As part of the 2024/2025 Program Kerja Direktorat Dikdasmen YPI Al Azhar, in collaboration with Cambridge English, a professional development training program was organized for Al Azhar English teachers across all levels—kindergarten, elementary, junior high, and senior high school. This initiative aimed to ensure the quality of English teachers within the Al Azhar educational system.
The training, titled Cambridge Progress (Professional Growth for English Subject Specialists), was held on:
- Date: Monday to Friday, February 17-21, 2025
- Time: 08:00 AM – 04:00 PM WIB
- Venue: Al Azhar Campus, Kebayoran Baru, 2nd Floor Hall, Masjid Agung Al Azhar Complex, Jl. Sisingamangaraja, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta
This training program was part of a three-year professional development initiative designed to enhance the pedagogical and language proficiency skills of YPI Al Azhar’s English teachers. The primary objectives were to deepen teachers’ understanding of language systems and teaching principles while strengthening their instructional practices through collaborative learning and reflective teaching. As the representative from SMPIA 36, Pia Zakiyah, was delighted to participate in this valuable training program. New insights were gained to improve teaching strategies, and collaborative learning environment was important to enhance the skills among teachers.
Throughout the training, participants explored key aspects of language acquisition, analyzed factors influencing student learning, and integrated effective teaching, learning, and assessment strategies. The training modules aligned with the Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT) framework; however, the primary goal was to enhance teaching practice rather than solely prepare teachers for the exam.
The training was facilitated by Allen Davenport and spanned five days, totalling 25 contact hours, with an additional 1-2 hours per day dedicated to independent reflection and assigned readings. It involved a highly interactive approach, including group activities, discussions, and peer collaboration. Participants also completed preparatory readings and reflective assignments during the training.
By the end of the program, participants successfully:
- Identified key features of language systems and their communicative functions.
- Demonstrated an understanding of principles of language learning.
- Reflected on factors influencing language acquisition, such as motivation and learner differences.
- Discussed teaching approaches that support meaningful language use in the classroom.
- Explored the role of tasks in integrated learning, teaching, and assessment.
- Developed assessment strategies that provide constructive feedback and track learner progress.
This professional development opportunity was a significant step toward enhancing the quality of English education within the Al Azhar school system. We are proud of our teachers for their dedication to continuous learning and improvement, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of this training in their classrooms.