Interview with Principal Ian Barnes | Essence of IB Education

The Concordia Principal Interview Series aims to lead the development of the industry, utilizing the power of the principals' thoughts, to cultivate more top-notch and innovative talents, to change the world through education, and create a better future!

In August 2023, Ian Barnes, with his infinite passion for education, officially joined Concordia as the Campus Expat Vice Principal and CISN Academic Vice Principal, where he will lead a team of stellar teachers from the East and West to give Concordia a new reputation in the field of education.

Ian Barnes

Campus Expat Vice Principal

CISN Academic Vice Principal

·MA International Liaison & Communication, University of Westminster, UK

·Extensive IB and K12 teaching and management experience in bilingual and IB international schools in the UK, Shanghai, Wuxi and Qingdao

·Taught Year 10 & 11 IGCSE English and Literature / A-Level English Literature at John Leggott College, and King Edward VI Grammar School, UK

·Head of English and KS3 Leader at Shanghai United International School

·Cambridge Examiner, responsible for Cambridge Examinations accreditation and curriculum development

In today's interview, we will have a sincere conversation with Principal Ian, who has extensive experience in education management, and share with you his professional experience and educational philosophy, as well as his connection with Concordia.

“I believe that education is the most important tool in the world, able to create more peaceful, healthy, and happy societies – leading to a prosperous globalised future, with acceptance, cooperation and opportunities. It is also why I am so delighted to be able to work at Concordia.”

Principal Ian's passion for education stems from a unique educational experience. As a child, he was exposed to multiculturalism when he moved first to Indonesia, then to Hong Kong, with his parents. As a student growing up in international education, he has first-hand experience of the international curriculum system; and his experience of studying and living in many countries has given him a deep understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

His unusual upbringing has led him to take a keen interest in the languages and the cultures of different countries, and he is able to speak Arabic as well as Spanish, French and some Japanese. As a student he also swam and played rugby at national level. His experiences traveling gave him a rich early perspective on "what education is all about" and his immersion in different cultures and disciplines has made Mr. Ian an exceptional international educator.

·Principal Ian, you have extensive experience with the IB, as well as teaching and management experience in K12 schools. Do you think what’s the educational essence of the IB program?

“ I think the essence of IB is an internationalized, rigorous and holistic education, deeply rooted in universal values which promote the cultivation of competent global citizens with a strong international outlook. At Concordia, teachers model and focus on these core concepts, leading students to study global issues and enhancing their intercultural competence and global perspective. ”

In line with the enduring philosophy of IB education, Concordia will create a barrier-free and diversified pathway to higher education, to enhance children's empathy and leadership, and to improve their self-awareness, self-management, and other future professional qualities. In such a vibrant, inclusive and multicultural community, we will provide students with a rigorous globally focused education that fosters inquiry, knowledge and empathy, and nurtures a lifelong love of learning.

· Principal Ian, how do you think IB education can develop future-oriented global citizens in the Chinese context?

"In my opinion, the reason why the IB program is so beneficial to students in international schools is, firstly, the development of international awareness, it's clear that the world is going to become more and more connected and that international thinking allows us to look at the world from a global perspective across cultural and linguistic barriers. Also, an important part of modern education is the transdisciplinary, or interdisciplinary education – which is becoming more and more important today. In the real world, when you do something you rarely just do math or English in isolation, you need to combine multiple disciplines in order to complete a project, or achieve a common goal."

Concordia also upholds the school philosophy of "Focusing on a holistic approach to child-centered development to bring out the best in ourselves", and embraces the uniqueness of each individual learner to equip them for the future. Principal Ian added that, at the same time, we aim to cultivate talents with inquiry ability, comprehensive knowledge, empathy and lifelong learning. All of which are in line with the concept of an IB education.

We look forward to Principal Ian joining us on this new journey to create a brand new era for Concordia!