IBSC conference 2022: Rondebosch Boys’ High school
Nine teaching staff recently attended the current International Boys’ Schools (IBSC) Regional Conference in Cape Town. The IBSC connects dedicated educators worldwide to discover the best learning practices for boys. Members join a coalition of professionals who are committed to advancing schools and the learning experience for boys.
The theme for this year’s events was “The Elephant in the Room”. The idiom “the elephant in the room” describes an obvious, important topic that people avoid discussing because it makes some feel uncomfortable or is personally, socially, or politically controversial. Over the course of this conference, we explored frequently avoided topics associated with schools such as ours. There were stimulating and thought provoking presentations and discussions around topics such as sexuality, masculinity, racism, gender equality and hair. Honest and courageous conversations were had around these tough topics, and we shared ideas on how to tackle them in our classrooms and in our school.
Feedback and take-aways from the College delegates include:
- Ignorance is dangerous (ask if you don’t know)
- We need to redefine our view of masculinity and distinguish between “a good man” and “a real man”
- Ignore the elephant and it will outgrow the room (traditions are no excuse for not “changing”)
- Schools should be about boys, not for boys or of boys
- There is real power in listening and being heard, and we need to make everyone feel safe and seen
- Words matter, and we need to choose them carefully
It was refreshing for us all to be reminded that we are a ‘normal’ boys’ school, facing the same challenges as other boys’ schools. All schools were called on to be brave, and to step out of their comfort zones to engage in these discussions, so that each boy in our care has a safe place and a sense of belonging.