At BISP, we continuously invest in our staff’s professional development to ensure they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide an outstanding learning environment for our students. The recent INSET Day was a testament to this commitment, featuring an array of focused training sessions aimed at enhancing teaching methods, leadership, safety skills, and technology use. Here’s a look at the various initiatives that took place.

Toddle Training: Enhancing Learning Management and Communication

During the INSET Day, Secondary School staff engaged in a valuable CPD session dedicated to Toddle, the Learning Management System (LMS) used in the Secondary School. Toddle supports teachers through every step of the teaching and learning process, from collaborative planning and lesson design to real-time student progress tracking and assessments. This tool enables teachers to gain valuable insights into each student’s development, allowing for more personalised support and ensuring every student’s needs are met.

The training not only deepened staff understanding of Toddle’s features but also highlighted its potential to streamline planning and improve communication between teachers, students, and parents. As we continue to refine our use of Toddle, we aim to ensure a smooth learning transition from Primary to Secondary, giving parents clearer updates on their child’s progress and more insight into personalised learning pathways.

Building Stronger Relationships Through Coach-Like Leadership

A select group of Primary and Secondary leaders participated in a two-day programme on coach-like leadership. This training was facilitated by Kathryn Hemming from Making Stuff Better, alongside BISP Nursery teacher Katie Honey. Inspired by Michael Bungay Stanier’s approach to professional relationships, the programme focused on building trust, strengthening working relationships, and empowering colleagues through coach-like leadership.

I thought it was brilliant! It was great that our school invested in this for us as a team. Two days of professional development that was meaningful and well needed. – Head of Year 2, Rebecca Krijewski

Participants learned essential skills such as active listening, being present, and asking thoughtful questions. This approach fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and respect, which ultimately enriches the learning environment for students. We are excited to see how these new skills will enhance teamwork and leadership across the school.

Enquiry Learning Training: Inspiring Curiosity and Active Learning

Jo Cullen, a specialist in enquiry-led learning who returned to BISP this year, conducted her third workshop with Primary and Thai teachers. Jo’s workshops focus on developing an Enquiry Approach, which encourages students to actively participate in their learning by exploring, questioning, and sharing ideas. Rather than simply providing answers, teachers act as facilitators, guiding students as they build knowledge through exploration, discussion, and play.

Enquiry-led learning focuses on the student’s role in the learning process. Students are encouraged to think for themselves, explore resources and materials, ask questions, and share ideas. – Jo Cullen

The positive reception from teachers has been inspiring, as Jo notes, “I have been very impressed by how passionate and open-minded BISP teachers are. They see the value of an Enquiry approach and how it motivates and inspires our students.” Later in the year, Jo will host a Parents Workshop to further explain the Enquiry Approach and its benefits for student learning.

First Aid Training: Equipping Staff with Life-Saving Skills

Safety is paramount at BISP, and as part of INSET Day, staff participated in essential first aid courses conducted by Bangkok Hospital and Rumblefish. These sessions covered vital life-saving skills, ensuring our staff are prepared to handle emergencies with confidence.

In addition to general first aid, PE staff participated in a specialised lifeguard course led by Rumblefish, focusing on water safety and emergency response techniques. This training is especially important for our aquatic activities, providing PE staff with the skills to keep students safe in and around the water.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Bangkok Hospital and Rumblefish for their expertise and support. A big congratulations and well done to all the teachers who participated! Your commitment to safety and well-being helps make our school a safer place for everyone.

A Day Dedicated to Growth and Excellence

INSET Day at BISP was a day of growth, collaboration, and skill-building, reflecting our commitment to continuous improvement. From Toddle training and enquiry-based learning workshops to coach-like leadership and first aid training, each session equipped our staff with valuable tools to enhance student learning and ensure a supportive, safe environment. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these developments will have on our school community.