What has been the most memorable part of the 2026/27 academic year so far, and why?
From personal milestones to moments of pride within their school communities, we hear what has stood out for leaders across Asia.
In every edition of Education Asia, we want to hear directly from the people leading our schools. Their experiences, perspectives and reflections offer a valuable insight into education across the region.
David Ingram, Head of College at Dulwich College, Singapore
“The WorldWise Shakespeare Festival has been a real highlight. Students and educators came together in Singapore, culminating in a promenade production of Romeo and Juliet, with scenes unfolding across our campus. It was Shakespeare reimagined through young people: collaborative, creative and wonderfully ambitious. Most special was seeing students take risks, learn from one another and experience the confidence and connection that come from creating something together.”
Claire Fletcher-Beel, Headteacher at Phoenix House Tokyo, Japan
“Every decision I make as founding Head of Phoenix House in Tokyo begins with one question: what is best for our pupils? This September, opening Upper House, a new campus for our ten- and eleven-year-olds, put that principle into practice. Designed to bridge the gap between prep and senior school, it offers greater independence alongside daily returns to the main school to sustain their sense of belonging. The Prep 1 children who joined when we opened in 2021 are now confident Prep 6 pupils in their final year. Watching them grow, and shaping the school around their needs, makes this milestone particularly special.”
Vanessa Whey, Principal at The British International School, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
“The most memorable thing so far has been joining BSKL Malaysia. In the first 8 weeks we have had the HAZE. However on the first morning post haze, It was like the school came to life, a magic switch turned on. swimming, playing, sports, little ones dragging their musical instruments behind them across the play ground, laughter, parents in the coffee shop alive with chat. Smiles and literally relief of sun, rain and normality. BSKL at its best.”
Andrew Parry, Principal at Amnuay Silpa School, Bangkok, Thailand
“The most memorable part of the year so far would have to be our school community coming together during the unfortunate period of flooding during October. Despite needing to close the school for two days, our community remained positive with clear communication and points of contacts. It was rewarding hearing and seeing ANS support each other and others outside of the community; donating necessary provisions to support Bangkok Community Help Foundation.”
Simon Mills, Headmaster at Haileybury Almaty, Kazakhstan
“The most memorable part of the year so far would have to be our school community coming together during the unfortunate period of flooding during October. Despite needing to close the school for two days, our community remained positive with clear communication and points of contacts. It was rewarding hearing and seeing ANS support each other and others outside of the community; donating necessary provisions to support Bangkok Community Help Foundation.”
Morag McCrorie, Principal at Nexus International School, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
“I always love school days where the whole community comes together. This term our Malaysia Day celebration really did that for me: our student-led assemblies had everyone working together to share about our Malaysian home and I saw people pushing themselves out of their comfort zone to present or perform. This was all supported by our parents who had organised fabulous activities for the learners to take part in. It is a real community day which always makes me smile!”
Ben Keeling, Principal at Highgate International School, Chonburi, Thailand
“The opening of our school to founding students in August proved a momentous and historic occasion. The result of an exceptional effort by an extraordinary team, it was a threshold that allowed for the realisation of dreams long held, and acted as fitting reward for the trust placed in us by our founding community. We now enter a new chapter. All subsequent endeavour will be built upon the successes of this generation.”
Steve Lupton, Head of School at Australian International School, Singapore
“Our inaugural AIS Big Day Out, a community festival inspired by the Australian music event, has been a highlight. More than 1,700 students, families, staff and friends came together for music, food and fun, with our student musicians taking centre stage. What made it special was the chance to spend time together beyond the usual school day, build deeper connections and strengthen that sense of community and belonging.”
Martin Van de Linde, Principal at the British School Manila, Manila, Phillipines
“This school year, our 50th Golden Anniversary, we celebrate our past, take pride in our present, and look with optimism to our future, one thing remains certain: the heart of BSM has always been, and will always be, its people.”
