Interview with Yann Bidan, General Manager of Maple Bear CEE

1. What are some unique challenges and opportunities you've encountered while implementing the Maple Bear concept in Central and Eastern Europe?

Implementing Maple Bear in Central and Eastern Europe has presented both unique challenges and opportunities, particularly in early childhood education. Many parents in the CEE region still view ECE primarily as a form of childcare rather than an educational foundation. This perception can lead to undervaluing the importance of a high-quality ECE program which we deliver at Maple Bear. Traditional views on education and child-rearing persist, often focusing on basic care rather than developmental learning during the early years. On the contrary, research shows that the biggest brain development is during the first years, and they are fundamental for the future development of children. The fourth Industrial Revolution is bringing major technological change. Digital fluency, knowledge of STEM and literacy are essential. So are the soft skills that enable people to leverage their unique human abilities such as getting along with others, adaptability, understanding and taking the perspective of others. All these skills can be grounded in the thinking, well-being and language skills acquired during the preschool years.

The Canadian curriculum, which is one of the best in the world and its focus on the 21^st Century Skills - creativity, critical thinking, and bilingual education, is unique and attracts parents looking for progressive bilingual education for their children.

2. How does Maple Bear contribute to the local communities where its schools are located, beyond providing education?

Maple Bear's contributions to local communities extends beyond providing high-quality education. Through partnerships like the one with the Terry Fox Foundation, engaging students in local charity projects, involving families, and fostering community collaborations, Maple Bear empowers students and makes a positive impact on the communities, in their own country. 

Maple Bear collaborates with the Terry Fox Foundation to support cancer research and raise awareness. This partnership involves organizing and participating in Terry Fox Runs, where students, families, and school teams come together to fundraise for cancer research. This initiative teaches students about resilience, community support, and the importance of charitable work.

We believe that our education can bring positive change in the world by educating future leaders, with a strong sense of social justice. As part of this commitment, we believes in giving back and we make sure our curriculum incorporates themes of social responsibility and community service so that students at Maple Bear schools are exposed to the concept of giving back. The goal is to turn a whole generation of students on to the joy of giving back. And with the current times, solidarity and empathy are qualities we want to see in every human.

3. Looking ahead, what innovations or developments can we expect to see from Maple Bear in the coming years, especially in response to global educational trends?

Looking ahead, Maple Bear is poised to embrace several innovations and developments in response to global educational trends, particularly focusing on technology integration for the enhancement of teaching methodologies. 

Additionally, we will launch soon, The Maple Bear Academy for our Teachers and Academic leaders. Enhancing our current training program and offering specific certification to our Academic Schools Teams.

Emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education will prepare students for the future workforce. Maple Bear will integrate STEAM projects and activities into its curriculum, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Establishing innovation labs in schools where students can experiment with technology, work on hands-on projects, and develop their ideas will cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Maple Bear is committed to staying ahead of global educational trends.

4. As the General Manager of Maple Bear in Central and Eastern Europe, what have been the most rewarding aspects of your role?

As the General Manager of Maple Bear in Central and Eastern Europe, I have found several aspects of my role to be immensely rewarding. These experiences continuously reaffirm the value and impact of our work.

One of the most rewarding aspects is visiting our schools and witnessing firsthand the positive impact of the Canadian educational programs on our Maple Bear students. Seeing children thrive, displaying curiosity, creativity, and confidence, reassures me that our efforts are making a significant difference in their lives.

It is great as well to Receive feedback from parents about how Maple Bear has positively influenced their children's development. Hearing stories about how our approach to early childhood education has instilled a love for learning and provided a strong foundation for future success underscores the importance of our mission. 

Amid the daily operational and business challenges, it's crucial to stay connected to the core mission of Maple Bear. The moments when I see the joy and progress of our students remind me why we do what we do. It's easy to lose track of this when focused on business aspects, but these experiences help me reconnect with our purpose.

If you are interested in learning more about education at Maple Bear, please contact us to schedule a meeting or book a school visit.