As Nelson Mandela once said, education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. It is the key to creating a sustainable planet and the new currency by which nations maintain economic competitiveness and global prosperity. Through a well-rounded, comprehensive understanding of international education, we are preparing our students to live in harmony in a world that celebrates similarities, differences and individuality.
Today, our students have more opportunities than ever before. With the Internet at their fingertips, they have access to a world in which they can communicate with children from different countries, cultures and religions at the click of a button. At the British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park, we take advantage of the fact that, as a family of 42 schools, we have easy access to an international education through our Global Campus. This fantastic and unique part of our curriculum creates a bridge between cultural and linguistic diversities and allows our students to connect, discuss and learn, whilst developing a broad international perspective.
Global education must start with our youngest of students, to begin to build in their minds what the world is truly about. It isn’t simply logging online and emailing a child who lives in a different country; it is about languages, empathy, harmony, acceptance, listening and most importantly, understanding. International learning is certainly an avenue in our world that will empower our future generation to become true global citizens, thus leading to a brighter, more peaceful tomorrow.
Emma Scott is a Year 6 BISC-LP teacher, our Reports & Assessment subject leader, and an inspiring leader all around.