Professional Development at SABIS
Professional development at SABIS is distinctly different from CPD at other international school networks. SABIS’s structured system means that PD is primarily internal, focused on mastering the SABIS methodology rather than pursuing broader educational training. This approach has both advantages and limitations. This guide covers what PD looks like at SABIS, how to supplement it, and how to maintain your professional growth within the system.
SABIS Internal PD
| PD Type | Format | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Induction training | Multi-day workshop on arrival | SABIS system, Point System, AMS, SLO |
| Ongoing coaching | QCC observations and feedback | Classroom delivery, data use, student engagement |
| Data workshops | Team sessions analysing AMS data | Using data to inform reteaching |
| Cross-school collaboration | Occasional network events | Sharing best practice across SABIS schools |
SABIS’s PD model is practical and embedded — you learn by doing, with regular feedback from Quality Control Coordinators who observe your teaching and provide support. This model is effective for developing core classroom skills (delivery, questioning, assessment, data analysis) and is particularly supportive for new teachers who benefit from structured coaching.
Limitations of SABIS PD
SABIS PD is focused on the SABIS system — not on broader educational trends, pedagogical research, or external qualifications. If you plan to move beyond SABIS, you need to supplement your PD independently. External CPD, subject association membership, conference attendance, and self-directed professional reading provide the breadth that SABIS PD alone does not cover. Teachers who stay within SABIS benefit from system-specific training; teachers planning to move benefit from investing in external credentials alongside their SABIS experience.
Supplementary PD Strategies
Complete an iPGCE or Master’s: Many universities offer part-time, online programmes that you can complete alongside full-time SABIS teaching. An iPGCE significantly strengthens your profile for non-SABIS positions. A Master’s in Education provides deeper pedagogical knowledge and career flexibility. See our iPGCE guide and Master’s guide.
Join professional associations: Membership of the Chartered College of Teaching, subject associations (ASE, ATM, HA, GA), or IB networks connects you to professional communities beyond SABIS. See our associations guide.
Professional reading: Invest in your own professional development through evidence-based education reading. This costs nothing and builds knowledge that distinguishes you in future applications. See our book recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will SABIS fund external CPD?
SABIS PD budgets are typically modest compared to premium school networks. External CPD funding (conference attendance, course fees, qualification support) is available at some SABIS schools but not guaranteed. Ask about PD budget during recruitment, and include CPD funding as a potential negotiation point in your contract discussion. If external CPD is important to you, consider self-funding key qualifications (iPGCE costs approximately £4,000-6,000) — the investment pays for itself through improved career prospects and higher future salaries.
