October Updates & Notices
Dear subscribers
Welcome to the October 2026 Updates and Notices
Site updates
Preparing for IB authorisation
Preparing for IB authorisation is about more than completing documentation. It means building the understanding, structures and capacity needed to deliver an IB programme well. Explore our practical guidance and tools for IB authorisation, which includes a document checklist, establishing a timeline, writing an organisational chart, appointing an IB programme coordinator, writing the five IB mandated policies, choosing the subjects you will offer, preparing course outlines, appointing a CAS Coordinator and writing your CAS handbook, appointing your Extended Essay Coordinator, designing a TOK course outline, working with the consultant and planning for the consultant visit, and the authorisation visit.
Preparing for IB evaluation
New resources support schools preparing for evaluation, including guidance on writing a good self-study, writing a good Programme Development Plan (PDP), DP classroom visits and PYP classroom visits. You can also explore our frequently asked questions, review the key ideas behind evaluation and consider what not to do when preparing for an evaluation visit. These resources emphasise evaluation as an opportunity for reflection, learning and meaningful school improvement.
Developing an IB Coordinator’s Toolkit
What does it really take to be an effective IB Coordinator? Our developing Coordinator’s Toolkit explores the leadership skills needed to build an IB culture, develop collaborative teams, lead professional learning, manage change and prioritise what matters most. Discover practical approaches to writing vision and mission statements, leading the vision, developing an IB culture, building effective teams, developing trust and growing leadership in others. Further resources explore what we are trying to change, tools for leading change and balancing priorities. Together, these resources support Coordinators in moving beyond administration to become effective pedagogical leaders who build shared understanding, colleague ownership and sustainable improvement.
Looking ahead
We will continue developing practical resources to support Heads of School and IB Coordinators in leading learning, preparing for authorisation and evaluation, and strengthening their programmes.
In November I am facilitating four short Think-Ins - it would be great to see you:
Focus On: IB Teaching – A Practical Guide for Teachers new to the IB: 20 November 2026 – 14:00 CET
Focus On: Writing a programme development plan: 23 November 2026 – 14:00 CET
Focus On: Essential strategies for a successful IB evaluation visit: 24 November 2026 – 14:00 CET
Focus On: Preparing for IB Authorisation, from requirements to readiness: 25 November 2026 – 14:00 CET
With best wishes
Chris Wright