The IBCP takes centre stage at the CRSC Conference
The global labour market is evolving, demanding a new approach to education that integrates academic and vocational qualifications. The International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) blends academic study with practical, real-world skills to better prepare students for the needs of tomorrow.
First established in 2012, the programme has witnessed a surge in appeal and is currently recognised in 50 countries. Despite its growing popularity, there remains a need for more awareness and content regarding the IBCP.
The forthcoming CRSC Conference in The Hague seeks to remedy this issue. Taking place between 25th-26th January 2024, distinguished speakers from prominent organisations such as the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO), respected provider of vocational education BTEC, and educational technology company InThinking will converge at what is currently the world’s only conference focused on the IBCP.
Jonas Winblad, CEO of CRS Consulting, explains the motivations for organising a forum solely dedicated to the IBCP. “Most IB conferences have a clear emphasis on the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), whereas the IBCP doesn’t get as much attention. We want to create a time and place to meet peers from around the world to discuss and work collaboratively on themes and topics aimed to develop vocational education, and the CP in particular.”
In response to feedback from participants and speakers from the previous CRSC Conference in Malmö back in January 2023, the upcoming event has been extended to two full days. The first day will exclusively focus on the IBCP, while the second will delve into the potential of BTEC as a solution for career-related studies. In addition to thought-leading talks, participants can expect a range of Q and A sessions with industry experts and the IBO, as well as networking sessions with IBCP alumni.
They’ll also get to meet with several esteemed university partners, including Regents University London, NABA Milano, SEG, IBO, and Pearson/BTEC. It’s a rare opportunity to foster connections and discussions around how to collectively push for more innovative and future-focused educational approaches.
A place to make connections
Renowned author and independent IB educational consultant Rebecca Austin Pickard, who will speak on the first day of the conference, emphasises the significance of the conference’s location. “The Netherlands is one of the key places where the IBCP is growing in recognition and a very attractive place for further study. When you get CP educators from all over the world coming together, you realise just how much commonality there is in what we want for our students.”
Rebecca underscores the value of collectively creating a more defined and consistent message to grow recognition of the IBCP. She also impresses the benefits of connecting with BTEC representatives at the conference. “If you want to speak directly to BTEC, then definitely come. You’ve got someone from BTEC doing a whole day, and that is absolute gold dust for schools that are doing BTEC in Europe.”
She notes the unique benefits of conferences such as these in nurturing a supportive community for CP educators. With CP programmes often being relatively small in schools, the conference serves as a valuable space for networking, idea-sharing, and collaboration, allowing educators to break away from the daily grind and collectively shape the future of education.
“CP educators can feel a bit isolated, so coming to a conference where we’re all in the same boat and getting to ask the questions you’ve always wanted to ask is a fantastic opportunity.”
Click here to find out more about the CRSC Conference.
