
Joan Philp
I enjoyed the past fifteen years at an international school in Guangzhou, China where as a primary homeroom teacher, I played an integral role in the IB PYP authorization and accreditation process. Opportunities led to me being the Visual Arts Specialist, followed by four years in Early Childhood education. As Head of Primary for five years, I served on CIS, IB, WASC and NCCT self-study evaluation teams in a leadership capacity.
A caring culture of community is at the heart of purposeful education. It is evidenced in the empathetic ethos of a school through the beliefs, the attitudes and the relationships that exist amongst staff, students and parents. Developing global citizenship and international mindedness enables us all, students and adults, to be open minded and to be respectful and reflective. It transforms the way we develop attitudes to learning within our local or international classrooms and in society.
As an inquiry focused teacher, I actively seek, plan and create opportunities that encourage student agency. Collaboration and teamwork is the key to successful growth. My role as a professional is multifaceted, that of a role model, a leader, a facilitator and a fellow learner, motivating students to engage in learning experiences, to think critically and respect alternative perspectives.