Search by topic
We prepare young citizens of the world
By Professor Kay Livingstone, LTS
Developing Scotland's young people as global citizens and equipping them with the knowledge, understanding, skills and values that will serve them well in today's multicultural society plays a key role within CfE. LTS is committed to this and we recognise the importance of looking beyond Scotland's borders to develop our children and young people as global citizens.
We have established a strong partnership with the Office of Chinese Language Council International (Hanban) to promote teaching and learning of Mandarin and Chinese culture within schools through Confucius Classrooms. There are now 10 Confucius Hubs across Scotland serving 15 local authority areas.
In June this year we welcomed a delegation of key educational professionals from China - including Mr Lin Yansheng, Deputy Director General of the Tianjin Education Commission - to Scotland for a showcase of the excellent work going on in the Hubs. Pupils and teachers from every Hub made presentations and performed Mandarin-speaking demonstrations, Chinese songs and dances and a Chinese silk fashion show. It was a fabulous experience for both practitioners and pupils.
LTS also organises professional development visits for teachers, giving them an important opportunity to learn from other education systems across the world and share best practice.
The Scottish Continuing International Professional Development programme provides practitioners with the chance to reflect on the Scottish education system and to develop thinking and activities that directly impact on schools and pupils in Scotland.
Every visit is embedded within each individual teacher's professional development and addresses key aspects of CfE. There is preparation before going, reflection on returning and a proactive approach to ensure that change is embedded in practice.
Global citizenship is key to developing young people who are prepared for life and work in the modern world. It enables young people to actively participate in an increasingly globalised society by gaining an understanding of international issues and developing personal values relating to social justice and self awareness.