Kateryna Sygydiuk

Teaching Vision

As a true believer and supporter of the IB teaching and learning model, I am motivated to emphasise the development of the whole student. Supporting the IB model, I recognise that education goes beyond imparting knowledge and skills and instead seeks to instil in students a sense of curiosity, compassion, and global awareness. As a teacher, I aim to create an environment that encourages inquiry-based learning, where students are actively engaged in the learning process and encouraged to think critically and creatively, prioritise the development of intercultural understanding and communication skills, recognise the importance of preparing students to be active and responsible global citizens. I place immense value on holistic, student-centred education relevant to our world (What is an IB education).

Qualifications and experiences

I am a highly experienced and innovative music educator with over 15 years of teaching experience, including eight years in the UAE.

My skills and broad expertise in music and high-level motivation towards enhancement and life-long learning make me a confident professional moving with the latest educational developments.

I have obtained a Bachelor's degree in Music Arts, a Special Diploma in Music performance, and a Master's in Inclusive Special Education. At present, I am pursuing my IB PYP and PGCEi qualifications.

My initial degrees in professional music and experience performing in different bands, ensembles, orchestras, and solos has equipped me with the skills to guide and support my students in taking risks, overcoming performance-related challenges and maintaining their high standards of professionalism. My fervour for promoting inclusivity, equity, and optimal learning experiences for my students following issues put on a map of global agenda led me to pursue a Master's in Inclusive Special Education and complete The Incredible Years Parent training program. As a result, I introduced a course for parents of children with challenging behaviour patterns, marking the first of its kind in the UAE.

As a Music Teacher, I have always been focused on identifying innovative approaches and creative practices to solve educational challenges. As a Primary and Secondary Music Teacher, I conducted multiple live events and small video projects to enhance students' results in the subject. I've engaged students in participating in choruses, string chamber bands and musical productions. My goal has always been to remain ahead of new and relevant technology, creating interesting cross-curricular links to prepare students for the future. I have honed essential talents such as event management, technology implementation, and parent communication in my current teaching role.

I am a respected team player who is always eager to listen, collaborate and share valuable learning and professional development tools with my colleagues. With my diverse skill set, I am confident I can facilitate positive change and impact outcomes in the classroom.

My Teaching Support Videos

One of my first videos

Exciting and engaging video supports students in learning music sign reading.

With the rapid technological advancements happening before our very eyes, it won’t be long before educators can no longer fulfil the education system’s demands solely by focusing on their subject matter. Consequently, it is the responsibility of every professional to expand their area of expertise to the degree that enables them to guide their students effectively.

Quarter and Eight Notes

Clap-Clapping is a rhythm lesson for beginners in music that helps to get familiar with and achieve automaticity in the singing quarter and eight notes.

The videos featured on this page are the outcome of my learning experience, which has equipped me with the tools to encourage and guide my students in exploring cross-curricular connections associated with digital art.

Something for the youngest students

Video for beginners to create an exciting percussion ensemble!

According to the IB Art Scope and Sequence, teachers’ understanding of the arts is crucial. Their comprehension shapes their selection of resources, the design of learning experiences, and teaching effectiveness.