DIRK VAN BRUGGEN PARTNERSHIPS

Biography

Dirk van Bruggen is a recognised, experienced educator with over 42 years in education. The last 36 years have been in Executive positions. His formal qualifications include a Bachelor of Science (major in Nuclear physics), Information Technology Diploma, and Bachelor of Education, as well as being an Accredited Australian Company Director.

Dirk has been a Deputy Head of College in three leading schools where he has led the curriculum, technology, financial, and community to be innovative and achieve excellence in all they do. His current role as Deputy Head of College at Hillcrest sees him responsible for International Student Relationships, Technology Services, Marketing and Business Operations. Dirk has presented at Microsoft education, Principal, and Director conferences over the last 16 years. Dirk is currently focused on building national and international connections to foster a global outlook on education, whilst using technology to improve learning. Dirk’s passion is to lead communities and challenge educators to be innovative, and seek to grow the best learning environment for students.

'BUILDING CONNECTIONS' SYNOPSIS

Building global relationships with students from other countries and cultures is incredibly important for today's students. In our increasingly interconnected world, it is essential that we understand and appreciate the diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences of people from around the globe.

It is for this reason that Hillcrest Christian College in Queensland, Australia is seeking to forge a strong connection with Jeollanamdo in Korea. We are seeking to connect minds, build bonds, and foster global relationship.

This session will focus on the first stage of building our partnership, which is two schools in Jeollanamdo partnering with Hillcrest to undertake a virtual learning journey to strengthen their literacy skills and understand each other’s culture. This partnership will also involve a cultural journey to Australia that will provide the opportunity for an immersion program in English as well as a hands-on Australian cultural experience. This presentation will outline how the programs will work, and how innovative use of technology can make the student experience engaging, fun and focused on learning.