Professional growth, moving forward with Jaguars

Throughout Professional Development Training Week, SISS teachers came together to discuss, exchange ideas, and strengthen their professional knowledge and skills, preparing to take bold steps forward in the new academic year.

This is one of the annual activities organised by Sydney School (SISS) at the beginning of each academic year, allowing teachers to reflect on the previous academic year, celebrate achievements, recognise those who made significant contributions, and receive updates on policies, teaching methods and changes for the new academic year. With professional development sessions held at both whole-school and year-level scales, they were well prepared to step into the academic year 2026 – 2027 with the spirit of moving forward with strength, leading with dedication, wholeheartedly supporting one another, and creating happiness.

Looking back on the academic year 2025 – 2026, SISS teachers continuously dedicated themselves to guiding Jaguars towards new frontiers of knowledge, helping them develop both the knowledge and skills needed to become happy digital citizens in the 21st century. They were also the ones who cheered the students on, encouraged them and stood by their side, ensuring that they always felt loved, cared for and supported. Through this, students gained greater confidence to grow and explore their own passions. In recognition of these efforts, the School honoured outstanding teachers with the Outstanding Performance Award and Recognition Award. Each award was not only a recognition of their achievements but also an encouragement to continue pushing their boundaries in the new academic year.

As a happy school for digital citizens, SISS also places a strong emphasis on professional development to enhance the effectiveness of technology integration in teaching. The recent training sessions provided teachers with opportunities to further strengthen their skills in using technology and AI for lesson planning and classroom management, helping them optimize their time, spark students’ enthusiasm for learning and build modern digital classrooms.

Sessions on creating happy classrooms and helping teachers maintain a healthy balance between physical and mental well-being were also organised. In these sessions, every teacher was encouraged to share, exchange ideas and engage in discussions in an open-minded and positive environment, because SISS understands that every teacher’s initiative is a solid building block in creating a path forward for the Jaguars.

At the same time, two sharing sessions led by Dr Bui Nghia Thinh, a parent at the School, helped teachers strengthen essential first-aid skills, from assessing situations, checking breathing, controlling bleeding and treating wounds to preparing necessary medical supplies. More importantly, teachers also learned how to respond more proactively to situations that may arise, contributing to the creation of a safe and positive school environment for students.

Before continuing their mission of “steering” the journeys of the academic year 2026 – 2027, teachers came together for a team-building activity to connect hearts that share the same ideals, strengthen their team spirit, and recharge their energy for a new journey. As those who directly accompany students on their journey of cultivating happiness and positive values, SISS teachers continuously renew their energy, nurture a positive spirit and spread love. Because behind every student’s smile is a team of teachers who stay connected, understand one another, and inspire each other every day.

A new academic year has begun. SISS teachers, keep your “oars” steady and continue journeying towards new frontiers together with the Jaguars!