ONESQA successfully conducted a training event titled “Assessors Training for International Schools” at Bangkok Patana International School on October 29 and 30, 2024. Approximately 90 potential international school assessors from over 39 institutions participated in the training program. The event brought together key international accreditation experts and local education stakeholders to enhance the skills of External Quality Assurance (EQA) assessors operating within the international school context.

The training featured contributions from five renowned EQA experts representing four International Accreditation Bodies (IABs). Among them were Dr. Marilyn George, Executive Vice President, and Dr. Margaret Alvarez, Vice President from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC); Mrs. Valerie Dunsford, Deputy Chief Inspector of Education Development Trust (EDT); Dr. Darlene Fisher, International Accreditation Leader from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC); and Ms. Ji De-Giorgi Han, Associate Director of School Evaluation and Professional Development for the Council of International Schools (CIS).

Key representatives from ONESQA included Dr. Rangsan Maneelek, ONESQA Acting Chairperson, and Dr. Kaanwarin Polanunt, Committee for Basic Education, alongside Dr. Nantha Nguantad, ONESQA Acting Director and Dr. Kittiya Evans, the Deputy Director. The training received strong support from the International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) and Bangkok Patana International School, highlighting the collaborative effort to strengthen educational standards in international schools.

The comprehensive training program addressed critical topics such as “Pre-Visit Preparation,” “The Visit Process—Gathering Data and Evidence,” and “Review of Standards.” Additionally, sessions covered the “Procedure of the Joint and Non-Joint Accreditation,” “ONESQA Standards and Indicators on Thai Language, Culture, and History (TCH),” as well as practical issues on “Reading SER,” “Writing Reports,” and the “Assessor/Inspector’s Code of Ethics.” The inclusion of ethical considerations reinforced the importance of assessors acting with integrity and professionalism in every aspect of their work, ensuring that evaluations are fair and unbiased.

Particularly, ONESQA Acting Director, emphasized the importance of ethical issues throughout the training, highlighting that all assessors must comply with the ONESQA Code of Ethics. This adherence to ethical standards is vital to ensuring that assessors gain the trust and respect of all stakeholders, while also maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the evaluation process. By upholding these principles, ONESQA assessors can foster an environment of transparency and professionalism, which is essential in the international school context.

Feedback from participants indicated a high level of satisfaction with the training, citing its practical relevance and the expertise of the international trainers. The event not only aimed to equip assessors with necessary skills but also fostered a shared understanding of international educational standards.

Dr. Rangsan Maneelek and other pertinent ONESQA executive team authorities expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the training possible, emphasizing ONESQA's commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Thailand's international schools. Undoubtedly, this training is a vital step in ensuring that our assessors are well-prepared to uphold and evaluate educational standards, ultimately benefiting students across the nation.