Dear Parents and Guardians,
As we throw open the gates of Dulwich College Seoul and start a fresh new academic year, I extend a warm and hearty welcome to all of you. Summer’s interlude has concluded, the corridors are bustling with activity, and the familiar hum of laughter and learning fills the air once again. To our returning students and staff, welcome back to your second home; to our new faces, welcome to our wonderful Dulwich community.
While many of us were enjoying a restful summer, our campus was anything but dormant. The building was filled with construction activity and workers completing several major improvements to our facilities before the doors opened for the start of term.
The standout feature among our summer’s transformations is our brand new IB centre. Designed specifically for our IB students, this spacious haven marries comfort with academia, featuring a welcoming coffee bar and versatile study spaces. Its strategic location, offering convenient access to both our University and Careers Counselling offices and the adjoining Senior School library, promises to make it an indispensable hub for our IB students and an aspirational space for younger Senior School students. Whether you’re seeking inspiration from a book, guidance from a counsellor, or simply a comforting cup of coffee, the IB centre is poised to be a nurturing home-away-from-home, fostering growth and success.
Not to be outdone by its new neighbour, our Senior School Library has also been completely overhauled, boasting beautiful floor-to-ceiling walk-through bookshelves. But the true gem is the addition of a small amphitheatre, affectionately dubbed “Shackleton Stadium.” Named in honour of one of our four Houses, Sir Ernest Shackleton was an illustrious alumnus of our founding school, Dulwich College in London. Seamlessly adjoined with the IB Centre, these two spaces forge a versatile learning environment, nurturing creativity and intellectual curiosity.
Another enhancement to greet you as you step through our doors is the relocation of our reception desk to a more convenient position facing the front entrance. In its former place, we have carefully crafted a seating and waiting area that’s more than just a place to rest one’s feet. Designed in the elegant style of traditional Korean “dancheong” roof painting, this space is a graceful nod to the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, resonating with a blend of heritage and modernity. The intricate patterns and vibrant colours not only provide a visual delight but also serve as a symbol of our commitment to embracing both our local culture and international identity. It’s a fusion that reflects the heart of Dulwich College Seoul, welcoming all to gather, connect, and feel at home.
In place of the old spiral staircase that once connected the 1st floor to the B1 Atrium, we proudly introduce the “Dulwich Drop,” a twisting slide suitable for all ages. I can personally attest that it’s even accommodating to very big and tall Heads of College! To truly capture the magic of the “Dulwich Drop,” mere words may fall short. I invite you to enjoy this special video, which offers a time-lapse view of its construction. Our brave and dedicated members of staff conducted the important and rigorous testing process. Their selfless commitment to ensuring safety (and having a rather good time in the process) is captured for posterity.
The Making of the “Dulwich Drop” at Dulwich College Seoul
I’m pleased to welcome Peter Poulton back to Dulwich College Seoul as our new Director of Sport. Peter’s previous experience with us and his extensive knowledge of the Dulwich network make him a valuable addition to our community. His vision for 2023/24 in Physical Education (PE) and Sport emphasises inclusivity and offers an expanded range of sporting opportunities both locally and globally. With a focus on fostering a holistic approach, creating pathways of opportunity, and embracing connections through our affiliations like FOBISIA, Peter’s leadership is set to take our sporting programmes to new heights. To learn more about our innovative direction in PE and Sport, please visit the Whole School section of this E-update.
For those who have recently joined our Dulwich family, I warmly extend an invitation to our New Parent Coffee Morning on Friday 1 September, from 8.30am to 9.30am in the B1 College Atrium. Stepping into a new community can be both exciting and daunting, but a friendly face and a good cup of coffee can do wonders to set you at ease. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet key members of the College Leadership Team and start connecting with other parents. This informal gathering is more than just an introduction; it’s a welcome into a network of support, collaboration, and friendship.
Please join us at our annual Welcome Back Picnic, scheduled for Friday 8 September 2022, from 3.30 to 7.00pm at the College Field. There will be shade tents to sit under, several food and drink vendors providing snacks, and our students will provide live music from a busking stage. Sustainability, safety, and community spirit guide our celebration, so please bring reusable utensils, and kindly consider carpooling or use public transportation. More details can be found in the whole school section of this E-update. I look forward to seeing you there!
Today, I dropped by the House Tug of War in the Gym, and what an electric atmosphere it was! The roars of encouragement, the determined faces, and the spirited tugs all combined to create quite a riveting display. Many parents were there to cheer on their children and some even joined in for the parents’ competition! A special thank you to all who came, participated, and made it an unforgettable experience.
As we look ahead, the calendar is brimming with exciting events and opportunities that span the globe. From the Dulwich Adventurous Journeys exploring wilderness both at home and abroad, to the Dulwich Festival of Music in Suzhou, the Dulwich Shakespeare Festival in Beijing, and the Dulwich Olympiad in Singapore, this year is shaping up to be one filled with creativity, exploration, and achievement. These are but a few of the highlights that await us.
After a time when our reach was limited, these international events signal a reconnection with our broader Dulwich family of schools. Thank you for being a part of the Dulwich College Seoul community and I look forward to seeing you around campus!
With my best wishes,
Mr Guðmundur Hegner Jónsson