Innovation Series: WAB Joins CIS Partnership with Melbourne Metrics 

In recent years, WAB has been a member of the CIS Summits, bringing together leading international schools, universities and agencies towards recognition of alternative assessment and transitions between schools and universities. The New Metrics for International Schools (NMIS) pilot program is one of the outcomes of these Summits, and recently members of WAB’s leadership team attended the NMIS launch at the University of Melbourne. Featuring research experts with proven credibility in the field, the 23 pilot schools worldwide will collectively explore the potential for bringing these competencies to life in ways that are valid, research-based, and compelling. Schools will investigate how complex competencies can be observed and measured, helping students to grow their strengths and recognize their development. 

One example of competency is “Agency in Learning”, a goal of education to create learners who are self-directed, adaptable, open to new opportunities and able to manage their own learning and success in changing times. In a world increasingly influenced by AI, human agency is ever-more important. This research can help us ensure that our learners are prepared to independently navigate multiple potential futures.  

“This program is a great fit for our development at WAB,” says Director of Innovation in Learning & Teaching, Stephen Taylor. “Although we are at an early stage in this research, we are excited to learn more from the work of Enterprise Professor Sandra Milligan and her fabulous team. New Metrics align well with our goals towards Profiles of WAB Alumni, complementing academic success in our IB programs and developing rich and transferable ATL skills.”  

During the NMIS (New Metrics International School Program) launch, we heard from researchers and schools in Australia who have already embarked on their journey, thinking about how these competencies complement their curriculum and enhance student growth. We visited some schools in the area, hearing about their successes and challenges, giving valuable insights as we consider our next steps. Back on campus, work will continue to align with our existing Profiles of WAB Alumni, academic and experiential programs. As part of WAB’s “Collaboration for Impact” professional learning model, a team of teachers will work together to consider the opportunities NMIS presents, and over the next two years of the pilot program we will share outcomes.  

The NMIS launch was expertly facilitated by Dr. Ellen Heyting, who represented Melbourne Metrics at our recent FOEN25 Conference, alongside leaders from the IB, CIS, New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC) and the Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC). “It is exciting to see the collective momentum towards valuing enduring competencies across international education,” says Stephen.  

This partnership marks another step in WAB’s journey to make all learning more visible, meaningful, and human. By connecting with global experts and like-minded schools, we’re strengthening the bridge between research and practice, and reaffirming our commitment to helping students succeed academically while thriving as compassionate, capable, and future-ready learners.

You can revisit their conversations with students in the WAB Podcast: https://www.wab-edu.cn/whats-happening/all-news/view-page/~board/news/post/fireside-chat-on-uncovering-students-future-pathways  

Special thanks to Jane Larsson, Executive Director of CIS and her team for making this collaboration possible.  

Find out more about NMIS here: https://education.unimelb.edu.au/melbourne-metrics/home/new-metrics-international-schools-program  

Find out more about Profiles of WAB Alumni here: https://learn.wab.edu/ws/strategy/alumniprofile/home  

This year, through our Innovation Series, in collaboration with Stephen Taylor, our Director of Innovation, we’ll be sharing stories and examples of what innovation looks like across WAB. We’ll share stories from classrooms, examples from alumni, and insights from global partners. Our hope is that together, we can build a clearer picture of how innovation at WAB helps our students become better learners and prepared for life beyond WAB.