In the 6^th year of our innovative Global Citizen Diploma (GCD) programme, NIS launched GCD for a new cohort of Grade 9 students. What’s GCD? It’s an initiative designed to inspire and recognise student achievements both within and beyond the classroom. More than the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) requirement for the International Baccalaureate, the GCD is an integral part of an NIS student's holistic education, encompassing classroom learning, school engagement, and worldly experiences.

This year’s launch event was structured to engage students, parents, and faculty alike, ensuring a deeper understanding of the programme's significance to their learning and the IB programme at NIS.

Why the GCD Matters
The event emphasised the "why" behind the GCD. As Ms. Anna Yuen, Activities Director and GCD Coordinator at NIS, explained, “It’s about helping students realise the incredible things they are already doing—both academically and in their personal lives—and showcasing these through reflective practices.”

Interactive and Dynamic Sessions
In a new approach developed by NIS Deputy Secondary Principal Mr. Scott Corbett, the launch featured six interactive stations that offered a unique way for students and parents to explore the GCD framework. Highlights included:

• Alumni Insights: A former NIS student shared how the GCD impacted their personal and professional growth.
• Global Perspective: Ms. Ellen Thorne, the global GCD coordinator, spoke live to students, connecting them to the broader GCD network.
• Creative Expression: A graffiti wall invited students to visually express the benefits of pursuing the GCD.
• Global Issues Workshop: A focused discussion on tackling pressing global challenges.
• Campfire Stories: Seniors reflected on their GCD journey and offered practical advice to Grade 9 students.
• Scavenger Hunt: Participants explored the GCD website.

Parents were also invited to join the sessions, gaining firsthand insight into the programme and its value. “It’s not just about introducing the GCD,” said Ms. Yuen. “It’s about inspiring students and parents to recognise how their unique experiences contribute to their growth as global citizens.”

A Student-Led Initiative
The programme’s launch stood out for its emphasis on student leadership. Members of the GCD steering committee facilitated workshops, underscoring the importance of peer-to-peer learning and collaboration. “The students took ownership of this event,” Ms. Yuen noted. “They were the facilitators, showing exactly what it means to lead and reflect.”

A Broader Vision
As a graduation requirement at NIS, the GCD encourages students to document and reflect on their experiences across ten stories, with six of these being entirely student-led. The programme’s flexibility allows students to highlight personal achievements, new learning experiences, and projects that align with their individual passions.

By launching the GCD in such an engaging and comprehensive way, NIS is reaffirming its commitment to nurturing globally-minded, reflective, and empowered individuals. This new milestone highlights our school’s dedication to preparing a new cohort of students for a future defined by creativity, critical thinking, and global awareness.