From the Principal 11.11.2023

What does it mean to be a ‘global citizen’?

This is a question that I think about a lot. We have these two words ‘global citizens’ at the heart of our mission and vision and they are words we use here at KIS frequently.

While the answer may seem obvious it can be hard to succinctly summarise and distill down.

Perhaps the best way of answering the question is not to come up with a definition of what a ‘global citizen’ is but rather consider what a ‘global citizen’ does.

What ‘global citizens’ do is navigate with confidence the complexity of the world around them and seamlessly shift between experiences and exchanges with people of different backgrounds, faiths, opinions and ideologies. They are comfortable with uncertainty and when faced with challenges respond with bravery.

Being a ‘global citizen’ is about much more than simply knowing things about other cultures. Global citizenship is more than just transactional exchanges.

This week at KIS was incredibly busy with off-site field trips for Year 3, International Day, Pink Ribbon Day, Deepavali talks, a Remembrance Day assembly and IGCSE Drama performances. All this following Enterprise Fortnight, KIS Arts Week and the countless hours of lessons taking place every day.

These additional experiences that take place in concert with regular daily lessons provide students the opportunity to develop their global citizenship and practice what ‘global citizens’ do. When students are afforded the platform to engage with difference, to challenge their thinking and the thinking of others, to not only learn about other cultures and their ways of doing things, but also meaningfully interact with them, they really grow.

Though the past few weeks have been very busy, packed full of events and quite intense, the value our students gain is enormous.

KIS may be a small school however the experiences and opportunities to develop global citizenship are huge, and it is one of the greatest strengths of our wonderful community.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has been a part of the incredible events and activities listed above. Parents, the PTA-Steering Committee, teachers, students and extended KIS family, thank you! The home-school partnership that sits at the heart of the KIS experience is integral to ensuring we are not just teaching about global difference, but educating and supporting our students to do what ‘global citizens’ do.

Thank you and please enjoy a well-earned three day break.