they always apologise. They will never, ever stop loving you, they will never ever stop holding you up until the world withers down into a sooty little place of despair, and yet they will still be beside you.
As thorns, or stems, or squashed fruit.”
- Regards, my culture.
Age Category 10-11
Winner: Kai Milla (Tanglin Trust School) Karunanithi from Grimsby
This poem reflects my experiences as a mixed-race individual, my journey of learning to love the experiences that have shaped me. These have strengthened my love for my roots rather than allowing them to make me feel like I need to fit into a box of expectations. To declare how my love for both cultures are differently expressed, my cultures have taught me self love and freedom to be my unapologetically different self.
Age Category 12-13
Winner: Le Shean (The International School of Penang (Uplands))
In my culture, love is expressed subtly, through daily acts of service and sacrifice. It is uncommon to explicitly say 'I love you'. Instead, we peel and slice fruit. My poem depicts love in the meticulous act of peeling grapes, symbolising the attention to detail taken in a simple act.
Mother’s hands
The love in my household is often shown, Through acts of service, not just words alone. It lays in the silence; a lullaby, The ghost of a touch lingers, often shy. Each peeled grape is love’s essence I savour, A small gesture; whispering love’s labour. My mother’s hands sacrifice toil and time, A simple act, so profound and sublime. My bowl, always the bigger half I find. No question. The best for me, with no mind, We fight one another to bear the cost, Where there is sacrifice, where love’s not lost. In my hands I hold weathered hands of thee, Tracing the lines and grooves that have raised me.
FOBISIA 18 & UNDER NETBALL 2024
Kevin Shaw Director of Sport Dulwich College (Singapore)
Sports tournaments enable people to make connections and share experiences like no other means. Dulwich College (Singapore) had the pleasure of welcoming 13 schools in November for the 18 & under netball championships. The students took part in a wonderful festival of netball over the weekend and of course had some time to be able to enjoy the sites and culture of Singapore.
The tournament was played to a high standard with many tight and exciting matches. Many schools were taking part for the first time and
without a doubt this was the highest standard of netball that has been played since this invitational started.
Dulwich College (Singapore) and Marlborough College Malaysia battled out the final on the showcourt in front of over 200 watching people. Jerudong International School and Tanglin Trust School battled hard for the third and fourth places, whilst The International School @ Park City and Bangkok Patana School played each other in the Plate Final.
Overall this was a tournament played in a great spirit with staff and students embracing the concepts of personal growth and challenge. It was refreshing to see so many students enjoying playing and making new friends, hopefully creating positive memories to keep them involved in playing sport for many years to come. On the evidence of the standard of the competition, FOBISIA Netball is here to stay and is growing from strength to strength.
FOBISIA FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT AND TRIALS 2024
Todd Skevington Director of Sports Marlborough College Malaysia
Matt Hammonds FOBISIA PE & Sport Exec, Football Lead Garden International School
Marlborough College Malaysia was delighted to host the 11-aside FOBISIA Football Tournament held on 9th and 10th November 2024. It was a thrilling and action-packed event, filled with moments of brilliance, determination, and sportsmanship. The competition brought together talented young players aged 18 and under from across Asia, providing them with the chance to showcase their skills in both the boys' and girls' categories.
DAY 1:
There was a fantastic atmosphere right from the start of Day One as teams were eager to get underway. In the boys' competition, Shrewsbury Riverside Bangkok (SHR) topped Group A, while The British School Manila (BSM) emerged as the leaders of Group B. On the girls' side, The British School Manila finished at the top of Group A, and The International School of Penang (Uplands), led Group B.
Despite an unexpected delay after lunch due to a thunderstorm, players and coaches showed incredible resilience and once the storm passed, the games resumed, with all group matches being completed on schedule.
After lunch, the girls’ teams played their Cup Semi-Finals and Plate Final. Dulwich College Singapore (DCSG) fought hard and emerged victorious in the Plate Final, while Uplands and SHR won their respective Cup Semi-Finals in tight, competitive matches.
DAY 2:
Day Two saw intense competition in the boys’ Cup and Plate Semi-Finals, with many games decided by penalty shootouts. Shrewsbury Riverside and Jerudong International School progressed to the finals after tense encounters, with Shrewsbury eventually winning 3-1 in a clinical display of football.
In the girls’ competition, Shrewsbury Riverside completed a remarkable double for the school, scoring the winning goal in the last minute of the second extra time period to secure the trophy over a valiant Uplands side. In both the boys' and girls' tournaments, The British School Manila took home the bronze medals, capping off a fantastic weekend of football for the school, having defeated DCSG’s boys and Marlborough College Malaysia’s girls respectively.
The Plate Final in the boys’ tournament saw a thrilling penalty shootout, with The International School @ Park City (ISP) emerging victorious over Marlborough College.
FOBISIA REPRESENTATIVE FOOTBALL TEAM TRIALS
Following the tournament, trials began to select 16 boys and girls for the squads who will represent FOBISIA in Thailand later in the academic year.
During the trials, players were selected for mixed teams based on their performances during the competition, giving them the chance to play alongside peers from various schools across Asia and creating a unique opportunity for growth and collaboration.
Despite their fatigue from the weekend’s intense matches, players gave their all during the trial games. The feedback from all involved was overwhelmingly positive and the players demonstrated exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship throughout.
Notably, the boys’ team was made up of players from six different schools, with two further schools represented in the non-travelling reserves. The girls’ squad also featured players from six schools, highlighting the diversity and collaboration within the competition.
Congratulations to the students from Shrewsbury Riverside Bangkok, Dulwich College Singapore, The British School Manila, Marlborough College Malaysia, Jerudong International School Brunei, Shenzhen College of International Education, The International School of Penang (Uplands) and Taipei European School for being selected to represent FOBISIA. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the founding representative teams and all students should be very proud of being selected. We would like to thank all schools involved for their support and we hope that they, and other schools, will be joining us again next year to be part of something special.
We would also like to thank all coaches on the ground for assisting in the team selections as well as acknowledge the role of our lead coaches from Shrewsbury Riverside, Bangkok and Garden International School, Sathorn, Bangkok. We would also like to acknowledge the role and support from our kit sponsors, The Yang Foundation for their continued support for this new initiative.
Overall, the weekend was a tremendous success. It was wonderful to see the high level of football talent from across the region as well as the camaraderie and sportsmanship on display. Players went from competing in their own teams to working together in mixed teams, showing mutual respect and support for each other. We look forward to seeing the FOBISIA Representative Team make their debut on the international stage in Thailand later this year.
WHAT IS THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS SAFEGUARDING COALITION (BISSC)?
Officially launched in November 2023, The British International Schools Safeguarding Coalition (BISSC) brings together the six UK Government recognised schools associations worldwide; FOBISIA, COBIS, AoBSO, BSME, LAHC, NABS in partnership with The Safeguarding Alliance.
WHAT INSPIRED THE CREATION OF THE COALITION?
The FOBISIA Safeguarding Executive Committee was formed in 2018 following a Safeguarding JAWS at The British School Manila. Vanita Uppal OBE, Chair of FOBISIA, and John Gwyn Jones MBE, FOBISIA CEO, have been tireless supporters since its inception.
One key goal of the committee is enhancing safer recruitment practices within and beyond the federation. A collaboration with The Latin American Heads Conference in 2020, prompted by John, inspired the first formal BISSC meeting in January 2023. This coalition reflects a shared commitment to the highest standards in international safeguarding.
A CLOSER LOOK:
HOW DOES FOBISIA COLLABORATE WITH BISSC, AND WHAT ROLE DOES THE FEDERATION PLAY IN SUPPORTING ITS INITIATIVES?
Roisin, Safeguarding Executive Chair, represents FOBISIA as a member of BISSC. Proposals and developments are reviewed and discussed with Executive Committee members who in turn, facilitate the flow of information to and from safeguarding officers within their respective regions.
The recent FOBISIA Leadership Conference was attended by many representatives of BISSC member associations. This supported collaboration and fuelled a roundtable discussion focused on safeguarding matters. We have planned a formal update on BISSC initiatives as part of the upcoming FOBISIA Safeguarding and Pastoral Care Conference at Marlborough College Malaysia in May, 2025.
WHAT VALUE DOES BEING PART OF BISSC BRING TO THE FOBISIA COMMUNITY, PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF SAFEGUARDING PRACTICES?
Being part of BISCC brings significant value to the FOBISIA community, particularly in the field of safer recruitment. By collaborating with other British schools associations, BISCC has made substantial progress in the areas below:
Enhancing Safeguarding Standards:
• The development of cross-Association Safer Recruitment Guidelines: to promote clear advice in relation to internationally recognised best practice.
• Updated Guidance: Incorporated best practice advice from The International Task Force for Child Protection and existing association documentation to promote high standards.
• Advocacy for Stronger Regulations: Lobbying the UK Department of Education to expand the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) to include international schools. This will improve background checks and prevent individuals with misconduct records from moving between schools.
• Development of a ‘Keeping Children Safe in International Education’ Document: Working with the UK Department of Education to create a tailored safeguarding document for international schools, addressing specific challenges and risks.
Strengthened Network and Knowledge Sharing:
• Centralised Platform: Creating a dedicated space for BISCC activities, news, and resources to foster collaboration and information sharing.
• Shared Safeguarding Information: Establishing mechanisms for associations to exchange crucial safeguarding information to protect children and adults.
• Expanded Safeguarding Support Network: Building a wider network of experts to provide comprehensive support and guidance.
IN YOUR VIEW, WHAT ARE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENTS OR MILESTONES
BISSC HAS REACHED SO FAR? HOW HAVE THESE IMPACTED SCHOOLS IN THE REGION?
BISSC has brought a broader group of organisations together including The National Crime Agency, UK and the four UK Teaching Regulation Agencies. BISSC’s research provided a foundation for professional dialogue, which has led to significant developments. BISSC’s recommendations have also influenced policies, systems and procedures within associations.
LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT ARE BISSC'S KEY PRIORITIES, AND HOW CAN FOBISIA MEMBER SCHOOLS CONTRIBUTE TO AND BENEFIT FROM THE COALITION’S WORK?
By attending The FOBISIA Safeguarding and Pastoral Care Conference, FOBISIA member schools can contribute to key discussions and developments.
Safeguarding officers in member schools can always share their views and needs with their regional safeguarding representative. Through collaboration member schools benefit from:
• Improved Safeguarding Practices: Access to best practices, guidelines, and training to strengthen their safeguarding procedures.
• Enhanced Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to child protection and safeguarding.
• Reduced Risk: Identifying and mitigating risks by adopting robust recruitment and safeguarding systems.
• Stronger Support: Networking with international schools from across the globe and sharing experiences.
• Advocacy Power: Collectively advocating for stronger regulations and policies that keep children safe.
By working together, BISCC and its member associations can create a safer and more secure future for children in international education.
Roisin Pearson Designated Safeguarding Lead British School Manila
Darshak Pandya Deputy Head (Pastoral) / Designated Safeguarding Lead Haileybury Almaty
Fusing STEAM and SDGs
Warda Muse Head of Department - Chemistry
Jerudong International School Brunei warda.muse@jis.edu.bn
Impactful education isn’t just about preparing students for the future, it’s about empowering them to shape it. This is why, at Jerudong International School, we’ve committed to a bold vision for our students. A vision which fuses Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with an interdisciplinary approach to spark curiosity, enhance critical thinking and encourage creativity across every classroom.
Enter our STEAM programme.
Through STEAM, we’ve strategically integrated with existing school initiatives like the Polio Points system, which inspires students to take small, innovative actions - our “teaspoons of change” - that contribute to larger societal transformations. Alongside this, our Green Flag Priorities focus on environmental sustainability, encouraging students to think creatively about the world around them. Using the SDGs as a roadmap, our STEAM programme aims to inspire students to turn their innovative ideas into impactful, real-world solutions.
Building STEAM from the Ground Up
Our STEAM journey is still in its early stages, but we’ve already made great strides towards embedding it into the core of our school’s culture.
Early on, we recognised that for STEAM to drive innovation as an educational force, it couldn’t simply exist as an extracurricular initiative - it needed to be an integral part of the academic fabric. In other words, STEAM had to exist within our core curriculum. So, for our vision of STEAM to succeed, it needed to achieve synergy between the different subjects.
An example of such a successful integration is provided by our Head of KS3 Science, Zoran Zuvic. Zoran’s innovative restructuring of key science topics to align with other disciplines not only unlocked natural synergies between subjects, but, as part of our larger vision, has served as the bedrock for our school’s fusing of STEAM principles into the entire curriculum.
The Power of Collaboration
Collaboration is central to everything we do in STEAM. With our desire to maximise our range of perspectives, and the level of expertise brought-to-the-table, we’ve established interdisciplinary working groups which bring together teachers from various departments to co-create our wider STEAM programme and collaborative projects.
What sort of impact will this have on our students?
With an emphasis on student agency, these collaborative, interdisciplinary projects are designed to prepare students for academic success and real-world challenges - ones that demand creative, multi-faceted solutions. By carefully aligning these projects with the curriculum goals of each subject, we ensure students meet both the academic outcomes of their subjects and develop the skills and confidence necessary for addressing complex, real-world issues.
As an example, one particularly exciting project planned for our Year 9 students, led by Gary England, our Head of Design and Technology, dives deep into the human and environmental issues of electronic waste. Gary has developed a forward-thinking project that explores the technology life cycle, embedding the principles of a circular economy in an interdisciplinary approach. Emphasising that sustainability starts by designing with the end in mind, this project empowers students to rethink product design by repurposing technology and minimising waste, inspiring them to lead in creating smarter, greener solutions. It also engages students as both designers and consumers, cultivating curiosity around material sourcing and ethical consumerism and helping them to appreciate the full lifecycle and impact of the products they create and use.
From Teaspoons to Waves of Change
We’re thrilled with what we’ve accomplished so far and are even more excited for the future. A key part of the next phase of our programme is Abigail Knauf, our Junior School STEAM Coordinator. Abigail is working towards developing a cohesive, vertical STEAM-infused curriculum that connects Junior and Senior School. This initiative ensures that students experience a continuously evolving, interdisciplinary problem-solving curriculum throughout their entire journey at JIS.
This beginning-to-end curriculum speaks to our ultimate goal with STEAM, to lay the foundation for a generation of innovators, leaders and problem-solvers and to create students who aren’t just learning about the world, but actively working to improve it.
Because to us, STEAM is more than a programme; it’s a mindset. And as we look to the future, we know that this is just the beginning of a journey - one which leads from teaspoons to waves of change.
How can we better assess Global Citizenship?
Dr. Kristof Starost Curriculum Coordinator
Charter International School kstarost@charter.ac.th
Global citizenship is central to the mission and vision of every international school. It is a core component of the holistic education we provide, integrated into curricula, extracurricular activities, focused projects, and community engagement. The competencies tied to global citizenship arguably hold greater importance than much of what students traditionally learn. But how can we effectively assess these competencies to ensure students truly benefit from these experiences?
The Challenge
Assessing global citizenship is complex due to its abstract, subjective, and multifaceted nature. While tests like PISA, SABER, and SER attempt to evaluate these competencies, they often operate as standalone measures. Other methods, such as the International Baccalaureate’s CAS programme or subjectspecific surveys, embed assessment within broader curricula. However, we are working on an improvement in the evaluation of the impact of specific activities on students’ development in global citizenship competencies.
Project Approach
As educators, we are skilled at assessing progress and monitoring outcomes. To help make the implementation, this project adapts established and evidenced assessment principles to focus on global citizenship activities. The framework consists of five key stages:
An introduction to my project on the FOBISIA Fellow programme.
This structured approach offers a simple yet powerful tool for tracking and improving global citizenship competencies. For example, rubrics featuring “I can…” statements linked to specific activities can highlight student progress and provide insights into their development.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
One challenge has been that staff and students often lack a full understanding of what global citizenship entails. Is there one correct answer? However, consistent use of the term, along with practical examples, has already raised awareness and understanding. Embedding assessment into activities not only tracks progress but also reinforces the concept’s importance within the school community.
The Goal
Ultimately, the project seeks to provide clearer insights into students’ growth in global citizenship competencies, enabling us to refine how we deliver and promote these skills. By fostering better awareness and understanding, we aim to ensure that global citizenship becomes a measurable and impactful part of every student’s educational journey.
Acknowledgements
This framework has been developed with the support of the FOBISIA Fellowship Programme, alongside invaluable contributions from Mr. Neil Elrick (Charter International School), Mrs. Dinah Hawtree (Principal, Prince of Wales Island International School, Penang), and Mr. Paul Bannister (Jerudong International School, Brunei).
Read more of Kristof’s article, ‘ Reflections on the FOBISIA Leadership Conference as a FOBSIA Fellow ’, in the CPD Digest, Volume 7 Issue 1, Dec 2024.
OUR MEMBER SCHOOLS
BRUNEI
International School Brunei (ISB)
Jerudong International School Brunei (JIS)
Panaga School (PSB)
CAMBODIA
Northbridge International School Cambodia (NISC)
CHINA
Discovery Bay International School (DBIS)
Dulwich College Beijing (DCB)
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong (DCS)
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi (DCSPX)
Dulwich College Suzhou (DCSZ)
Harrow International School Beijing (HISC)
Harrow International School Shanghai (HISS)
Hiba Academy Hangzhou (HAH)
Kellett School Hong Kong (KSHK)
Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong (NAIS)
Shenzhen College of International Education (SCIE)
Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong (SHK)
The British International School Shanghai, Puxi (BISSPX)
The British School of Guangzhou (BSG)
Wellington College International Hangzhou (WCIH)
Wellington College International Shanghai (WCIS)
INDONESIA
British School Jakarta (BSJ)
INDIA
Canadian International School, Bangalore (CIS)
The British School New Delhi (TBSND)
JAPAN
The British School in Tokyo (BST)
KAZAKHSTAN
Haileybury Almaty (HBA)
Haileybury Astana (HAS)
LAOS
Panyathip International School, Laos (PIS)
MALAYSIA
Crescendo HELP International School (CHIS)
elc International School (elc)
Eaton International School (EIS)
Epsom College in Malaysia (ECiM)
Garden International School (GISKL)
HELP International School, Kuala Lumpur (HIS)
Kinabalu International School (KIS)
King Henry VIII College (KH8)
Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar (KTJ)
Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM)
Nexus International School (NISM)
Prince of Wales Island International School(Tanjung Bungah Campus) (POWIIS TB)
Prince of Wales Island International School, Penang (POWIIS)
Sri KDU International School (SKIS)
Sri KDU International School, Subang Jaya (SISJ)
St. Christopher’s International School, Penang (SCIS)
St. Joseph’s Institution International School (SJII)
Stonyhurst International School Penang (SHP)
Tenby Setia Eco Park (TSEP)
The Alice Smith School, Kuala Lumpur (KLASS)
The British International School of Kuala Lumpur (BSKL)
The International School@Park City (ISP)
The International School of Penang (Uplands) (ISPU)
XCL International School, Penang (BXCL)
MONGOLIA
The English School of Mongolia (ESM)
MYANMAR
Network International School (NIS)
The British School Yangon (BISY)
NEPAL
The British School Kathmandu (TBS)
PHILIPPINES
The British School Manila (BSM)
SINGAPORE
Brighton College (Singapore)
Dover Court International School (DCIS)
Dulwich College (Singapore) (DCSG)
Nexus International School (Singapore) (NISS)
North London Collegiate School (Singapore)(NLCS (Singapore))
Tanglin Trust School (TTS)
20 countries, 102 schools and growing
SOUTH KOREA
Dulwich College Seoul (DCSL)
North London Collegiate School Jeju (NLCS)
Seoul Foreign School (SFBS)
SRI LANKA
The British School in Colombo (BSC)
TAIWAN
Taipei European School (TES)
THAILAND
Amnuay Silpa School (ANS)
Aster International School Bangkok (AISB)
Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School (BPREP)
Bangkok Patana School (BPS)
Brighton College International School Bangkok (BCBK)
British International School Phuket (BISP)
Bromsgrove International School, Thailand (BIST)
Charter International School (CHA)
Denla British School (DBS)
Garden International School Eastern Seaboard (GISR)
Garden International School, Sathorn, Bangkok (GISBKK)
Harrow International School Bangkok (HISB)
Hua Hin International School (HHIS)
King’s College International School Bangkok (KINGS)
Lanna International School Thailand
RBIS International School (RBIS)
Regent’s International School Bangkok (REGB)
Regents International School Pattaya (RISP)
Rugby School Thailand (RST)
Shrewsbury International School, City Campus (SHC)
Shrewsbury International School, Bangkok Riverside (SHR)
Singapore International School Bangkok (SISB)
St Andrews International School Bangkok (StAB)
St. Andrews International School Green Valley (StAG)
St. Andrews International School Sukhumvit 107 (StA107)
St. Stephen’s International Schools Bangkok & Khao Yai Campuses (SIS)
Traill International School (TIS)
Wellington College International School Bangkok (WCISB)
UZBEKISTAN
The British School of Tashkent (TBST)
VIETNAM
British International School Hanoi (BISHN)
British International School Ho Chi Minh City (BISHM)
British Vietnamese International School Hanoi (BVISHN)
British Vietnamese International School HCMC (BVISHM)
Renaissance International School Saigon (RIS)
The ABC International School (ABCIS)
OUR AFFLIATE MEMBERS
Assessment & Curriculum Services
ABRSM
Alps
Cambridge
Century Tech
Complete P.E.
International Curriculum Association (ICA)
Jigsaw Education Group
Learning Resource Network
London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA)
OxfordAQA International Qualifications
Pearson
RSL Awards
Consultancy & Management Services
9ine
BDRC Asia
Being Luminary
Beyond Bridges Education
Breck Foundation
Consilium Education
Courageous Leadership
Encompass Safeguarding
International Child Protection Advisors
International Education Solutions (IES)
ISC Research
Karen Ardley Associates
Kym Scott Consultancy
Made to Measure Mentoring
Music+Movement
Online Safety 4 Schools
Opal Outdoor Play and Learning Cic
Pristine Privacy Consulting
Sports Management Worldwide
Suicide Care
TEEMS
The Alliance for Sustainable Schools (TASS)
The Safeguarding Alliance
The Stickman Consultancy
UK Study Options
Financial Services
LawtonAsia Insurance Brokers
One World Cover
Pacific Prime Thailand
The Tax Man UK
Vircle (Debit Circles Sdn Bhd)
Warwick Mann International Insurance Brokers
Inspectorates & Accreditation Services
Education Development Trust
Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)
Penta International
IT Services, Software & Systems
BlueSky Education
Classlist
Engage by Education Horizons
Faria Education Group
Finalsite
Firefly Learning Intellischool
iSAMS
Renaissance Learning, incorporating GL Education
Schoolbox
SchooliP by Derventio Education
Schools BI
SkoolSpot
SOCS
UBIQ Education
WCBS International
Widgit Software
10 categories, 150+ members...
Professional Development & Coaching
Best Practice Network
Beyond the Physical
Chartered College of Teaching
CLARITY Learning Suite Global
Connex Education Academy
Educational Success Partners (ESP)
EduSpark
Evidence Based Education
Future Action
GRJ Education
High Performance Learning
Making Stuff Better
Mind Your Health
Mr P ICT
National Institute of Teaching and Education (NITE)
Optimus Education
Persyou
Real Training
School Leaders Training
St. Mary's University
Tes Global
The National College
The University of Buckingham
University of Sunderland
University of Warwick, UK
Veema Education
Recruitment Services
Anthony Millard Consulting
Eteach
International Schools Services (ISS)
Limewing Talents UK
LSC Education
Probity Teaching
RSAcademics
Schrole Group
Search Associates
Teacher Horizons
TIC Recruitment
School Activities
8Adventures
DAIGON Esports
Edsidera
Esports Academy
iEXP 360
Inspiring Learning
Junior Duke Award
OrcaNation
Swim Life International
Teach Rex
The A Team Academy
Viristar
WildChina Company Limited
Xcursion Safety Services
School Suppliers
APD Book Services
BFX Furniture Australia
CES Holdings
Cezars Kitchen
Chamberlain Music
Collins
DK Learning
Drums for Schools
Dryad Education
EquipMySchool
Findel
Hussey Seating Company
London International
Theatrical Arts (LITA)
Mallory International
Pronin International
Raeco
Resero
S+B UK
SHF Services
Tsunami Sport
TTS Group
Teaching & Learning Resources
Across Cultures
BBC Studios
Charanga
Educake
Everybody Counts
FFT Education
FlashAcademy
Komodo Wellbeing
McKee Music
Millie
Music Teachers in International Schools
MusicFirst
OWN Academy
Oxford Tutors
Quizizz
SAM Learning
The Happy Confident Company
Toddle
Unifrog Education
Zoala
FOBISIA CONNECT
FOBISIA Connect is a valuable resource for FOBISIA Member School Staff allowing you to connect with others in a similar role within the community. Use this platform as a go-to place to share insights, experiences, and support with others. See the latest FOBISIA events as well as news and updates!
www.fobisia.org/cpd/fobisia-connect
FOBISIA WEBINARS
www.fobisia.org/cpd/webinars
FOBISIA offers a range of engaging webinars to its Members; recordings of past webinars are available on the FOBISIA website. Looking ahead we have an exciting lineup of webinars planned, covering diverse subjects and addressing emerging trends in education.
