Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted you are considering attending IBSA2021: Understanding Local to Embrace Global to be held from 11-13 June, 2021 at the Pullman on the Park, Melbourne.

IB Schools Australasia (formerly AAIBS) is an Association of International Baccalaureate® World Schools. We have been recognised by, and work closely with, the IB to support our member schools.

Our conference is designed to reflect on our uniquely Australasian context and how we can best implement the IB mission in our schools. 

In developing this conference, we have worked with and listened closely to what our member schools have said is important to them.

• Local: Our member schools want a conference specific to our Australasian context. We need to understand our local context to understand our globalised world.

• Global: Understanding our place in the world has never been more important than now. We aim to explore our local identity within a global context.

• Accessible: We want as many delegates from as many member schools to attend. Our member schools receive discounted rates, but non-member schools are also welcome to attend. We will be inviting non-member schools from both within Australasia as well as the broader Asia-Pacific region to attend.

• Connected: Our Standing Committee and members strongly believe that networking and making connections is the most important part of a conference. Our conference is therefore designed to maximise networking opportunities and time with sponsors.

What can I expect?

 Day 1 is designed to bring all participants together – to hear from the IB and shape the vision over the coming days. 

 As a participant in Days 2 and 3 this conference is designed to cater for your role and your school’s individual needs:

·         Your Role: you will work with colleagues from other schools facing the same challenges as you- whether in the classroom, as an IB Teacher, an IB Coordinator or as a school leader. 

·         Your Programme: You will also work with your colleagues in our Programme Forums designed to meet the needs of your specific IB programme- whether PYP, MYP, DP or CP

·         Your School’s Journey: Sessions are available for everyone regardless of where your school is on your IB journey. Whether your school is an authorised IB World School, in the candidacy phase or purely interested in learning more about the IB and how you might implement it in your school.  There are sessions designed to match your individual needs.

 A key component of our conference is the opportunity to network with old acquaintances, develop new relationships and learn about the latest issues affecting IB schools in Australasia.  That is why the conference ticket is an all-inclusive price. The networking drinks on 11^th will be an opportunity to learn more about your fellow attendees and the products and services available from our Sponsors.

 Our Gala Dinner and Awards Night to be held at the MCG will celebrate the successes of our Australasian colleagues in a number of areas including: Network of the year, Pedagogical leadership team, Outstanding collaborative practice and Commitment to service and community support.

 We are proud to have the support of the IB for this event and are looking forward to welcoming you to IBSA2021.

 Sincerely,