Global Citizenship in Action

Bryan Nixon

Bryan Nixon

In this blog series, we decided to reach out to our teachers to help us explore the concept of “Global Citizenship”.

Through the perspectives and examples shared you will enjoy the richness of the experiences provided for each and every Whitby student throughout our learning continuum.

Our mission statement challenges us all to empower each child to take responsibility as an open-minded, principled citizen in a global community. As I read each example, I must confess to feeling a sense of pride at the insight and challenge my colleagues present to each child. Our children will be the leaders of the future. 

The perspectives and understandings, gained from multiple learning engagements at Whitby, will form the basis for their questioning, their interactions, their adaptability and their willingness to perceive complex situations and challenges from multiple perspectives.

The ability to be open-minded, reflective and think critically within a global community is now as much a fundamental part of learning as the traditional 3 Rs. Not only has Whitby embraced this challenge but we have imbedded this opportunity in our mission as a fundamental aspect of each child’s learning journey. 

As the 2015 letter from the Gates Foundation states,

“The more global citizens there are, and the more active and effective they are, the more progress the world will make.”

I am thrilled to read such wonderful examples of our mission in action from my dedicated colleagues and I am excited for the impact our children will have on our future.

Simone Becker, Head of Lower School on:
How the PYP Exhibition Promotes Global Citizenship

Luz Palmero-Alvarez, Upper School Spanish Teacher on:
How Language Learning Lays the Foundation for Global Citizenship

Andrew Greene, Upper School Individuals and Societies Teacher on:
How Montessori Model UN Models Global Citizenship for Students

Jamie McQueen, Upper School Language Arts Teacher on:
The Golden Rule of Global Citizens

Bryan Nixon

Bryan Nixon

Bryan Nixon is now the Head of School at TASIS England, having previously served the Whitby School community for 5 wonderful years. The 'Life of Bryan' continues to be an adventure in many ways. From Belfast to Bavaria and Cardiff to Connecticut, and now onto London, his learning journey has proved to be a source of wonder and exploration through each opportunity and challenge enjoyed. Bryan shares this journey with his family and the school communities that he serves. He draws inspiration from the multiple perspectives provided by students, parents and colleagues that continue to enrich his learning and expand his horizons.