Strengthening IB Schools Through Well-Being Initiatives

Leadership Development for Emotional Resilience

IB schools aim to cultivate visionary and reflective leaders. A structured emotional intelligence framework empowers educators to lead with clarity, mindfulness, and purpose, preventing burnout and disengagement. Leaders receive training in conflict resolution, self-awareness, and team-building strategies to foster positive, collaborative school cultures.

Embedding Well-Being in the IB Learner Profile

The IB Learner Profile encourages attributes such as balance, reflection, and principled action. By incorporating social-emotional well-being strategies, schools ensure that both students and teachers develop self-regulation, resilience, and interpersonal skills, reinforcing a culture of emotional intelligence alongside academic rigour.

Building Supportive School Communities

A thriving IB school relies on a positive, inclusive environment, yet many educators struggle with workplace challenges such as gossip, low self-esteem, and hierarchical pressure. Professional development initiatives provide structured mentorship, peer collaboration networks, and assertive communication strategies, ensuring educators feel confident, valued, and supported.

Project-Based Learning for Social & Emotional Well-Being

IB emphasises experiential learning through Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), and interdisciplinary inquiry. Well-being can be woven into these components, allowing students to engage in projects that promote self-reflection, emotional resilience, and ethical leadership, strengthening their mental and emotional adaptability for the future.

Global Competency & Intercultural Emotional Well-Being

IB’s global focus encourages intercultural understanding, but effective global citizenship also requires emotional intelligence. Educators gain exposure to international well-being practices through leadership retreats, fostering cross-cultural awareness and adaptive learning strategies that enhance student engagement worldwide.

Sustainable Well-Being Measurement & Continuous Growth

IB schools prioritise continuous reflection, making well-being assessments essential. Through structured teacher satisfaction scorecards, schools track educator engagement, burnout risks, and emotional health, ensuring targeted interventions that support both staff and student well-being. IB schools are able to support teacher well-being through professional development, reflective practices, and collaborative training.

Workshops cover conceptual teaching, assessment strategies, and workload management, helping educators refine their methods while maintaining balance. Mindfulness and self-reflectionpractices help prevent burnout by encouraging teachers to focus on their well-being.

Leadership programs and mentorshipstrengthen resilience, providing educators with peer support and career growth opportunities.

Collaborative planning sessions ensure teachers share best practices, while digital tools and IB resourceshelp streamline tasks, reduce stress, and improve efficiency.

These initiatives can create a positive, sustainable teaching environment, allowing educators to stay engaged while fostering meaningful student learning

Aligning IB Accreditation with Well-Being Strategies

Schools preparing for IB evaluation and accreditation benefit from structured well-being frameworks, ensuring emotional and professional growth align with international standards.

When a school values well being and actively tracks and measures this—through surveys, feedback, or structured programs—it can make informed improvements that benefit both teachers and students.

By prioritising emotional health and engagement, schools create a supportive environment where educators feel valued and students thrive academically and personally.

Over time, this leads to lasting success and fulfilment for everyone in the school community.

Conclusion: A Thriving School Culture Starts with Well-Being

IB education is designed to create lifelong learners, but to fully embody its mission, schools must integrate emotional intelligence, resilience, and a culture of belonginginto their framework.

By prioritising teacher well-being, student engagement, and leadership development, IB schools foster a dynamic, future-ready learning environment where everyone thrives—emotionally, socially, and academically.

Each form of intelligence plays a pivotal role in optimising the quality and impact of IB programs, fostering inclusive learning environments, and promoting global-mindedness among educators and all stakeholders involved. Here’s a comprehensive look at the importance and impact of these intelligence dimensions within the context of IB.

Strategic intelligence within the IB framework is pivotal in shaping the future of educational programs, promoting inclusivity, academic rigor, and global-mindedness, while fostering excellence in international education. Strategic intelligence encompasses environmental scanning, strategic planning, competitive analysis, risk assessment and mitigation, stakeholder engagement, and innovative leadership. It contributes to the sustainable growth and development of IB programs.

The ability to effectively and empathetically engage with others, build strong relationships, and cultivate positive connections within the IB community is essential. Relational intelligence emphasises collaboration, mutual understanding, and trust among students, educators, parents, administrators, and other stakeholders involved in IB programs. Relational intelligence enhances collaboration, communication, and interpersonal connections, leading to a more inclusive, supportive, and enriching educational environment for all stakeholders involved in the IB programs.

Pedagogical intelligence emphasises the comprehensive understanding and application of effective teaching and learning principles within IB programs. It ensures that educators can deliver high-quality, student-centered, and culturally responsive instruction that empowers students to become active, compassionate, lifelong learners. Pedagogical intelligence plays a pivotal role in creating inclusive, engaging, and rigorous learning environments for students.

Reflective intelligence encourages educators and leaders to engage in introspection, self-examination, and critical thinking to enhance their self-awareness and improve their practices. Reflective intelligence ensures that educational experiences align with the IB’s mission and philosophy, creating a culture of continuous improvement, learning, and innovation within the International Baccalaureate framework.

Entrepreneurial intelligence enables educators and leaders to drive innovation, foster creativity, and create a culture of continuous improvement and entrepreneurial spirit that empowers individuals to make a meaningful impact on education and society.

Heuristic intelligenceinvolves applying problem-solving techniques, strategies, and shortcuts to effectively navigate complex situations and educational challenges. By integrating heuristic intelligence into educational practices within the IB community, educators and leaders can promote adaptive learning, foster creative problem-solving skills, and optimize academic achievement for students while navigating the complexities of international education effectively.

In the dynamic landscape of leading IB schools, leadership intelligences serve as guiding stars.

Strategic acumen shapes curriculum decisions, while relational finesse fosters community bonds.

Cultural sensitivity bridges diverse perspectives, and entrepreneurial agility drives innovation.

Reflective self-awareness fuels growth, and pedagogical expertise ensures quality education.

Amidst pressure, heuristic decision-making prevails.

These intelligences, grounded in research and aligned with IB principles, empower leaders to navigate complexities, enrich student experiences, and shape educational futures.

The multifaceted role of IB leaders, their commitment to growth and adaptability remains pivotal to teaching and learning.

The University of Nicosia (UNIC) has held its rank among the top 501-600 universities globally for the third consecutive year, according to the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings (WUR).

Specifically, in the largest and most comprehensive world university rankings THE WUR, the University of Nicosia is joint #2 in Cyprus and Greece and among the Top 150 universities in the European Union. It also achieved #1 rank in Cyprus for Research Quality, where the THE WUR recognises it as the leading university in this area.

The THE World University Rankings evaluates and compares universities worldwide based on their performance in five areas: Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry, and International Outlook. Notably, this year’s ranking evaluated 2,092 universities worldwide, compared to 1,907 in 2024.

Commenting on this year’s ranking results, Professor Philippos Pouyioutas, Rector of the University, stated: “The University of Nicosia has developed, during the years, into a leading global institution. Building on its high-quality teaching and learning educational environment, it has evolved into one of the top research universities. It continues to hold alone the #1 position in Cyprus in Research Quality, the most important and most heavily weighted Performance Indicator of the THE WUR methodology. This indicator encompasses 4 sub-indicators: citation impact, research strength, research excellence and research influence. I would like to wholeheartedly thank, once more, the entire University community, including the teaching, research, and administrative personnel, as well as our students and alumni, who continue to propel us forward to ever greater milestones”.

Professor Dimitris Drikakis, Vice President for Global Partnerships and Executive Director of the University’s Research and Innovation Office, noted: “We are delighted to see our research efforts recognised on such a prestigious platform. The University’s research initiatives span various fields, from technology and health sciences to social sciences and humanities, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages interdisciplinary research and innovation. This ranking reflects the hard work and dedication of our faculty, researchers, students, and management, who are committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and contributing to the betterment of society”.

The results of this year’s THE World University Rankings enrich the series of distinctions for the University of Nicosia by the Times Higher Education organisation, as it is also ranked:

Top 601–800 universities in the world and second in Cyprus (along with another university in Cyprus) in the field of Clinical and Health (THE WUR by Subject 2024).

At #115 in the world, and at #1 in Cyprus and Greece in Research Quality in the list of the best universities in the world that are 50 years old or younger (2024 THE Young University Rankings),

Among the:

Top 201–250 universities in the world and first in Cyprus and Greece in the field of Business and Economics,

Top 201–250 universities in the world and first in Cyprus and Greece (with another university in Cyprus) in the field of Education,Top 301–400 universities in the world and first in Cyprus and Greece (with other universities) in the field of Psychology,

Top 501–600 universities in the world in the field of Social Sciences,

International Students – English Requirements

According to the Ministry of Education’s decision, all Overseas students must prove competency regarding the English Language in one of the following ways:

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): B1

• IGCSE: Minimum D
• IELTS: Minimum 5
• TOEFL IBT: Minimum 71
• Password Skills Plus Test: Minimum 5.5
• Anglia Examinations: Minimum Intermediate
• Michigan Language Assessment: Minimum ECCE 52

Cambridge GCE A Level: Minimum C

Cambridge IGCSE or GCSE English as a Second Language: Minimum D

Cambridge IGCSE or GCSE English as a First Language: Minimum E

SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): Minimum 530

University of Cambridge Exams: Minimum B2 First (FCE)

IB English B: Minimum Standard Level (SL)

IB English A: Minimum Literature SL & HL

Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum 58

Contact me now for a free consultation

We are delighted to introduce an additional service

Website Listing: We are now an official partner and are listed on “Our Partners” section of the British Council IELTS Partnership Programme.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) offers several benefits:

1. Global Recognition: IELTS is recognized by over 10,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, employers, and immigration authorities.
2. Accurate Assessment: It assesses all four language skills (listening, reading, writing, and speaking) to provide a comprehensive evaluation of your English proficiency.
3. Career Opportunities: A good IELTS score can enhance your job prospects, especially in multinational companies or organizations in English-speaking countries.
4. Educational Opportunities: Many universities require IELTS scores for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
5. Immigration and Visa: IELTS is often a requirement for visa applications in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
6. Improved Language Skills: Preparing for IELTS can help you improve your English language skills, making you more confident in using English for communication.

Overall, IELTS can open up a wealth of opportunities for study, work, and life abroad. Have you taken the IELTS, or are you planning to? If so, what are your goals?

Support and Resources: As a British Council IELTS Partner, we are committed to supporting you. We offer a range of free professional preparation materials and resources, including:

IELTS study material and resources for test takers:

·        IELTS Information for Candidates Booklet

·        IELTS Ready: Premium

·        IELTS Preparation Webinars and IELTS Study Pack

·        Online Course: Understanding IELTS

·        IELTS Practice Tests

·        IELTS on Computer Familiarization Test

·        Free IELTS Mobile Apps

IELTS resources for teachers:

·        Guide for Teachers Booklet

·        How IELTS is Assessed

·        Understanding and Explaining IELTS Scores

·        Lessons and Activity Plans

·        Webinars for Teachers

·        Teaching Resources

·        IELTS Teachers Newsletter

We are excited about this continued collaboration with the British Council and look forward to supporting your efforts in taking IELTS. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s make this a successful year together!

Written by Fiona Edwards Teacher Horizons

Top 10 reasons to apply for international teaching jobs in 2025

It is possible that you’ve stumbled onto this blog article as you are completely new to the world of international teaching – if so, welcome! Whether you’re a new teacher just starting out and eager to set off on a new adventure, or an experienced educator looking for a change after years in the classroom, you’re in the right place.

No matter where you find yourself on your teaching journey, teaching internationally provides a wealth of benefits. It’s not just a job, but the chance to change your life. As educators we are fortunate enough to have the option of living and working in so many different countries around the world, something which other jobs may not offer. The thought of moving to a new country can be daunting at first; it is difficult to leave behind a life where you feel comfortable. However, speaking from personal experience, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can refer to another country as ‘home’.

If you are hesitant about making the move and need some convincing, here is why you should consider teaching internationally in 2025!

1. A new culture to learn from

Starting over again in a new country can be quite challenging at first, but overcoming this challenge is what makes this experience all the more rewarding. Regardless of where you go in the world, you will find that people do things a little differently than what you are accustomed to. Teaching internationally pushes you to become more culturally aware and find comfort in things you might never have expected. This exposure also encourages you to appreciate local customs, traditions and the way other people see the world.

As an educator, you’ll also be able to connect with students from all kinds of backgrounds,  deepening your understanding of different cultures. The students will also love hearing your stories and about traditions from your home country; providing them with a truly international education.

2. Plenty of opportunities for professional development

International teaching jobs can provide you with learning opportunities that you might not have in your home country. International schools tend to offer staff a range of CPD sessions that will allow you to improve your teaching skills, focusing on strategies that may not be commonly used in your local school. These skills will not only help you become a better teacher, but will also help pave the way for future roles, whether they be in other international schools or in your home country.

If you decide to continue teaching internationally, you could even join a leading educational group like Inspired. This could give you the chance to transfer to one of their schools in another country or could even open doors to leadership opportunities further down the line.

Additionally, some international schools may even help fund teachers’ further education in order to help them grow; ensuring you are well equipped to become the best educator you can be.

3. A great excuse to travel

If you choose to teach abroad, you won’t be short of opportunities for travel. Teaching is a career that affords us the luxury to travel more often due to the school breaks (which we all know are well deserved!). Many teachers love living overseas as it means they can explore not just one new country, but can spend holidays, or even weekends, travelling to other destinations nearby. Travelling to these new places can be surprisingly affordable and you’ll find that your salary can go a long way.

4. Not just a competitive salary, but great benefits too

As I mentioned – your salary tends to stretch further whilst teaching abroad than it might do back home (of course this also depends on your spending). International schools are known to offer fantastic packages for teachers, consisting of competitive salaries which can even be tax-free in certain countries!

In addition to this, most of these packages will also offer significant perks like free or subsidised accommodation, free or discounted tuition for children, return flights, health insurance and paid holidays. All of these benefits can help you live comfortably and make the most out of your time overseas, without having to worry about finances. If you would like to find out more about salaries and benefits in different regions make sure to check out Teacher Horizons’ dedicated page.

5. A fantastic way to learn a new language

Along with immersing yourself in a new culture, moving to a new country also gives you the perfect opportunity to learn a new language. In smaller towns or rural areas, you’ll quickly pick up some of the basics in order to get by, while in bigger cities you may find that there is a larger English-speaking population and there might even be signage in English. Although the latter makes the transition much smoother, no feeling comes close to being able to communicate with locals in their language after trying your best to learn.

Living abroad and learning a new language is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Not only will it help give you a fulfilling experience, but it is also a valuable skill that could become useful later in your career or personal life.

6. Expand your network

Teaching internationally is a great way to meet other educators and expand your professional network. Teachers that have moved abroad often have more of a global mindset and are more likely to want to connect with others from different schools and countries. Many teachers move to new countries on their own, so you’ll also find plenty of events designed to help people connect.

International schools, particularly larger ones, tend to organise events for new staff to get to know each other, along with other social events throughout the year. There will also be opportunities to get involved in the local community and to attend international fairs and conferences should you wish. All of these connections could lead to future opportunities, whether they be in or out of the classroom.

7. Make life-long friends

Teaching overseas not only allows you to expand your professional network, but your circle of friends too. In your hometown you are likely to remain friends with the same people you’ve always known and your colleagues might only be people that you see at work. In an international setting, however, this changes slightly as you may find that you don’t know anyone. But you are not alone as many of your colleagues will also be in the same boat as you! This shared experience of being in a new place helps you connect quickly and build friendships as you support each other in settling in. These bonds can grow into life-long friendships, which will continue regardless of where you are in the world.

It is important to note that work isn’t the only place you will make friends. There are plenty of expat communities all over the world that will allow you to meet like-minded people. Once you’re settled in and start exploring hobbies or activities, such as sports, you’ll have even more opportunities to meet others too (both local and international).

8. Become more independent and resilient

Living overseas can sometimes feel like being thrown in at the deep end. You will have to handle unfamiliar situations and solve problems you may not have previously had. While things may not always go as planned, you will quickly learn to adapt and overcome these challenges. You will discover skills that you may not have known you had.

The living abroad experience is a truly enriching one which will push you to become a more resilient individual. It will also help you become more confident so that you are ready to take on whatever challenges come your way.

9. Become a global citizen

We all know that teachers help shape children’s futures and can have a huge impact on their lives. Teaching internationally can help you make even more of a difference by working with pupils who might have different educational backgrounds and may not have the same opportunities or resources as those back home. By helping these children, you can make a significant change in their lives and equip them for success.

Even if you teach at a well-funded school with excellent facilities, many international schools have a global perspective and focus on teaching students about current issues. This means that you could become a fantastic role model and help them become responsible, global citizens too.

10. Have a much better work-life balance

While this may be last on the list, don’t let it fool you. A good work-life balance is key to maintaining your mental health. Many educators opt for a life overseas as they don’t feel so consumed by their work. International schools will generally hire more specialist subject teachers, which means that a) teachers have more time for planning and preparation and b) they are not overloaded with work. Timetables vary across schools and countries, but international schools may offer shorter hours than what you are used to. Teachers usually find that they are able to leave work at a reasonable hour, rather than staying late every night. Holidays may also be slightly longer or more frequent than what you might get if you work locally, depending on the school and region.

Bonus point: Help your mental health

While this may be the outcome of all of the reasons put together, I believe it’s an important one to highlight on its own. Teaching internationally gives you the opportunity to make changes both in and outside of work that can significantly improve your mental health. If  there is something in your life that feels off or brings you down, consider making a change. This is not to say that all of your problems will magically go away, but making the move can really help you be happier and more excited by the small things in life.

Ready to browse international school jobs? 

So there you go! 10 reasons why you should think about teaching overseas. From competitive salaries and new cultures, to travel opportunities and a better work-life balance. If you are looking to make a change in 2025, you can start by having a look at Teacher Horizons’ current job openings. To browse opportunities, simply create a free profile!

As always, remember it is super important to research any school you may be thinking of applying to in order to make an informed decision before accepting a job offer

Fiona works for Teacher Horizons as their Community Growth Coordinator. Before joining the team, she worked as a Primary Class Teacher in Qatar following the completion of her PGCE. Alongside this, she also has experience working in childcare and as a TEFL Tutor for both children and adults. Fiona comes from an international background and, due to this, is passionate about travel and sharing her experiences with others around the world.

What is IELTS? All You Need to Know About IELTS

IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System – an English Language proficiency test. Globally, there are more than 4 million test takers a year, making IELTS the world’s most popular English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration.

IELTS is developed and run by the British Council in partnership with IDP Education and Cambridge Assessment English.

Download your copy of the Quick Guide to IELTS Success

How does IELTS work?

IELTS is aimed at people who want to study in an English-speaking environment, work in or emigrate to an English-speaking country, or get a job in your own country where English proficiency is required. For this reason, there are two IELTS tests to choose from:

Learn which IELTS test is right for you.

IELTS test format

You can choose to take your IELTS Academic or General Training test on paper or computer at an official test centre. You may also be able to take IELTS Online, depending on where you live. IELTS assesses the four key skills outlined below:

Key facts about IELTS Academic and General Training:

• Test length: 2 hours and 45 minutes long.
• Test format: 4 sections, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
• The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections take place on the same day with no breaks in between.
• The Speaking section may be scheduled on the same day or up to 7 days before or after the other sections.

Why should you choose IELTS?

IELTS focuses on real-world communication skills and offers a number of important benefits:

Access new opportunities

IELTS is trusted by 12,500 organisations in over 140 countries around the world, meaning you can study abroad at the institutions of your choice.

Learn about the organisations that recognise IELTS

Advance your career

Prove your English proficiency to future employers with secure and easy-to-understand results.

Learn about the IELTS Test Report Form

Work internationally

The Listening section of IELTS includes a range of accents and the Speaking section examines the English used by people from different parts of the world.

Learn more about the IELTS test format

Settle in an English-speaking country

IELTS helps you demonstrate to immigration authorities that your level of English meets the required standards.

Choose the test that suits you

Take the test on paper, on computer or online from the comfort of your home. With many testing dates available around the world, IELTS fits most schedules.

Be confident in your results

IELTS is a fair and accurate test. Examiners are qualified and experienced English language specialists who focus on language skills and practical communication ability.

IELTS is an accessible test

Modified versions of the test are provided to those who have special requirements on test day. These factors ensure fair testing for all, regardless of nationality, cultural background, gender or special needs.

Learn more about IELTS special arrangements.

How does IELTS help with visa requirements?

Immigration authorities in many English-speaking countries ask for proof of English language proficiency as a condition for being granted a visa. IELTS provides this proof.

1. After completing an IELTS test, you will receive an official Test Report Form (TRF) that contains your IELTS score.
2. Your TRF is valid for two years and should be submitted to visa authorities to prove your English proficiency.
3. Each visa has its own IELTS score requirements. It’s important that you confirm what score you need to secure your visa.

Visa requirements by country

The United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, the United States, and New Zealand have the following IELTS requirements:

The United Kingdom

If you want to move to the United Kingdom, the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has been approved for visa applications to the UK. You can take an IELTS for UKVI test in Academic or General Training.

IELTS for UKVI assessments must be taken at a testing centre that has been approved by the UK government. 

The IELTS for UKVI Life Skills test is available for those looking to secure a family visa, extension to family, spouse or partner visa, or a visa granting indefinite leave to remain or citizenship.

Learn more about IELTS for UK visas and immigration.

Canada

IELTS is accepted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada  (CIC) as proof of English language proficiency.

The Express Entry system  is the main pathway for skilled immigration and requires English or French language proficiency: If you are applying for a study permit, work visa, professional registration or permanent residence in Canada, you will probably be required to present your test result as part of your application.

Australia

For employers and the Australian immigration authority, IELTS is a preferred English language test. Student, immigration, and general skilled migration visas all require proof of English language proficiency.

The United States of America

Many visa categories in the USA require proof of English language ability. For instance, English proficiency is a requirement for a student visa.

Unlike countries like the UK or Australia, you do not need proof of English for some work visas – including H-1B and L1 visas. However, your IELTS score can improve the chances of your application being successful.

New Zealand

Proof of English ability is required for work, skilled migrant, and student visas. IELTS is recognised and respected throughout New Zealand and is often the preferred test of universities and employers.

How does IELTS compare to other popular tests?

Comparing different test scores can be difficult, but IELTS is widely recognised as setting the standard for English language testing. To understand the advantages the test offers, let’s compare IELTS with other popular assessments.

Who develops and runs IELTS?

IELTS is run by some of the most trusted organisations in English Education:

• The British Council – The UK’s international organisation for educational opportunity.
• IDP IELTS – A leading educational organisation with roots in Australia.
• Cambridge English – A part of the University of Cambridge that specialises in assessing English language proficiency.

As partners, we engage in regular research and work with organisations on an ongoing basis to ensure that all IELTS test takers are setting themselves up for success by choosing us.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) has announced a significant shift in its assessment practices, with plans to pilot digital exams for its prestigious Diploma Programme (DP) starting in the summer of 2026. This move aims to transition all DP exams to computer-based assessments by the 2030s, reflecting the increasing digitalisation of education and the workplace.

As an educator deeply invested in preparing students for the 21st century, I believe this transition is a crucial step forward. Today’s students are digital natives; they learn and interact with information primarily through technology. By embracing digital exams, the IB acknowledges this reality and aligns its assessments with the way students naturally learn and engage.

Over 60 schools with approximately 3,000 students will participate in the initial pilot, focusing on English Language and Literature, Spanish Language and Literature, and English B (standard level). The programme will gradually expand to include other languages in subsequent years.

Matt Glanville, IB Director of Assessment, emphasised the organisation’s desire to “embrace digital innovation within the education system” by aligning assessments with students’ contemporary learning and future professional realities. “They’re not going to spend three hours writing down an essay. They’re going to be interacting with computers in their day-to-day life,” he stated.

I am particularly excited about the potential for more innovative and engaging assessment methods. Digital platforms can offer a wider range of question types, allowing for more interactive assessments that better reflect real-world challenges and encourage deeper learning. For example, students could analyse video or audio clips, generate and utilise their own data in science experiments, and engage with more dynamic, interactive elements in subjects like chemistry.

The IB plans a gradual transition, acknowledging the significant shift for schools. “We’re trying to do it in a proportionate way – not a big bang,” Glanville explained. Initial digital exams will closely mirror the content of traditional paper-based exams to ensure comparability across student cohorts.

The IB conducted a survey of member schools to assess their readiness for digital exams. The results indicated that the vast majority possess the necessary infrastructure, while others are actively investing in it.
While concerns about infrastructure and internet reliability are valid, I believe that with careful planning and adequate support from the IB, these challenges can be effectively addressed. The IB will provide extensive support to teachers and students, including access to online practice exams through a public-facing portal. This will allow educators and students to familiarise themselves with the digital platform, its functionalities, and the exam experience.

Leaders in the IB community have generally welcomed this development. Tracey Trusler, Academies Director for the Leigh Academies Trust, expressed confidence in her organisation’s readiness, given its strong digital infrastructure and student familiarity with technology.
John Nicholls, Director of Education at Globeducate, emphasised the importance of the phased approach and the potential benefits of reduced logistical burdens and environmental impact.

Laura Hamilton, Assistant Head (IB Diploma) at Aiglon College, stressed the need for clear and timely communication from the IB to support schools in this transition.

I suggest that the IB prioritise teacher training and provide ongoing support to ensure that educators are comfortable and confident in administering and overseeing digital exams. This will be crucial for the successful implementation of this significant change.

The move towards digital exams for the IB Diploma Programme represents a significant step forward for international education. While challenges remain, the potential benefits, including enhanced student engagement, innovative assessment methods, and improved accessibility, make this a promising development for the future of IB education.

I encourage all stakeholders – schools, teachers, students, and parents – to actively participate in the pilot programme and provide feedback to the IB. This collaborative approach will be crucial for the successful implementation of digital exams and ensuring a positive experience for all involved.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the provided information and may not reflect all official IB policies or procedures.

In the vibrant educational landscape of Cyprus, private secondary schools stand out as beacons of excellence, each offering unique curriculums and environments tailored to foster student growth and success.

Click below for more information

http://cyprusprivateschools.com

Nicosia

In the bustling district of Lefkosia, the American International School in Cyprus (AISC) attracts students with its holistic American-style curriculum. Located at 11 Kassou, this school focuses on nurturing well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world. The fees for AISC range from €8,430 for primary school to €13,300 for high school. Meanwhile, the prestigious English School, known locally as Angliki Scholi, provides a rigorous British curriculum. Situated in P.O. Box 23575, this institution has earned a special status for its long-standing commitment to academic excellence.

For those inclined towards the Greek national curriculum, Lefkosia offers several top-tier options. Elliniki Scholi Olympion, found on 85, 25is Martiou in Palaiometocho, stands out with its dedicated approach to education. Similarly, Elliniki Scholi Paskal Lefkosias, nestled on 177 Kopenchagis in Lakatamia, provides a robust Greek curriculum that prepares students for the future. Adding a bilingual flavor to the mix, the Gallo-Kypriako Scholeio (Ecole Franco-Chypriote) in Aglantzia offers both French and Greek curriculums, fostering a multicultural learning environment. Further enriching the educational tapestry of Lefkosia are the Idiotiki Elliniki Scholi Forum in Nisou, the International School of Nicosia in Lakatamia, Kasa High School in Lefkosia, Kollegion Terra Santa in Akropoli, Pascal Private Secondary School Lefkosia in Lakatamia, Private School T.J.S. Senior School in Latsia, the American Academy Nicosia in Agios Andreas, the Falcon School in Strovolos, the Grammar School in Pano Deftera, and the G.C. School of Careers in Lefkosia. Each of these institutions offers a variety of curriculums in English and Greek, catering to a diverse student body.

Limassol

Venturing into the coastal city of Lemesos, the American Academy on Despoinas Pattichi road draws students with its comprehensive British-style education. The city is also home to Elliniki Scholi Paskal Lemesou on Omirou street, which mirrors its Lefkosia counterpart with a British and Greek Greek curriculum. For those seeking a British education, Foleys School on Nikis Avenue is a top choice, renowned for its structured and thorough academic programs. Lemesos also boasts a variety of other notable institutions including Idiotiki Elliniki Amerikaniki Scholi Lemesou, IMS Private School, Lebanese Green Hill Private School, Logos School of English Education, Morfosis Private School, Pascal Private Secondary School Lemesos, SP Triada Private School, Silverline Private School, St Mary’s School, the Heritage Private School, the Pupils of Pythagoras, the Grammar School (Limassol), and the Island Private School of Limassol. These schools offer a range of curriculums including American, British, Russian, Arabic, Greek, and even multilingual programs, accommodating a wide array of educational needs.

Larnaca

In the historic city of Larnaka, the Amerikaniki Akadimia Larnakas on Leoforos Grigori Afxentiou offers an American curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects. Med High on Kilkis street stands out with its extensive British curriculum, providing students with a solid academic foundation and a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. Pascal Private Secondary School Larnaka in Aradippou also plays a significant role in this district with its emphasis on English-language instruction.

Pafos

Pafos, with its scenic landscapes, hosts the Private British School Aspire on Tafoi ton Vasileon Avenue. This school offers a British curriculum focusing on both academic and extracurricular development, ensuring students receive a balanced education. Other notable schools in Pafos include Private School Lumio in Acheleia and the Learning Centre Peyia in Pegeia, both offering diverse curriculums in English.

Ammochostos

Lastly, in the tranquil district of Ammohostos, Xenion High School on 1st April Avenue in Paralimni stands as a unique institution combining Greek and British educational frameworks. This blend ensures that students receive a rich and diverse educational experience.

Cyprus’ private secondary schools offer a wide array of curriculums and languages of instruction, catering to the diverse needs of students and parents. Each school prides itself on delivering quality education, making them popular choices for those seeking the best for their children’s future. The fees for these schools vary, providing options for different budgets and preferences. For those seeking an International Baccalaureate (IB) education, notable mentions include The Island Private School of Limassol, which combines IB and Waldorf curriculums, with fees ranging from €8,820 to €17,150.

Advice: Choosing the Best School in Cyprus

Choosing the right school for your child depends on multiple factors, including language proficiency, long-term educational goals, financial capacity, and plans for residence.

• Families Living Temporarily in Cyprus: For those planning to stay short-term, a school offering education in the child’s native language (e.g., Russian schools) can ensure continuity and ease transitions back home.
• Teenagers Close to Graduation: Older students with only 1-2 years left should prioritise minimal disruption, focusing on schools aligned with their existing curriculum or future goals (e.g., Russian schools for returning to Russia or British schools for studying abroad).
• Families Settling Permanently in Cyprus: Public or private Greek schools facilitate integration into local culture and society. For children fluent in English or aiming for global opportunities, British schools are an excellent alternative.
• Studying Abroad: British schools in Cyprus offer internationally recognised qualifications (GCSEs, A-levels), paving the way for admission to universities worldwide. While more expensive, they are an investment in global career opportunities.

Ultimately, the best school for your child in Cyprus depends on their unique needs and your family’s goals. Balancing education quality, adaptability, and long-term objectives will help you make the right decision.

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