It was in January 2020 that the Admissions working group last met. Admissions officers from eleven different schools were represented, which made us the largest pre-conference group (19 people) at the AGIS in Hannover. I presented and organized the workshop together with Allegra Peruzzi from Bavarian IS. While some of us stayed in contact via online meetings, we have not had a chance to meet as a larger group and discuss what has changed in the world of admissions in German international schools since 2020.
Session 1- Introductions, Inquiry Slam and Round Table Discussion In this first session we look at a variety of activities that serve to promote problem solving, critical thinking, application of math in the real world, technology integration and global perspective. These tasks can be used in multiple areas of the mathematics program in secondary, can be incorporated into curricular frameworks such as IB, IGCSE. The activity will be followed by a round table discussion to address topics specific to our working group including, but not limited to best practice, differentiation, ATL’s, specific program items, resource sharing etc..
Session 2 – The Mathematics Internal Assessment in the IB and Project Based Mathematics In this session we will look specifically at the Exploration in the IB Mathematics program as an opportunity for students to complete independent research in a mathematical area. The focus will be on approaches to finding topics, how to address skills through lower secondary mathematics and will culminate in a group assessment activity to address the marks criteria. The session will also be useful for non DP IB teachers who wish to find ways to promote project based learning in mathematics.
Session 3 – Learning Walk and Plenary In this session we will venture into the surroundings of the Kongresshotel to take photos and/or collect artifacts that will be used to design tasks that will be shared within the group. The goal is to have a collection of activities we can all take back to our schools. We end the day with a reflection about the activities and begin looking at plans for the next conference.
09:30-10:00 Welcome and Introductions 10:00-12:30 First Session - PD for school counsellors 12:30-13:30 Lunch 13:30-15:30 Second Session - Collaborative Planning Time 15:30-16:00 Coffee Break 16:00-17:00 End of day plenary and wrap-up
In accordance with AGIS’ Policy handbook, every AGIS school is asked to commit to DEIJ-values and together as an AGIS community we can accelerate progress in this area by building communal solidarity. Each AGIS school is strongly encouraged to send at least two representatives to this pre-conference event.
As outlined in AGIS’ Policy Handbook:
“We at the Association of German International Schools (AGIS) are rooted in values-driven representation. We will develop an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce reflecting the diversity in our schools and the Germany community, to better meet the needs and aspirations of our students, their families, and communities. We are committed to improving the cultural security and responsiveness of our workforce and ensuring that culturally diverse people are well-represented and supported at all levels across German international schools.”
The AGIS DEIJ working group meets in-person annually during the pre-conference day to put these claims into action by leveraging our collective expertise, supporting each other and contextualising how DEIJ-values can underpin all aspects of our schools’ ecosystems.
This year’s meet-up will reflect on student and staff experiences of othering and belonging and co-construct next actions for liberation and support.
We will explore what it means to uphold the dignity of all intersectional identities under our care during polarizing and politically tense times in Germany, Western Europe and across the globe. Ramifications of events in the US and across the EU will be discussed and shared. Tensions will be discussed and ways forward will be co-constructed by all present, utilizing the humanizing pedagogy guidance to support thinking and planning.
Deputy Head of School, Bavarian International School
La Mór (they/them) is an international educator and leader, currently working at the Bavarian International School, as Deputy Head of School. Their research and practice interests are agency and co-agency for the democratisation of education, evidencing learning and growth for efficacy... Read More →
This pre-conference session is for members of the AGIS Elementary Literacy working
group as well as for staff teaching literacy in the PYP primary school. We have students in our classrooms who love writing as well as students who find writing challenging and are reluctant to compose a text. In the course of their learning, students are exposed to a variety of texts forms according to the learning objectives. They write personal recounts, narrative as well as non-fiction texts. One way to help students become independent effective writers is through the use of mentor texts. By having a closer look into different sorts of mentor texts, students are exposed to a variety of genres and are given ideas of what written texts should look like. They detect writing conventions and realize that reading as well as writing are interconnected when making meaning of texts. Analysing mentor texts is not only about teaching students how to read and write but even more - teaching them to read texts like writers. The shift from "teaching writing" to "teaching the writer" is an important step in understanding the value of student agency within the IB classroom. The agenda of our session is as follows: 09:30-10:00 Welcome Coffee 10:00-12:30 First Session (Student agency and mentor texts: how to give students voice, choice and ownership) 12:30-13:30 Lunch 13:30-15:30 Second Session (Fostering literacy skills) 15:30-16:00 Coffee Break 16:00-17:00 End of day plenary and wrap-up (Main ideas and examples we take away)
This working group is for all educators responsible for /interested in the home language learning programmes at AGIS schools. The presenters will share examples (good and bad) from their schools, and invite all participants to bring examples from their school.
This year’s meeting will focus on the following aspects:
A. Comparison of different programmes at the AGIS Schools: - What can we learn from each other? - How can we / our students collaborate? - IB policies with regard to multilingual learning
B. Parent Communication: - How to encourage parents to invest in home language learning/lessons? - Why home language learning is important? - Communication of whole school language paths - Reports about home language learning
C. Translanguaging vs Translating: Finding the right balance - Use of home languages (= translanguaging) not only as a scaffold but a part of a linguistic repertoire and of the student’s identity - Translation policy/ guidelines for teachers of all subjects - Role of AI/technology: sharing of resources and discussion of challenges
The session is designed to bring secondary school humanities teachers to grow the working group and collaborate on issues and changes that impact humanities. Participants will share examples of best practise in planning, teaching, assessment and collaboration.
AGENDA (provisional) 08.30 - 09.00 Welcome Coffee 09.00 - 10.30 Warm welcome, introductions, review of the past year, discussion of the agenda 10.30 - 12.00 Sharing best practise, presentations on teaching ideas, resource sharing 12.00 - 13.00 LUNCH 13.00 - 15.00 The city is our classroom - visiting some sites of interest in Potsdam 15.00 - 15.30 Coffee Break 15.30 - 17.00Finalising the working groups activities for 2025-26
The aim of this pre-conference is to give AGIS librarians the opportunity to meet and share ideas and issues that are unique to the school libraries and their staff. Librarians are often working in professional isolation, with few or no other members of staff doing the same job in their schools. Spend a day with other international school librarians, discussing a wide range of issues influencing our students' success. Bring ideas to share; be prepared to participate in small group discussions and gain lots of new ideas!
10:00 - 10:15 Welcome 12:30 - 13:30 Lunch 10:15 - 10:30 Ice Breakers 13:30 - 14:30 Success Stories 10:30 - 11:00 New Tools 14:30 - 15:30 Breakout Groups 11:00 - 11:30 Book Sources 15:30 - 16:30 Book Talks 11:30 - 12:30 Challenges 16:30 – 17:00 Wrap Up
This pre-conference is aimed at modelling and sharing what an MYP classroom looks like when school staff collaborate, share and apply insights, utilise internal sources (staff, resources, data, etc.), apply numerous pedagogical approaches and systems, and interact with the local community. In addition, we will discuss, share and learn more about our programs to identify strategies, and applicable takeaways to further inspire, challenge and support learning at our schools.
Some areas of focus: MYP Program, educational activities outside of the classroom, Student Voice, MAP testing, Compass Education thinking systems, co-teaching, mentoring program, online tools, and displays.
The structure for our 2025 CC meeting is being decided during our meeting in March. These are the topics we aim to address: • Reaching out to German State Universities – Strategies and collaboration opportunities • Artificial Intelligence in the Admissions Process – School policies and counseling practices • Competitions and Their Role in the Application Process – Supporting supra-curricular activities • LinkedIn in University Admissions and College Counseling – Student profiles, alumni connections, university data • Uni-Assist Workshop (rescheduled from last year) • Country Application Strategies for IB Students in Germany – Canada, Japan, Korea
We will investigate the process of guiding student development and workshop best practices for delivering Service as Action and CAS programs. Examples of selflessness in service, projects, and their integration into units are contrasted with the more performative and comfortable service experiences that our privileged students often have. Prominent themes include successful projects at our schools and ways we integrate themes of service and actionable projects into the curriculum. For example, we will show how we introduce the meaning of service to our Grade 6 students in an InS unit at ISH and service mentorship at BIS. Our sessions will also include examples of programs that have been successful, programs we hope to build and expand, and the pitfalls and challenges our schools currently face in building meaningful service opportunities. We will also include some time for workshopping ideas and discussing issues around service learning in an international context.
The session is geared toward secondary programs, but primary teachers may also find it useful. **The presentation includes a dog, so allergies or fears should be indicated.**
Data privacy in schools is no longer a future concern—it’s a present-day necessity. More than five years since the introduction of GDPR, schools continue to grapple with its implementation amidst evolving regulations, emerging technologies like AI, and shifting vendor practices. This full-day workshop, "Data Privacy by Design," provides a practical framework for embedding privacy-conscious practices into your school’s culture.
The morning focuses on GDPR fundamentals, German-specific regulations, and the EU AI Act, with real-world examples that demonstrate how these laws directly impact schools. After lunch, participants will engage in hands-on activities, such as evaluating software for compliance, navigating privacy policies, and understanding essential documentation like DPIAs and RoPAs. These practical exercises will equip attendees with actionable strategies and workflows.
The day concludes with an open forum for sharing best practices and experiences, fostering a network of privacy-conscious educators and administrators. Participants will leave with actionable insights, access to selected templates, and the confidence to lead privacy-by-design initiatives in their schools.
This workshop is more than just a session—it’s your roadmap to becoming a leader in privacy by design. Join us to leave informed, empowered, and ready to make a difference in your school’s data privacy practices.
This pre-conference is aimed to foster a community of support of EAL teachers in AGIS schools to share practices, strategies and systems that can help us support our English language learners and each other in our roles. A part of the pre-conference session will aim to enhance EAL instruction by exploring effective coteaching models and coplanning strategies, fostering collaboration among educators to create more inclusive and supportive learning environments for EAL students. As well as developing the working group platform.
-implementing co-teaching models and co-planning strategies- -sharing strategies and practices in the areas of: teaching, assessment, support plans, etc. -EAL working group organisation: developing a sustainable platform
Joining Forces:
This full day workshop will discuss how a cooperation between an ELA and LS teacher resulted in building a Middle School skills program. The first session of the workshop will be a combined 75 minute presentation with the EAL Working Group and then we will split into separate groups for a more in-depth focus.
This workshop is ideal for educators/administrators seeking to foster a more structured and supportive learning environment for students, combining multiple grade levels. We hope to demonstrate how successfully working and planning together (between departments) can lead to teacher-driven change.
In response to students' growing challenges in developing essential academic skills, BIS introduced a structured program to strengthen writing, reading, routines, and research skills. This initiative aimed to establish a common language and consistent teaching expectations across classrooms, ensuring all students receive the support they need.
Middle School EAL teacher, Munich International School
I am a collaborator, co-teacher and coach who empowers educators to create learning opportunities to suit all language learners' needs. I am part of the Munich International School EAL programme that strives to support practices within a sheltered immersion philosophy and the use... Read More →
Attendees will explore and gain practical strategies to support diverse learners, foster student independence, collaborate effectively with teachers, and enhance their professional confidence to create a more inclusive and empowering learning environment.
This workshop offers an opportunity for PYP Coordinators and assistant principals across AGIS schools to come together and explore innovative strategies to enhance teaching and learning. Participants will engage in collaborative discussions on evaluation processes, share programmatic solutions to common challenges, and strategize for the 2025/26 academic year. With a focus on addressing the shared needs and priorities of AGIS schools, the session aims to foster alignment, collaboration, and a collective vision for the future of PYP in Germany.
This session is open to all participants and the Inclusive Education working group.
09:30-10:00 Welcome Coffee→ Introductions and Welcome to AGIS.
10:00-12:30 First Session Additional Needs, SEL and Behavioural Disorders: Lessons from Adolescent Forensic Psychology: Support and Child Protection.
I. Manifestations in schools II. Digital Behavioural on Social Media, Metaverse, AI and the Digital Realm III. Case Studies and Table top Drills: Working in Teams And Resources shared with participants
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-15:30 Second Session Inclusive Leadership in Polycrisis: Building your Crisis Response Team.
Students with Additional Learning and Psychological Needs: Holistic view Intensive Interventions: Principles and MTSS Security in Schools: Lessons from Security Studies for educational institutions Ethical and Moral Principles in emergency response and child protection Team roles Conflict Resolution and Positive disruption of team dynamics Phases Protocols Working on emergency case scenarios
15:30-16:00 Coffee Break
16:00-17:00 End of day plenary and wrap-up
Research relevant Resources, policy building, international Institutions and relevant Literature/ Sharing resources ( online and a printed booklet for all participants ).
This engaging and interactive session is designed for primary and secondary school educators to explore key aspects of media literacy in the digital age. Through this in-depth, one-day workshop, participants will examine how AI, social media, and algorithms shape young learners’ media consumption and creation. The session also addresses critical issues, including the spread of misinformation, ethical media use, fostering healthy digital habits, and enhancing critical thinking through diverse activities and digital tools.
• 09:30-10:00 Welcome Coffee • 10:00-12:30 First Session: Fostering responsible digital habits and privacy awareness. Encouraging ethical use of digital devices and platforms. • 12:30-13:30 Lunch • 13:30-15:30 Second Session: Detecting and preventing digital threats. Understanding digital identity, rights, and intellectual property. • 15:30-16:00 Coffee Break • 16:00-17:00 Exploring the implications of digital footprint & wrap-up.
As a language teacher at ISB and author partnered with Cambridge University Press, Pearson, and Kognity, I aim to assist and support fellow educators. I focus on digital media and language learning, subjects I have devoted significant time to exploring. Through workshops and writing... Read More →
Friday September 26, 2025 09:00 - 15:45 CEST TBAAm Luftschiffhafen 1, 14471 Potsdam
This workshop prepares participants to become NEASC approved accreditation visitors for international schools and includes a comprehensive overview of the NEASC protocols in action. Participants will develop an understanding of the philosophical foundations and logistical processes involved in all NEASC accreditation pathways. Aspiring visitors will be introduced to the NEASC visitor competencies which will guide development and growth of personal skills and attributes. A commitment to personal growth and a coaching mentality complements the knowledge and experience required to engage with NEASC visits and the NEASC family of schools.
Understand and Apply NEASC Accreditation Pathways. Demonstrate Foundational NEASC Visitor Competencies. Analyze and Interpret Evidence through a Transformational Lens.
Friday September 26, 2025 09:00 - 15:45 CEST TBAAm Luftschiffhafen 1, 14471 Potsdam
Are you a primary subject specialist teacher or homeroom teacher looking for ways to build a lesson which is differentiated and inquiry based to help support all learners? These two fundamental elements of the Approaches to Teaching will be explored in detail and time will be given to problem solve and improve subject specific lesson plans together.
Schedule: 09:30-10:00 Circle Time-Introduction
10:00-12:30 Session 1: Differentiation ensures that all students have access to meaningful and appropriately challenging learning experiences. In this session we will explore the potential barriers that need to be considered and ways to modify content, process, product or learning environments so that all students are supported. This session will offer strategies and tips that can be implemented in the classroom to help us move away from a one-size fits all model.
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-15:30 Session 2: -We will unpack what we currently know regarding inquiry learning and will use a visual thinking routine to further our understanding. -We will then break into groups to look at sample lesson plans and look for ways to improve them through what we have learned regarding differentiation and inquiry.
15:30-16:00 Coffee Break
16:00-17:00 -Teachers will have time to look at a current lesson they will be teaching in the future and look for ways to improve it through what they have learned during the session.
• Foster mutual support and a sense of community among assistants within AGIS. • Facilitate the exchange of experiences and insights. • Deepen discussions on topics introduced in regular online meetings. • Provide a shared platform to communicate and support each other. • Brainstorm solutions to common challenges, enhancing support for school communities. • Promote professional growth through collaborative efforts. • Develop targeted professional development initiatives for group members.
I suggest a follow-up of our roundtable for German Teachers to facilitate the exchange of experience regarding the DP German A course. These sessions should address all areas of the curriculum. We recognise the necessity of bringing together German teachers from international schools to promote dialogue and collaboration. Our emphasis lies in facilitating discussions on feedback regarding the exam papers, subject report content, and assessment outcomes. We seek to address expectations and quality concerns, particularly relevant when comparing German schools offering the IB curriculum versus IB schools with predominantly English as the language of instruction.
The IB Diploma Coordinators Roundtable is a valuable opportunity for professional networking and collaboration. This forum brings together coordinators from diverse schools and regions to share experiences, discuss challenges, and exchange best practices for effectively managing and implementing the Diploma Programme. Our goal is to explore key issues and develop actionable strategies.
The morning session, Assessment, Exams, and Data-Informed Practices, will cover crucial topics such as AI and academic integrity, practical applications of IB Insight, the implications of new exam regulations, and the logistics of organizing the November exams. In the afternoon, Enhancing the Programme will focus on strengthening the IB Core—exploring meaningful CAS projects, updates in the EE and TOK across subjects, and strategies for developing a strong Professional Development Plan (PDP). Additionally, we will discuss initiatives to support student well-being.
09:30-10:00 Welcome Coffee 10:00-12:00 First Session: Safety at school and preparation for serious situations. There will be an overview of the preparation and organisation of security in the school in connection with the local circumstances. 12:00-13:00 Lunch 13:00-15:00 Second Session: Alternative heat energy sources at school. In the second half of the day, we will look at alternative heat sources and their use in everyday school life. The synergy effect in combination with PV systems will also be discussed. 15:00-15:30 Coffee Break 15:30-17:00 End of day plenary and wrap-up
Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation explores the rise of anxiety, depression, and mental health struggles among young people, particularly in relation to technology, social media, and changing childhood experiences. The Student Agency and Leadership working group will host a full day session seeing how the main topics raised in this book could be addressed by student leadership and agency in schools through practical implementation strategies.
09:30-10:00: Welcome Coffee - Icebreaker
10:00-12:30 1st Session: The Anxious Generation: Leigh Krueger The Rise of Anxiety and Depression The Decline of Real-World Social Skills The Impact of Social Media Overprotective Parenting and Risk Avoidance
12:30-13:30 Lunch
13:30-15:30 2nd Session:The Role of Student Leadership - Practical implementationnStrategies: Dr Cora Saurer
15:30-16:00 Coffee Break
16:00-17:00 End of day plenary and wrap-up: Annual meeting Creating a mission and value set for the Student Agency and Leadership working group. Feedback on the Young Leaders Conference (gr3-5) and Aspiring Leaders Conference (gr6-8) 2025 Discussion for the need for a Future Leaders Conference (gr9-12)
Instruction, Assessment and Innovation Coordinator, Metropolitan School Frankfurt
Being in education for over 24 years has taught me the real meaning of "you are never too old to learn". Whilst I enjoy problem-solving and creative thinking and bring these regularly into my teaching, I also value and appreciate well-structured systems and order. My passion topics... Read More →
Explore the power of creativity and innovation in education through this dynamic, hands-on workshop. As technology and AI continue to reshape learning and work, the need for adaptable, creative problem-solvers has never been greater. Grounded in insights from the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, this session highlights how educators can cultivate these essential skills in themselves and their students.
Using the LEGO® Serious Play® methodology, participants will engage in interactive exercises that spark fresh perspectives, encourage risk-taking, and foster collaborative problem-solving. You’ll build models to explore challenges in education, experiment with creative solutions, and design a shared vision for future-ready classrooms. Through the power of storytelling and metaphor, you’ll develop strategies to integrate creativity into your teaching practice.
Whether you’re looking to inspire innovative thinking, rethink your curriculum, or create more engaging learning experiences, this workshop will equip you with practical tools to transform your approach.
ES Technology and Innovation Coordinator, Frankfurt International School
Here is my bio according to ChatGPT:Jamie Stark, an exceptional individual with a wealth of expertise, serves as the ES ICT Coordinator at Frankfurt International School. Simultaneously pursuing a Doctoral degree in Education (EdD) from Bristol, Jamie's dedication to academic growth... Read More →
Friday September 26, 2025 09:00 - 15:45 CEST TBAAm Luftschiffhafen 1, 14471 Potsdam
Understanding the complexity and varied definitions of student voice is crucial for implementing effective strategies that enhance it. Although interpretations differ, a shared understanding is essential to fully realize its impact on educational environments. In this session, participants will learn a clear, operational definition of student voice, explore instructional strategies that promote it, and start to develop actionable plans. These efforts will establish a foundation for the Student Voice & Aspirations learning journey, fostering a more engaging and inclusive school culture.
