Here are concise answers based on Passion Home British International School that align with the learning objectives.

1. Difference between linear thinking and systems thinking (using a school example)

When Passion Home British International School introduced the Cambridge Programme, the initial focus was on improving academic standards. However, the change also affected school fees, teacher training needs, learning resources, parents’ ability to pay, student enrolment, and the school’s finances. Instead of looking only at academic improvement, systems thinking considers how one decision influences every part of the school.

2. Three unintended consequences from a previous change initiative

Change initiative: Introducing the Cambridge Programme.

• Parents: Some parents found the additional fees difficult to afford, resulting in delayed payments and withdrawals.
• Teachers: Teachers required extra training and had increased workloads to deliver the Cambridge curriculum effectively.
• School management: Higher operating costs for Cambridge registration, learning materials, and subscriptions created financial pressure on the school’s budget.

3. Simple systems map

Components:

• School Leadership
• Teachers
• Students
• Parents
• Finance
• Cambridge Curriculum
• Facilities and Learning Resources

Connections:

• Leadership supports teachers through training.
• Teachers deliver quality lessons to students.
• Students’ performance increases parent satisfaction.
• Parents pay school fees.
• School fees fund resources, staff salaries, and Cambridge programmes.
• Good facilities improve teaching and learning, attracting more enrolment.

Leverage point:

Improving parent engagement and timely fee payment can strengthen the school’s finances, allowing investment in teachers, resources, and student learning, which in turn attracts more students.

4. One commitment for this week

Before making any decision about increasing school fees or introducing a new programme, I will ask:

“What else might happen, who will be affected, and how can we minimise any negative consequences?”

This question will help ensure decisions consider the entire school system rather than only one area.

Thank you

Noted 

Well noted