The single International Baccalaureate (IB) institution in the northern region of Scotland, known as ISA, is dedicated to fostering a global perspective among its students to equip them for success in an ever-evolving society. But what exactly does this entail, and why is the cultivation of global citizens deemed so significant?
- ### Partnership Content
Some of the content featured on the Press and Journal online platform is sponsored by external entities. The proceeds from these collaborations contribute to sustaining our independent journalistic endeavors. Any sponsored material is distinctly labeled as “Partnership” both on the website and across social media channels.
This sponsorship can manifest in two distinct forms:
“Presented by”
This signifies that the content has been commissioned and developed by the specified advertiser.
“In partnership with”
This indicates that the content has been sponsored and endorsed by the identified advertiser, yet it has been authored and edited by our in-house commercial content team.
A global citizen can be described as ‘an individual who possesses an awareness of and comprehension about the broader world and their role within it.’
As the exclusive international educational institution in the locality, ISA is strategically positioned to deliver the type of learning experience essential for nurturing self-assured global citizens capable of thriving in a rapidly changing global landscape.
In order to excel in an increasingly intricate world, children must not only acquire a diverse set of academic competencies but also develop social and emotional intelligence.
The Significance of an International School
ISA stands out as the sole International Baccalaureate school in the northern part of Scotland.
Since its inception as Scotland’s inaugural international school in 1972, ISA has embraced a global perspective in educating its students.
It epitomizes the essence of an international school as a portal to the wider world while upholding a sense of pride in its local origins in the northeast region. ISA boasts a truly multicultural school community, with half of its 530 students hailing from the UK and the other half representing 45 different nations.
Moreover, ISA holds the distinction of being the sole IB school in the northern region of Scotland, enabling senior students (Grades 11 and 12) to pursue the , which is the fastest-growing globally recognized qualification highly esteemed by university admissions officers.
The school community achieved a perfect score in the 2023 examinations, with students attaining a 100% IB pass rate.
Additional Initiatives by ISA to Foster a Global Mindset
At ISA, students engage in exploring both local and global issues through interactive learning experiences with their peers.
While the IB qualification is significant, the educational approach at ISA extends beyond it. For instance, starting from middle school, students collaborate with an advisor weekly on citizenship-related topics. In Grades 9 and 10, they delve into Global Perspectives, studying the history, geography, and cultures of various countries worldwide.
This thematic continuity persists into high school, where students delve into a diverse array of subjects to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the global landscape.
Embracing Diversity in Aberdeen
Recent studies have revealed that IB Diploma students exhibit heightened levels of global awareness compared to their peers.
This mindset is nurtured right within the school’s vicinity, with students being visually reminded daily by the array of national flags adorning the campus entrance and through the numerous events celebrating diversity and inclusivity.
Further Examples of Global Citizenship Initiatives at ISA
- Students engage in exploring local and global issues through interactive learning experiences with peers.
- and find their place in it.
- A creative and adaptable educational approach inspires children to explore novel working methods.
- The student voice is paramount – children are assured that they will be heard and respected.
- ISA students exemplify compassion, displaying acceptance towards individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Collaborative skills are fostered through lessons that stimulate dialogue, deliberation, and interaction with the broader world.
A Gateway to Global Opportunities
Contemporary parents recognize that the current global economic landscape opens doors for their children to pursue careers across diverse international settings.
Nick Little, the head of school at ISA, emphasizes, “Scotland is inherently open to global interactions, and Aberdeen has historically served as a global industrial hub.”
He further adds, “An international education equips students with a broader perspective. While it is crucial to grasp the nuances of Scotland and the UK, it is increasingly vital for young individuals to familiarize themselves with the myriad cultures that shape the global landscape in various spheres of life and business.”
“At ISA, we instill in our students the initiative to adopt a proactive mindset, preparing them for a dynamic and evolving world. Our students evolve into tech-savvy, culturally aware, self-assured individuals hungry for knowledge – attributes they can leverage in real-world scenarios.”
Tailoring the Path for Each Student’s Journey
ISA upholds a personalized approach towards each student.
In a nurturing and secure setting, every child is encouraged to progress and enhance their strengths, with no student left behind. ISA takes pride in students who achieve top scores in the IB Diploma and progress to university, as well as those who opt for alternative pathways.
In the contemporary educational and professional landscape, a global outlook is not merely an added advantage but a fundamental skill sought after by universities and employers alike.
With a foundation of respect and community at its core, ISA welcomes children ranging from three to 18 years old, offering them the opportunity to learn within an internationally diverse environment. Each student is provided with the necessary support to prepare them for success in a globally interconnected world.
Discover more about how ISA prepares all students for the post-education world.