by Juma Nyamori
Dear Colleagues,
As we draw closer to the end of the year, it is truly remarkable to reflect on the milestones Leading Your International School (LYIS) has achieved in our collective mission to enhance international school leadership. Over the past few months, the team has been working diligently on a range of initiatives, not least of which is the development of well-thought-out professional development services. These services, now in their final stages of curation, are tailored to meet the specific needs of Principals, Senior Leaders, and Board Members working in diverse educational settings around the globe. The promise of bespoke programmes that can elevate school leadership to new heights is becoming a tangible reality, and I could not be more excited about what lies ahead.
One of the key areas of focus has been the School Leadership Development Programme, a flagship initiative designed to address the dynamic and evolving demands of leading an international school. Over the last few months, I have had the privilege of observing its development from close quarters. This programme reflects LYIS’s commitment to practical, high-impact solutions that empower leaders to navigate the complexities of their roles with confidence and agility. From strategic planning to fostering inclusive school cultures, this initiative encapsulates the diverse skill sets and insights required for effective leadership in today’s educational landscape.
I am looking forward to witnessing the launch of the School Leadership Development Programme, providing attendees with a first-hand opportunity to engage with its content and approach.
The timing for the rollout of this programme could not be more opportune. The upcoming LYIS conference, scheduled to take place at the end of March in Foshan Etonhouse International School (FEIS), Guangzhou, China, will serve as the ideal platform to introduce this transformative initiative to our global community of educational leaders. The conference promises to be an inspiring gathering of minds, bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and innovators from across the international education sector.
This conference is particularly significant for LYIS, as it will not only highlight the latest offerings but also underscore the broader commitment to supporting the professional growth of those who hold leadership positions in international schools. Whether navigating governance complexities, enhancing academic standards, or fostering sustainable growth, the challenges faced by school leaders are vast and varied. Through this programme, LYIS aims to equip leaders with the tools and strategies they need to excel in these areas while maintaining a clear focus on their schools’ missions and values.
The importance of professional development cannot be overstated, particularly in the international school sector, where the expectations placed on leaders continue to grow. At LYIS, I have noticed a strong belief that bespoke learning experiences tailored to specific contexts and challenges can make a profound difference in leadership effectiveness. This belief has guided the meticulous design of professional development services, ensuring that they are not only practical but also deeply relevant to the realities faced by leaders in the field.
In this regard, the School Leadership Development Programme exemplifies LYIS’s approach. Its modules are grounded in best practices and enriched by insights from a diverse range of educational contexts. Participants will explore themes such as strategic decision-making, fostering innovation and sustainability education, managing change, and building inclusive communities. Additionally, the programme will offer opportunities for collaboration and networking, enabling leaders to learn from one another’s experiences and perspectives.
As we prepare for the March conference, I am filled with great expectations. This gathering will not only showcase our efforts but also serve as a powerful reminder of the collective wisdom and expertise that exists within our community. It is through such collaboration and exchange that we can continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in international education leadership.
In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the development of the School Leadership Development Programme and to the broader efforts of LYIS. Your dedication and vision are what make all the great work that gets done possible. To our society and community of principals, senior leaders, and board members, I encourage you to join us in China this March. Let us come together to learn, share, and grow as we continue to shape the future of international education.
The months ahead are filled with promise, and I look forward to embarking on this next phase of our journey together. Here’s to a transformative 2024 and the great promise of 2025, where leadership in international education continues to reach new heights.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Warm regards,
Mr. Juma Nyamori
Chairman, Leading Your International School Board.
To read Juma’s previous Board Chair’s Message posts, click here.