Singapore’s school system is a world class example
Where do we look to submerge the directors of the Provincial Teacher Training Centers (PTTCs) in successful practice? Singapore.
Singapore’s education system is among the most highly regarded in the world. Looking at mathematics and science scores the Singaporean students consistently rank at the top.
It’s not one single element that makes Singapore’s education a world class example but a combination of strategic and systemic choices. Among others the strong commitment to capacity building at all levels of the system, especially the selection, training and professional development of principals and teachers. Herein the National Institute of Education (NIE) plays a key role schooling tomorrow’s teachers and continuously educating Singapore’s teaching professionals.
NIE’s strategies to support the professional development of teacher trainers
VVOB Cambodia invited Dr. Chor Boon GOH, Associate Dean at NIE Singapore, Department of Humanities and Social Studies Education, for a two-day workshop in Phnom Penh. The 18 directors of the Provincial Teacher Training Centers (PTTCs), who were the main target group, learned from Dr. Goh what strategies NIE uses to maintain the quality of its teaching staff.
NIE develops their education professionals to have a broad set of skills and knowledge combined with three core values regarding learner-centered teaching, teacher identity and their service to the profession and the community. The high standards for teacher trainers are upheld by a performance appraisal system that is directly linked to the system set in place for their continuous professional development.
Directors of Teacher Training Centers are inspired by Singapore’s achievements
After the 5-day training the directors received at the beginning of 2016 on the professional development of their teaching staff they were now submerged in the qualitative evolution of the Singaporean teacher training. Goal was to broaden their perspectives and inspire them in their leadership role.
A PTTC director shares: “I was very interested in learning how the educational system and more specifically the teacher training in Singapore had progressed over the years. Hearing how that process took place, what obstacles NIE encountered along the way and what their strengths are now…I recognize it. It motivates me that we can achieve that level of quality too if we invest in developing professional and strong teacher trainers.”
Dr. Goh sent the directors homewards with inspiring questions: “After these two days I want you to go back and think: Can I be a better leader? and Can I make my teacher trainers stronger?”
Article written by Karolina Rutkowska, Education Advisor (Quality Assurance)
