Our school is dedicated to cultivating students who are not only academically adept but also embody the essence of global citizenship – their stories are more than numbers. This November, NIS proudly enters another vibrant chapter with our signature Global Citizen Diploma (GCD) programme. Now in its 5^th year, the GCD at NIS is a mature, thoughtful program that encourages our students to reflect deeply on their role in a global context. The programme fulfils and extends beyond the International Baccalaureate’s CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) requirement, offering a richer journey of personal growth as they engage in activities that foster meaningful action.

Our annual launch event is a vibrant exchange where peers from Grades 10-12 share their personal GCD stories to inspire a new cohort of Grade 9 students. Their experiences extend beyond classroom walls, ranging from management to community service, to public speaking and much more.

Ms. Anna Yuen, GCD Coordinator, reflects on the program's impact: "The Global Citizen Diploma is a program that allows students to showcase their personal and unique journeys to becoming kind and considerate individuals who care for the environment and for each other."

The GCD aligns seamlessly with our school's award-winning strategy component of "Burst the Bubble". By encouraging students to engage in a range of experiences beyond a traditional classroom setting, the GCD fosters a deeper understanding of global issues and diverse perspectives. This approach not only broadens students' horizons but also actively challenges them, promoting a more inclusive, empathetic, and globally aware mindset.

"When they step outside of their comfort zone or do something new, they really grow," Ms. Yuen adds. "And they're able to tell that story and share it with the world."

Our Secondary students look forward to joining the Global Citizen Diploma Schools Festival in O'ahu, Hawai'i in April 2024, a summit of culture, ideas, and experiences with students from schools from around the globe.