One of the most important challenges facing parents anywhere in the world is how to find the best school for their child. Though they may be separated by thousands of mile parents from Beijing to Birmingham, from Cambridge to Chengdu are united in the knowledge that education can 'make or break' their child's future. The process of choosing the right school can be stressful and agonising. I should know, I have gone through this process with my own children who are now fortunately happy and successful in one of the top 25 state schools in the UK. Fortunately as a Headteacher who has been a school leader for more than nine years, I have some insights into what makes a great school. Insights I would like to share with you in this blog. Confucius has taught us the six arts of education.
1. Rites (禮)
2. Music (樂)
3. Archery (射)
4. Charioteering (禦)
5. Calligraphy (書)
6. Mathematics (數)
In this blog I will update his teaching by explaining the six qualities of excellent international education.
1. International Leadership: Of course you will meet the school leader on your visit to the school. Listen to her or him carefully. Don't be afraid to ask questions. You need to know what motivates this school leader. Is it business or learning? A good leader who is motivated by learning will always try to employ teachers who share the same ideal of learning.
2. International Philosophy : Does the school have a philosophy or just a clever logo, probably in Latin? Can the leader explain the values of the school in clear, straightforward language that is understandable by everyone, especially your child. The philosophy of a great school will be child-centred. It must be able to explain precisely how it will open your child's mind to the values of international learning.
3. International Curriculum: Of course the school will have international subjects such as iGCSE, A Levels or the IB, but in an excellent school the curriculum will offer far more. It will be built around the core skills of problem-solving, creativity and independent learning that are essential to your child's future success.
4. International Ethos: Your child is on a spiritual, moral and cultural journey to an international future. You need a school that is a strong reliable bridge to guide her or him. One side of this bridge must be firmly built on the foundations of traditional Chinese culture. The other side must be built equally strongly on the foundations of international wisdom. For me the strongest foundations are to be found in the British education system.
5. International Partnerships: As much as possible you want your child to be fully immersed in an international environment. To offer this, a great school will need strong partnerships with international organisations. Apart from the teachers, will your child have the chance to meet andconverse with other native English speakers? A great international school will have a partnership with highly reputable educational institutions who can offer outstanding opportunities for your child to study abroad.
6. International Culture : To be a successful international student and citizen far more is needed than just the knowledge and skills to pass examinations. How will the school help your child to develop the sensitivity, awareness and etiquette of a world citizen. Meet the teachers who will be moulding your child's mind for the next few vital years. Are they the sort of cultured, sophisticated international citizen you want your child to become?
I hope this blog has helped you in your quest for your child's international future. For more information and advice please contact me at chris.nash@britishfortune.org.
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