November Newsletter

Welcome to our November Edition!

We are thrilled to bring you this issue packed with resources, insights, and events tailored for passionate IB educators like you. We hope these updates will help enrich your teaching journey and strengthen our community.


In this issue you will find:


  • Our Monthly topic
  • Featured Resource
  • Introducing the Vibrant Webinar Series
  • NEW! - Online professional Development Courses
  • What's coming Next?


Let's get started!


Our Monthly Topic: “Approaches to Learning”


This month, we are diving into one of the pillars of IB Philosophy: Approaches to Learning (or ATLs). These core skills empower students to become independent learners and reflective thinkers, essential in their journey through the IB program.


ATLs are integral to the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, helping students develop essential skills that extend beyond content knowledge. Focused on five key areas—thinking, communication, social, self-management, and research—ATLs empower students to become independent, reflective learners equipped for lifelong success.


For new IB teachers, embedding ATLs into daily lessons means creating opportunities for students to practice and refine these skills actively. From collaborative projects to reflective journaling, incorporating ATLs not only enriches learning experiences but also builds a classroom culture that values inquiry, growth, and resilience—hallmarks of an IB education.

It is important to note that ATLs are not just a ‘nice to have’ option but a key part of our responsibilities as IB educators, which include


  • Integrate ATLs in Lessons: Teachers should plan lessons that actively incorporate ATL skills and connect them with subject content.
  • Model ATL Skills: Teachers are encouraged to demonstrate and reinforce these skills in their interactions and teaching practices.
  • Create Opportunities for Practice: Design activities and assessments that allow students to practice and develop ATL skills within the context of their learning.
  • Encourage Reflection: Guide students in self-assessment and reflection on their use and progress in ATL skills.
  • Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to help students improve and understand the importance of each ATL skill area in their personal and academic growth


Actions & Reactions:


This section is designed to help you reflect on the practicalities and implications of a successful implementation of ATLs in a school context.

For Teachers


  • What strategies can help you balance teaching subject content with nurturing students' ATL skills?
  • How do you assess student progress in ATL skills, e.g. critical thinking or research skills?
  • What areas of professional development would support you in fully understanding and implementing ATLs?



For Senior Leaders


  • What steps can you take to develop a cohesive, school-wide strategy for ATL integration that aligns with your school’s goals and the IB framework?
  • What tools or methods could help you monitor and evaluate the impact of ATL implementation on student learning?
  • How might you encourage a shift towards a skills-based learning culture? What challenges might arise, and how can they be addressed?

Do share your views with your colleagues and if you are interested in exploring this topic further, come along to the next FREE Vibrant webinar which will focus on ATLs as a Toolkit for Life. (see below)

FEATURED RESOURCE - FREE DOWNLOAD

Our featured resource this month is the ATLs IBGraphic*. Click on the icon to download it for free (for a limited time only).


Designed to simplify complex concepts, IBGraphics* are visual summaries aiming to bring IB principles to life in a clear, engaging, and stimulating way.



NEW! : Online professional Development Courses

Looking to deepen your knowledge of concepts and teaching methodologies required to teach the IB? Explore our online professional development courses designed to help you master core IB principles.

Course title: "Preparing for IB Teaching"


Who is it for: This course designed for educational professionals new to the IB or preparing to teach in an IB school in the near future.


Structure: The course is divided into six focused modules and delivered sequentially, allowing you to build your knowledge and skills as you progress. Each module includes clear learning objectives, interactive elements, and practical exercises to help you connect the theory to your own context


Methodology & Delivery: The course is delivered online in a self-paced format, allowing you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Each module combines video lectures, interactive content, and downloadable resources, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Our teaching methodology emphasizes real-life application, encouraging you to reflect on how each concept fits into your teaching practice. Courses are delivered weekly, on a Friday, via a shared link which allows access to the learning platform.


Resources: To enhance your learning journey, the course provides a rich selection of downloadable resources, including:

  • Slides used in the lectures
  • Infographic
  • Worksheets, templates
  • List of references
  • A supportive community forum for discussion and sharing best practices

Click on the image above to enroll now and take advantage of our limited-time special offer! This is an ideal opportunity to access high-quality, professional development training at a significantly reduced price. Take the next step in your teaching journey and empower yourself to make a meaningful impact in your IB context.

What’s Coming Next?

We are excited to invite you to our next professional development webinar, "Exploring Approaches to Learning (ATLs) for New IB Teachers," specially designed to support educators who are new to the IB program.


UPCOMING FREE WEBINAR -

“Exploring Approaches to Learning: A toolkit for Life"


Webinar Details:
🗓 Date: Wednesday 27th November
🕒 Time: 13:00 London GMT
📍 Location: Online (Zoom link provided upon registration, 2 hours before the session)


In this interactive session, we will explore the core concepts of Approaches to Learning (ATLs), an essential toolkit that will empower students to become independent, life-long learners. This webinar will provide you with:


  • A clear understanding of ATLs and their importance in the IB framework
  • Practical strategies to incorporate ATLs into your different areas of teaching
  • Real-life examples and activities to engage students and develop key learning skills
  • A chance to connect and share ideas with fellow educators


Whether you are just starting with the IB or seeking to strengthen your understanding of ATLs, this session offers valuable insights and tools to help you create a student-centered, skills-driven classroom. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with the link to join the webinar. We look forward to supporting your journey in IB education and helping you make the most of ATLs in your classroom.



Mestralia Education Services Ltd

Reg. No. 15544219

STC House, 7 Elmfield Road

Bromley BR1 1LT


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Contact: mestralia.info@gmail.com

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