For international school students navigating a world of shifting identities, academic pressure, and global connection, developing a strong sense of self is essential. In environments shaped by mobility, diversity, and high expectations, emotional intelligence isn’t just helpful—it’s foundational.
That’s why The Best Version of Me workshops place self-awareness and emotional literacy at the centre of student development. These workshops align strongly with the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, particularly its emphasis on personal growth, learner agency, and reflective practice. Whether schools are offering the PYP, MYP or DP, this framework supports the IB mission to develop “inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people” who are ready to contribute to a more peaceful world.
At Kings Baptist Grammar School in South Australia, this program has been embedded into the Middle School experience. Across a full school year, students take part in termly sessions exploring emotional intelligence through themes such as personal values, goal-setting, self-management, and relationship building.
This isn’t just about leadership training—it’s about life skills. All students engage in the workshops, regardless of whether they hold a formal role. The aim is to help them understand who they are and how they want to show up in their relationships, schools, and communities.
For those in elected leadership positions, the journey is extended through additional sessions that apply emotional intelligence in practical leadership settings—teamwork, communication under pressure, and leading with purpose.
Katina, Deputy Head of Middle School at Kings Baptist, shared:
“The Best Version of Me workshops have empowered our Year 6 students and Years 7–9 House Captains to build confidence and develop a stronger sense of self by reflecting on their personal values, strengths and areas for continuous growth. Through interactive sessions they have learnt how to set meaningful goals and lead with purpose. These workshops have been a powerful tool to enable personal growth and leadership development, helping students to emerge and flourish as leaders. I could not recommend this program enough.”
The program is highly adaptable to different international contexts. Whether delivered in a single term or across a full year, The Best Version of Me provides schools with a structured yet flexible platform for developing confident, reflective and emotionally intelligent young people.
If your school is seeking new ways to nurture authentic leadership, deepen student wellbeing, or strengthen IB-aligned personal development—The Best Version of Me could be a valuable next step.
To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, visit Global Community Sports or reach out directly via our contact page.
About the Author
Rick Shrowder is the founder of Global Community Sports, a South Australian-based organisation working across Australia, India and the UK to empower communities through sport and education. With 25 years of experience in coaching, mentoring and youth development, Rick has led projects in over 70 schools, universities and community settings—building programs that champion inclusion, empathy and personal growth.
Connect with Rick at www.globalcommunitysports.com
