January School Support Officer update
It has been a really positive start to my second term with IBSCA, and I am so pleased with the level of openness and engagement from schools and colleges across the UK. As well I know, as an IB Coordinator and Head of Sixth Form myself, January is always an extremely demanding point in both the academic year and the IB calendar — with UK and international university admissions deadlines looming, alongside the handling of new applications to Year 12 and curriculum planning, all taking place against a backdrop of ongoing uncertainty. In this current climate, I have been particularly heartened by the number of members continuing to reach out for support and conversation.
On the back of discussions around marketing, I have begun work with the IB on the development of materials that are more clearly aligned with the UK education landscape. Alongside this, IBSCA is seeking to create complementary resources that are sensitive to different sector contexts, recognising the distinct challenges and priorities faced by both state and independent schools. This work links closely to recruitment, which remains a significant concern for many members. While there are some encouraging signs nationally, the pressures schools are navigating — particularly at post-16 — remain very real.
I have also been spending time supporting schools and colleges that are looking to grow their IB provision across the continuum, particularly through the introduction of MYP and IBCP. For a number of schools, this work is closely tied to longer-term recruitment and retention strategies, especially where strengthening pathways into the sixth form is a priority. Conversations around continuum growth continue to highlight the value of coherence and early engagement with IB approaches, and it has been fabulous to see schools thinking strategically in this space.
Within the programme communities, it has been a pleasure to support Becky Pickard in her role as IBCP Community Lead, particularly around CP core sessions, and to continue strengthening connections across the CP network. Planning is also well underway for the upcoming IBDP/CP Conference on March 4th, and MYP conference planning is in full swing. Both events promise to deliver full, relevant, and dynamic programmes, and I very much look forward to seeing you there.
As always, my work continues to centre on individual school support alongside these broader projects. If you would like to discuss marketing, recruitment, continuum development, or any other aspect of IB provision, please do get in touch. Your insights and experiences continue to shape this role and provide valuable opportunities for collaboration.
Leanne Gibbons
School Support Officer, IBSCA