Introducing the DP Coordinator Community
During the pandemic, the smaller groups of PYP, MYP and CP coordinators started working with IB consultants online, to offer peer-to-peer support, coordination experience and advice to each other. IBSCA and the IB recognise the value of such networks and have not only formalised the role of those consultants as Programme Leads, but that Diploma Programme Coordinators among IBSCA members would benefit from the same opportunity. This is how the idea of a Diploma Programme Community was borne, and I am delighted to have been appointed as DP Programme Lead.
HOW CAN YOU BE INVOLVED?
With more than 100 DP coordinators in the UK and even more within IBSCA, we are hoping to establish engaging and practical ways to become part of a group of coordinators who are willing to share best practice and ideas, but can also access support when they need it. We recognise that your roles vary from school to school, sector to sector and cohort size – and that is why we hope that you would like to contribute to discussions, helping everyone within the network.
Simone Lorenz-Weir, DP Community Lead
Please get in touch with me to let me know what you do well, what concerns you and what you would like to share in one of the network sessions. The more quickly I can get to know you as coordinators, the quicker the network can develop.
WHAT IS ON OFFER?
Individual support: If you would like to talk to me about a particular aspect of DP coordination, please do get in touch. I can then offer support or put you in touch with other coordinators, who might be able to help you.
How to DP videos: We have started work on a series of ‘How to DP’ videos, aimed at newer coordinators, with practical advice on DP coordination. The videos will be published on Learnium, in the DP Coordinator resources section.
DP Community Network meetings: These live Zoom meetings are dedicated to discussion and sharing of best practice on aspects of DP coordination. They are taking place on Learnium and can be accessed via the ‘Zoom Live Sessions’ button. Some sessions will be aimed at coordinators new to the role, but some will also offer discussion topics for very experienced coordinators.
Drop-in meetings: Also accessible via the ‘Zoom Live Sessions’ button in Learnium, these meetings offer an opportunity to have your questions answered or to follow up on points raised during the DP Community Network meetings.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
January 2023
26 January, 16:00 - DP Community Meeting: How do I plan an effective and supportive Extended Essay programme for students and supervisors?
31 January, 16:00 - 16:30 - Drop-in meeting
February 2023
23 February, 16:00 - DP/CP Community Meeting: What do DP/CP coordinators need to do when it comes to exam admin?
28 February, 16:00 - 16:30 - Drop-in meeting
March 2023
16 March, 16:00 - DP/CP Community Meeting: What do I do with authorisation/evaluation feedback? Next steps.
21 March, 16:00 - 16:30 - Drop-in meeting
April 2023
27 April, 16:00 - DP Community Meeting: How do I set up an effective deadline calendar to support IB students’ wellbeing?
May 2023
25 May, 16:00 - DP Community Meeting: How do I plan an induction programme for new DP students and new staff?
16 May, 16:00 - 16:30 - Drop-in meeting
June 2023
22 June 2023, 16:00 - DP/CP Community Meeting: How do I prepare for results day and what do I do with the results when I get them?
27 June 2023, 16:00 - 16:30 - Drop-in meeting
To contact Simone with your ideas or to learn how to join the DP Coordinator Community, please email ibsca@oxfordcoursemanagers.org.