COBIS provides teacher training for bilingual education, offering a range of specialized programmes, professional development opportunities, and an expanding set of bilingual course options that support educators in international and bilingual settings.
Teacher Training Programs Offered by COBIS
COBIS, the Council of British International Schools, has a robust catalogue of teacher training programmes that cater to the needs of international educators, with particular emphasis on bilingual education enhancement and inclusive classroom practices.
Initial Teacher Training (ITT) and Qualifications
- COBIS collaborates with respected UK institutions to deliver Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programmes for those teaching in international and bilingual contexts.
- Courses offered include International PGCE, iQTS (International Qualified Teacher Status), MA Education, and more, available through universities such as Coventry, UWE Bristol, Buckingham, Sunderland, and Tes Institute.
- Flexible, online-based delivery helps educators fit professional development around teaching commitments in bilingual or multilingual schools.
Early Career and Ongoing Professional Development
- The COBIS Programme for Early Career Teachers (CPECT) is a two-year blended learning programme focused on supporting new teachers in international settings.
- Special diplomas for International Teaching Assistants (DITA, DITA Early Years, DILTA) are suitable for educators supporting bilingual classrooms.
Specialist and Bilingual-Focused Training
COBIS addresses key areas in bilingual and multilingual education:
- In 2023, the COBIS Programme for Middle Leaders (CPML) was delivered bilingually at Misk Schools and Epsom College Malaysia, modelled to allow non-native English speakers to access high-quality leadership training in their language.
- Networking and regional professional learning hubs foster the sharing and adaptation of best practice for educators working in bilingual environments.
Latest Updates for 2024–2025
COBIS continues to expand and adapt its training offerings to match the evolving needs of bilingual education worldwide:
- Bilingual delivery: The CPML is increasingly available in dual language formats, making leadership development accessible to bilingual and local staff members.
- New Training Schools: Hartland International School (UAE) and Epsom College (Malaysia) have recently joined as COBIS Training Schools, supporting the training and mentoring of bilingual educators from Autumn 2024 onwards.
- Upcoming conferences and courses: The 2024/25 COBIS CPD Calendar includes a variety of relevant courses such as Teaching EAL (English as an Additional Language) Pupils in the Mainstream Classroom and workshops on neurodiversity and inclusive learning which are crucial in bilingual settings.
- Discounts for COBIS Schools: Educators linked to COBIS schools often receive preferential rates on course fees.
Table: COBIS Key Programmes for Bilingual Teacher Training
| Programme | Delivery Mode | Suitable For | Language Support | Registration Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International PGCE / iQTS | Online, Part-time | Aspiring & working teachers | English | Year-round |
| COBIS Programme for Early Career Teachers | Blended | New international teachers | English | 2025/26 open |
| CPML (Middle Leaders) | Dual language/Online | Bilingual leaders | English & other | Autumn 2024 |
| DITA / DILTA | Blended/Online | Teaching Assistants | English | Rolling |
Benefits of COBIS Training for Bilingual Education
- Adaptability: Many modules can be taken as stand-alone courses, allowing flexible professional development routes.
- Inclusive Practice: Workshops on neurodiversity and inclusive classrooms prepare teachers for diverse and multilingual student populations.
- Career Progression: CPML and CPECT provide career growth opportunities for educators in bilingual and international schools.
- Networking: Regional hubs and networking events help teachers access global expertise and shared resources.
Bulleted Highlights
- COBIS hosts recognized bilingual teacher training and leadership programmes, including dual language delivery.
- New training schools in the COBIS network offer regional access to high-quality professional learning for bilingual educators.
- Regular updates and additions to CPD calendars ensure that COBIS responds to the latest research and local needs in bilingual education.
- Discounts and member privileges support access to COBIS’ growing catalogue of bilingual teacher development opportunities.
Conclusion
COBIS is committed to providing high-quality teacher training focused on bilingual education, with programmes ranging from early career development to leadership training, increasingly available in multiple languages and tailored to international needs. Their ongoing updates, expanding network of training schools, and dedicated CPD calendar ensure that educators working in bilingual contexts can access relevant, flexible, and inclusive professional learning and support.
