IBSC Ideas Lab
Professional Conversations About Boys and Sports for Boys’ Schools in South Africa, Australasia, and the United Kingdom
Starting May 1, 2024
IBSC Ideas Lab invites sports and athletic staff in member schools in Australasia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom to connect virtually using the free online tool Zoom. Limited to 14 participants plus the facilitator, this IBSC Ideas Lab includes three one-hour sessions for participants to discuss relevant topics.
Designed as an interactive exchange among colleagues, IBSC Ideas Lab engages dedicated educators who learn and grow together. Before each session participants engage with relevant resources to provide a foundation for discussions. Together we surface fresh ideas and build mutual support structures and enduring professional friendships.
Available exclusively to IBSC member schools, first-time participants who can commit to joining all three sessions get preference in registration to support the success of each small group. No more than two participants from one school may register for an IBSC Ideas Lab.
Who Should Attend?
Sports and athletic staff in IBSC member schools in Australasia, South Africa and the UK
Format
IBSC Ideas Lab attendees participate in three scheduled one-hour calls using Zoom. Chris Ekron, head of sports performance and wellness at Bishops Diocesan College (South Africa), facilitates each session.
Conversation Topics
Conversation 1
Defining High Performance in School Sports
Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM BST, 9:00 AM SAST, 5:00 PM AEST, 9:00 PM NZST
Check the event time in your time zone.
Understanding the concept of high performance in school sports is critical for developing competitive and inclusive programs. Delve into how high-performance environments operate across different team levels, including C teams. Address the evolving nature of professionalization in school sports, including the impact of livestreaming and performance pressures. Explore how schools balance competitiveness with skill, personal development, and academic endeavor.
Conversation 2
Developing a Holistic High-Performance Sports Program for the Whole School
Wednesday, May 8, 8:00 AM BST, 9:00 AM SAST, 5:00 PM AEST, 9:00 PM NZST
Check the event time in your time zone.
Creating a holistic sports program is essential for the all-around development of student-athletes. Focus on identifying the elements and challenges of holistic sports programs. Underscore the significance of integrating various aspects of student life, including academics and wellness, and discuss the collective roles of teachers, coaches, and medical staff in supporting student-athletes' comprehensive development.
Conversation 3
The Role of Sports Scholarships in School Sports Program Success
Wednesday, May 15, 8:00 AM BST, 9:00 AM SAST, 5:00 PM AEST, 9:00 PM NZST
Check the event time in your time zone.
Evaluating the impact of sports scholarships is key to understanding and defining the success of school sports programs. Examine how schools measure the success of sports scholarship students and explore strategies for maximizing their talent and potential. Highlight the importance of mentorship in enhancing student-athlete development and achieving the dual-career dream, while also providing the academic support boys need to thrive in their studies.
Registration
IBSC member rate: $150
Refund Policy
IBSC will refund 90% of registration fees if a written request is received two weeks prior to the class. No refunds will be made for cancellations received after this time. Schools seeking to register an alternate to replace a participant unable to attend should contact IBSC@theibsc.org.
Please note: Participants will receive detailed call information and meeting invitations after registration closes.
Facilitator
Chris Ekron
An educator, sports manager, mentor, and entrepreneur with a passion for helping young people achieve their goals, Chris Ekron currently serves as the head of sports performance and wellness and head of the Diocesan Scholar Mentorship Program at Bishops Diocesan College (South Africa) in Cape Town. He is also the founder of Athlete Performance Management (APM), a company that provides athlete-performance coaching and mentorship services.
Ekron has extensive experience in the field of sports performance and development. He has worked with athletes of all ages and levels, from high school athletes to professional cricket players. He is also a qualified coach and teacher, with a post graduate in education and a master's in sport management.
In addition to his work in sports, Ekron is also passionate about education and mentorship. He is currently developing a Ph.D. proposal that will focus on South African school sports bursaries and students' experiences. He believes that education is essential for success in life and remains committed to helping young people reach their full potential.