Adrian Harrison, Acting Director of Academics

IB Global Conference 2025 – “Our Humanity, Connected.”

One of the benefits in being an IB continuum school is that we belong to a community that extends beyond our immediate geographic surrounds. Global mindedness is one of the fundamental tenants of an IB education, and one that we hold dear at Cranbrook. In times of uncertainty and discord the need to find shared common ground, to connect with humanity is of even greater importance. As members of the IB community we were invited to this year’s conference which took place in Singapore. Mr Nick Hanrahan (Head of IB Continuum) and Ms Erin Munn (MYP Coordinator) were joined by Ms Genet Erickson Adams (JS Deputy Head – Curriculum & PYP Coordinator) for this event. They heard from a range of speakers including Mr Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the IB,  Andreas Schleicher the Director for Education and Skills at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). They also participated in workshops covering topics such as thriving in the Diploma, the importance of engaging in service learning.

The benefits for our students in being part of this community extend beyond the skills developed and opportunities provided. The capacity to both reflect upon their own learning as well being able to explore global issues and look outwards prepares them for life beyond the school gates. We are looking forward to continuing to integrate these findings and developments into our teaching and learning practices here at Cranbrook.

Adrian Harrison
Acting Director of Academics