From our Head of College

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Today, as we close the book on another fulfilling academic year, we commemorate the first year of the ‘post-pandemic’ era. Witnessing our school community come roaring back to life has been nothing short of spectacular. We have seen the resurgence of many of our cherished traditions – from concerts and sports events, to Adventurous Journeys, the Gala Dinner, and Founder’s Day, amongst others. These events have not only reignited our sense of community and joy but have also served as powerful reminders of the enduring and pioneering spirit intrinsic to our Dulwich family. 

On Wednesday, we celebrated the Year 6 Graduation. The students, brimming with anticipation and a touch of nostalgia, took their final steps across the stage as Primary School students. They bid a fond farewell to their familiar classrooms, teachers, and Primary School routines. We applauded their accomplishments and shared in their excitement for the next chapter of their academic journey. In August, they will return as Senior School students, ready to embrace new challenges, forge new and lasting friendships, and continue their pursuit of knowledge. It’s a major milestone, and I’m enormously proud of all of them.

It brings me great pleasure to highlight the extraordinary accomplishment of our Year 12 student, Andrea K. Last week, she represented us brilliantly at the esteemed Genius Olympiad 2023, held at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. Amid 688 high-calibre science projects from gifted young minds globally, Andrea’s project secured her the coveted ‘Grand 1st Prize’ in the Science Category. A hearty congratulations to Andrea, who, through this great achievement, has shone brightly as an inquirer, thinker, and risk-taker, embodying the very essence of an IB Learner. For those eager to learn more about her project, you can find additional details in the Whole School Section.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our parent group, the Friends of Dulwich (FoD), which has worked tirelessly to strengthen our community bonds through a host of events this year. From grand affairs like the Gala Ball and Winter Bazaar to regular local tours, cooking and flower arrangement classes, and monthly Social Coffee Mornings, they’ve provided wonderful opportunities for parents to engage and connect. Our staff were genuinely touched by the feast of food and drinks provided on Teacher and Staff Appreciation Day. The Used Uniform and Used Book Sales were a nod to our dedication to sustainability, encouraging reuse and recycling.

My specific thanks go to Co-Chairs Vicky and Helena, who have together provided a solid foundation for a resurgence of FoD activity post-pandemic with their strong leadership and clear vision. They are stepping down from their leadership roles but will remain in the organisation as committed members. I welcome and congratulate incoming Co-Chairs Susanna and Sunny, and I look forward to our close collaboration in the coming year ahead.

We’re thrilled to reveal some enhancements to our College over the summer, designed to enrich our students’ experience. From renovations in nine key areas including the main reception, nurse’s office, gym changing rooms and the Senior School library, to the exciting introduction of a slide from the foyer to the dining hall and a new IB Centre. This Centre, envisioned by award-winning architect John Hong, will provide a collaborative and relaxing space for our IBDP students, complete with flexible seating options and a student-managed coffee station. For an in-depth look at our summer works plan, please check out the full article in the Whole School Section.

The latest edition of our community newsletter, Dulwich Haru, was published today. Discover the passion that drives Vitus, a Year 5 student from Denmark, in his love for sports; delve into the world of our Economics Teacher, Antonia Snower, whose intriguing journey spans from our founding school, Dulwich College in London, to our campus, ignited by her early interest as a debater; and get to know Vincent Jong, a dedicated parent and chiropractor, whose commitment to our school started even before the building was completed. Each story beautifully highlights the diverse backgrounds and interests that make our Dulwich community so unique. Click here to enjoy these fascinating narratives.

Tomorrow, I’ll be catching a flight to Serbia to enjoy some much-needed family time before we go on our road trip across Croatia and Italy. To those among us embarking on new journeys, I wish you all the best in your upcoming adventures. For those who will be returning, I hope you have a restful break, recharge your batteries and come back ready for an exciting new academic year in August 2023. I look forward to the adventures that the academic year 2023-24 will bring!

With my best wishes,

Mr Guðmundur Hegner Jónsson

More Dulwich E-Updates