Recently, it was a great pleasure to return to China for the first time in three-and-a-half years. I spent time with the leadership team, staff and students at Haileybury Senior School Tianjin for Years 10–12 and the Haileybury Elite School Tianjin which is for students in Years 1–9.
This is the tenth anniversary of the setting up of the schools in Tianjin and I was absolutely delighted to see the energy, enthusiasm and focus of the students, and the commitment and professionalism of the staff.
The two schools are thriving, and I thank the leadership team of Executive Principal, Peter Rogerson, International Principal, Yanni Galanis, and Chinese Principal, Bryan Gao.
Haileybury Senior School Tianjin delivers the Victorian Certificate of Education for students in Years 11 and 12 and the Gaokao Chinese Certificate. The results in both certificates have been excellent. In last year’s VCE, 105 students graduated with a median ATAR of 79 and 90% of graduates then come to study at Australian universities.
It is pleasing to see the Australian international student sector bouncing back. This is particularly important for Victoria where international education is the state’s largest export. Later this year, we will welcome many of the HSST graduates to Melbourne as they commence their studies.
As with all good schools, the co-curricular program at HSST and THES is important for developing well-rounded students. I attended a wonderful Junior School and Middle School Chinese language and culture festival and started the House cross country event. House activities are an important part of the boarding school environment and culture.
It has also been an exciting time in Melbourne in the co-curricular space with the culmination of the summer sports season, the performance of the exceptional City campus senior school play, a wonderful spring concert in the quadrangle, the hosting of the Victorian Pipes & Drums Championships and the always extraordinary Aria Night to be held tonight.
I thank all the Haileybury staff for their commitment to the co-curricular program which provides such extraordinary opportunities for students.
Derek Scott
CEO | Principal
