The Future of Education Now 2025 (#FOEN25) festival, held at WAB from March 13 to 15, brought together students, educators, parents, and thought leaders to explore the evolving landscape of education (add link). In this special episode of the WAB Podcast, we have a recording from a very special panel from FOEN25. Moderated by Stephen Taylor, WAB's Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, this conversation was joined by three WAB students:?Ryan from Grade 10 and?Cali and Hannah from Grade 11, and global education leaders including:?? 

• Jason Cummings, Director of Member Engagement of Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC) 
• Ellen Heyting, Project Lead for International Networks and Credentialing from Melbourne Metrics 
• Trillium Hibben, Director of Commission on International Education at New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) 
• Jane Larsson, Executive Director of the Council of International Schools (CIS) 
• Angela Meikle, Global Head of Private IB Schools of International Baccalaureate (IB) 

Together, the panel explored how education is evolving beyond traditional assessments, emphasizing competency-based learning and the recognition of student-driven achievements. Speakers highlighted how new tools and approaches are providing a more holistic view of student progress, moving beyond grades to assess real-world skills and competencies. Schools and universities are shifting towards formative, competency-based assessments that allow students to showcase not just what they know, but what they can do. 

Students shared how their projects—ranging from scientific research to organizing student-led initiatives—illustrate the impact of hands-on, real-world learning. Their experiences underscored how students thrive when given opportunities to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. The discussion also emphasized the need for new ways to credential essential skills such as collaboration, ethical decision-making, and leadership. 

Another key theme was the increasing role of student voices in shaping education. Schools and organizations are moving towards more collaborative models, ensuring that students are active participants in designing their learning experiences. Accreditation processes are also evolving, focusing more on the impact of education rather than compliance, to better support students in a rapidly changing world. 

As the session concluded, the panelists expressed optimism about the future of education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between schools, universities, and accreditation bodies to create learning environments that develop both knowledge and essential competencies. To hear the full discussion, tune in to this extra special episode of the WAB Podcast.