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From Wellington UK to WCIH– a Masters Visit

29 Jun 2024

Following the ongoing tradition of inter-school visits, on 13th June, James Dahl, the 15th master of Wellington College UK, came to visit WCIH. He first came to this campus back in 2019. Some of the purposes of his visit was to see the changes that have taken place since he last came, to strengthen connections between the two institutions, and to talk about the future projects coming up.

James Dahl was appointed 15th Master of Wellington College in September 2019. Prior to that he was Second Master Elect as well as Deputy Head Pastoral, having served previously as Director of Admissions & Marketing at the College since 2013. He was educated at The Royal Grammar School, Newcastle before moving to board at Haileybury for his Sixth Form. He went on to read Classics at Cambridge before starting his teaching career under Anthony Seldon at Brighton College.

He is passionate about holistic models of education, as well as the transformative power of coeducation and boarding and has broadened the College’s social purpose through the introduction of an educational grant-giving function as well as growing the Prince Albert Foundation, a transformational bursary scheme for children from backgrounds of limited means and disadvantage.

During the period that Mr. Dahl visited WCIH, Our Year 6 Head of Houses for Benson, Raglan, Murray, Combermere, and Hardinge held a 'Connection' meeting with their counterparts from Year 12 Wellington College UK. Discussion topics included the history and heritage of each House, the culture, and values they uphold, and standout House activities. They also shared tips and advice on being a leader in the guise of a Head of House.

Mr. Dahl was able to take the time to answer a few questions.

Whatare your first impressions of WCIH?

Mr. Dahl: My first impression of WCIH is that it is a truly Wellington school, with a strong emphasis on values and a commitment to holistic education. The school offers excellent opportunities for pupils to develop themselves academically, as well as in other areas such as global citizenship and character.

Canyou tell us about the partnership between Wellington College UK and WCIH, andhow it benefits teachers and pupils at both schools?

Mr. Dahl: The partnership between Wellington College UK and WCIH benefits both staff andpupils in many ways. Pupils can participate in online discussions with heads of the UK college and visit for summer school, while staff members can share knowledge and ideas with their counterparts in China. For example, the head librarian and heads of careers and higher education have visited WCIH tocollaborate on library development and university preparation for pupils. The relationship between the schools is strong and valuable.

Can you share any exciting new initiatives orcollaborations that Wellington College UK is going to have with WCIH?

Mr. Dahl: Wellington College UK has several exciting new initiatives and collaborations with WCIH. They are renewing old initiatives such as summer school and introducing new ventures such as The Bridge, a research centre connecting teachers from around the world. The Wellington College Education Conference is the most exciting development, as all masters and partners from various Wellington schools will come together to plan new ideas that benefit all staff and pupils. So, there are more ideas and events to come out of the conference that are worth keeping an eye on.

Whatis your vision for the future of Wellington College?

Mr. Dahl: My vision for Wellington College is that it remains an interesting and inspiring place for young people worldwide to receive an education. Our goal is for it to become one of the leading co-ed boarding and day schools in the UK and world, ensuring our graduates achieve the best exam results and attend top universities. But more importantly, we aim to help them become the best version of themselves and develop leadership skills to serve their communities. We want them to go out and shape a better world through their career paths and other activities, whether they attend Wellington College in the UK or any other Wellington school worldwide.

What message would you like to convey to the pupils, parents, and staff of WCIH during your visit?

Mr. Dahl: I would like to express my gratitude to the pupils, parents, and staff of WCIH for being part of our pioneering and innovative network of schools. We are grateful to have you as part of our family and encourage you to embrace our purpose statement of pioneering education to serve and shape a better world. Your support towards this positive mission is greatly appreciated as we embark on an exciting journey of development in the Wellington College education family.

Could you please choose a word and complete the phrase “Be you, be....”

Mr. Dahl: Be you, be kind.

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