Nanjing International School is dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous professional growth among its educators. Professional Learning Days (PLD) exemplify offering diverse workshops and collaborative sessions designed to enhance teaching practices and align with our school's mission of inspiring international-mindedness, personal excellence, and creative thinking.

“Our NIS professional development week equips teachers with the latest educational practices, helping them create more inclusive classrooms where everyone feels welcome and supported,” said Ms. Tanya Farrol, NIS Learning Support Teacher and Board President of SENIA (Special Education Network and Inclusion Association). “It’s focused on giving educators the strategies and ideas they need to tailor each student’s learning experience and foster a positive environment for all.”

The key focus of PLD Week 2025 was “Belonging", emphasising our school’s commitment to meet the needs of each individual student. A highlight was having Ms. Ceci Gomez-Galvez, an esteemed speaker and specialist in language education, share the foundations and benefits of translanguaging in multilingual and multicultural classrooms. This was followed by sessions led by our ELL Specialist Team, who facilitated sessions for our faculty to explore strategies to enhance translanguaging practices, supporting students in navigating multiple languages and cultural contexts.

The week progressed with NIS’s continued dedication to inclusion in sessions led by our Learning Support Specialists, focusing on "Designing for ALL". Teachers delved further into Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and practices, especially planning that caters to diverse learning needs. This approach ensures that educators are equipped to create accessible and engaging learning experiences for all students. Additionally, teachers had the opportunity to select from a range of sessions presented by their peers, exploring topics including effective AI use, Korean and Chinese culture, visible thinking routines, and content-area literacy support.

Beyond academics, NIS cares deeply for our community and their well-being. PLD Week included sessions on Child Protection, underscoring our dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive environment. Additionally, activities such as yoga, pottery, and community swims were designed to promote self-care and strengthen bonds among faculty members.

“I continue to be amazed by the depth of expertise and professionalism at NIS,” said Ms. Sandra Chow, our Director of Learning. “In every workshop or planning session, you can see a clear and intentional commitment to growth, development, and enhancing learning experiences for our students.”

By investing in these comprehensive professional development opportunities, NIS ensures that its educators remain at the forefront of educational best practices. This dedication not only enhances the quality of instruction but also directly benefits students, as teachers implement innovative and inclusive strategies in the classroom. Through such initiatives, we continue to cultivate an environment where both educators and students thrive.