'The best way to train students is to let them be challenged,' Repton's Matthew Broderick

It is evident to other educators and myself that the field of education is undergoing constant shifts. As a teacher of ​Biology and Theory of Knowledge, I can appreciate that curricula such as the IGCSE are very accessible while also hosting plenty of content that covers the many issues facing the world today, such as biodiversity and climate change. It is so important that we educate young people to be mindful and considerate of the bigger picture.

I do believe that there is room for improvement in today’s global educational experience, as sometimes education can be a little slow to pick up on certain topics and themes. I would like to see some flexibility for schools to teach a unit outside of the curriculum that will be important or relevant. If I was to do this for Biology, I would delve into neurobiology or similar areas.

Across the globe, there are a number of educational practises that take place which I would like to implement in my role at Repton, as I aim to give students multiple opportunities to achieve mastery. Often, we test and assess students all at the same time before moving on, based on which we need to evaluate if we can bring in assessments that allow students the best chance of showing their potential, even if at different times. ​I would also like to see some nod towards educational literacy, as my own MSc did so. Through use of current academic articles, students were able to access, and understand, current biological developments.

In terms of changes in the field, I think that we might see a dissolution of the typical working day. This would allow education to move away from 8am to 3pm model and accommodate the 24-hour world we live in. I also think it might be important to learn other languages in the British curriculum such as Mandarin, as these sectors are taking over the world in many different industries. English, Maths, and Science, are subject areas that have proven to be most resilient to change, however, I believe these subjects may eventually undergo a major shift in curriculum content. A classic example would be the introduction of first aid skills into Biology, as we learn about what might happen to the body in certain conditions, but we could embellish that with how we deal with those situations.

It is a challenge to go about preparing students for futures that are not set in stone, however the best way is by simply letting them be challenged, allowing them to fail, and by developing resilience to develop ideas and solutions. No matter what lies ahead, those skills allow you to succeed in any field.

About the Teacher: 

Matthew Broderick is currently in his second year of teaching Biology, both at the IGCSE and IB levels, as well as Theory of Knowledge at Repton School Dubai. He holds an MSc in Science Education and has worked across London, Doha, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in the capacity of a Head of Department and Head of Year.

He is in the process of writing his 21st textbook this year, and outside of education enjoys cooking, baking, snooker, cricket, football, golf, tennis, and reading.