ISG Jubail Strengthens Learning Through Feedback Conversations with Tom Schimmer

ISG Jubail staff recently spent time learning with education expert Tom Schimmer through small-group sessions, an after-school workshop and breakout discussions at ISG Learns. The experience gave teachers and leaders a chance to reflect on how feedback, assessment and clarity can shape deeper learning across the school. Heads of Department also participated in focused conversations with Tom and shared insights that relate directly to their teams.

The sessions encouraged staff to think about the purpose of feedback and the ways students respond to it. One of the central ideas explored was that grades simply summarize learning, while feedback helps create it. For feedback to support growth, students must engage with it and use it in meaningful ways. This includes giving students time to think, revise and reflect, as well as inviting them to participate through self-assessment and peer feedback.

Another key discussion centered on the importance of clear success criteria. When students understand what strong work looks like, they approach tasks with confidence and make better use of teacher guidance. Strategies such as co-creating criteria, analyzing models and using rubrics as learning tools can help build that clarity.

Staff also reflected on how assessment serves as part of instruction, rather than something that happens at the end. Classrooms become more active when teachers gather evidence of learning in real time, adjust their approach and encourage visible thinking. These practices strengthen students’ ability to take ownership of their progress.

Across divisions, staff explored practical strategies that can be applied consistently in age-appropriate ways. Some examples included green and pink highlighter feedback, giving students chances to compare examples and non-examples, and prompting students to locate correct and incorrect responses after receiving guidance. Teachers also discussed the value of setting aside time to refine feedback practices together.

The conversations with Tom Schimmer helped create shared connections across the ISG Jubail community. By learning with one another and exchanging ideas, staff continued to build a supportive environment where feedback is clear, purposeful and centered on student growth.