In today’s rapidly changing educational landscape, international school Heads are navigating an increasing number of unpredictable challenges. The need to connect and share insights is more important than ever. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Dr. James Brightman to launch an invite-only WhatsApp group for Heads as part of a new Virtual Community of Practice (VCoP) called ‘Taking the Lead’. You can request to join the group here.

Dr. James H. Brightman III has successfully led international schools in diverse settings as both a principal and school director, including Germany, Austria and Ethiopia. As the founding Director of International School Carinthia, James played a pivotal role in establishing and growing a thriving IB Continuum School. At the International Community School of Addis Ababa, James has demonstrated exceptional leadership in implementing the IB Middle Years Programme and Career-related Programme and fostering a culture of inclusion. With qualifications as both an IB and CIS evaluator, James is committed to ensuring the highest standards of educational excellence. James recently completed his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Wilkes University with a focus on virtual communities of practice for international school heads. He is excited to learn alongside other heads of school in Teacher Horizon’s new VCoP.

This initiative is grounded in the research of Dr. Brightman, whose study explored how Virtual Communities of Practice can support international school leaders. To see how well his findings align with current needs, Teacher Horizons also surveyed Heads in our global network.

Let’s take a closer look:

VCoPs: A growing need for international school leaders

Why VCoPs matter: The value of connection

Dr. Brightman’s research shows that leaders benefit most from VCoPs through resource-sharing, collaborative problem-solving, and emotional support. He noted, “Virtual communities provide a unique space where school leaders can learn from each other in ways that traditional professional development cannot offer.”

Teacher Horizons’ survey backed this up: nearly 80% of respondents said they wanted to join a VCoP specifically for international Heads. It’s clear that leaders are looking for meaningful peer-to-peer engagement.

The power of smaller, peer-led groups

The research emphasised that participant-driven VCoPs are more effective, especially in small groups where ownership creates relevance and trust.

Surveyed Heads agreed, preferring smaller gatherings over large webinars. They also favoured open dialogue with minimal facilitation, unless there’s a specific learning goal in mind.

Facilitators as guides, not lecturers

Dr. Brightman’s findings highlight the importance of facilitators who know when to step back. A strong facilitator creates space for trust and dialogue without dominating.

Survey respondents echoed this. Many even said they’d be open to co-facilitating, reflecting their desire for shared ownership and mutual learning.

Tools that work: tech for connection

Zoom, WhatsApp, and shared drives were the most effective platforms in the research, providing flexible, accessible ways to connect.

The same preferences emerged in our survey: Heads wanted monthly Zoom or Google Meet sessions, informal WhatsApp group chats, and shared online folders for resources.

Keep it going: recognition and feedback

Dr. Brightman underlines the need for ongoing feedback and recognition, things like badges or certificates that sustain engagement.

Survey participants agreed. Many expressed interest in digital recognition and emphasised the value of feedback loops to keep content fresh and relevant.

Face-to-face still matters

While virtual spaces offer great flexibility, Dr. Brightman’s study also notes the lasting impact of occasional in-person meetups.

Though our survey focused on virtual spaces, some respondents mentioned the benefit of combining both formats where possible.

A new invite-only WhatsApp group for school Heads

As part of our ongoing commitment to connecting and supporting international school leaders, inspired by Dr. Brightman’s research and our survey results, we have launched an invite-only WhatsApp group for Heads. This group is part of the broader VCoP, ‘Taking the lead’. It offers a safe, informal space to share experiences, discuss challenges, and collaborate on solutions with peers from around the world. 

Request to join the group and connect with peers around the globe.

Note: This group is reserved for international school Heads. Please only request to join if you hold a Head of School or equivalent leadership position. All requests are subject to verification.

Looking Ahead 

We’re compiling a list of suggested topics and potential guest contributors from the international education community, many of whom were recommended through survey feedback. Stay tuned as we share updates and expand this growing network.

We’re excited to continue building this professional community, grounded in research, shaped by your feedback, and led by those who know the role best: you.