School hosts international IB workshops

Over 130 teachers from 33 different countries attended workshops for the International Baccalaureate programme held at King Edward's School, Birmingham.

The workshops, which took place on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 June, received teachers from countries as far apart as China, Uganda, Columbia and the Isle of Wight. Training was provided to both teachers new to the International Baccalaureate (IB) and experienced IB educators.

The IB Diploma comprises six subjects within which pupils must study English, Mathematics, a science, a language and a humanities subject. Pupils also complete an extended essay on any subject and undertake a range of extra-curricular activity and community service. In September 2010, King Edward's School replaced A-levels with the International Baccalaureate Diploma for its Sixth Form.

Deputy Head and IB Co-ordinator, John Fern, said: "At King Edward's we believe that the IB provides a better, more rounded, education as well as being excellent preparation for university and working life.

"As an IB World School, it is fantastic to play host to these IBICUS workshops and welcome visitors from so many different countries to the school and to Birmingham. It is interesting for teachers to be trained alongside those from other countries and the sharing of knowledge internationally provides a fresh perspective."

The IB was created in 1968 as an attempt to bring together the best elements of the British and European educational systems. It is now taught in 3,422 schools in 141 countries, and over 200 in the UK.