Strengthening OIC's Global Community Across Asia

Spanning Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong, her visit was not simply a series of events and presentations, but an opportunity to strengthen the relationships that sit at the heart of the College’s international community. 

For many families, the meetings provided a rare opportunity to speak openly and personally about their hopes, questions and ambitions for their children’s future. From conversations about boarding life and academic expectations to discussions around wellbeing, confidence and university preparation, the visit reflected the importance the College places on building trust and maintaining close connections with families at every stage of the student journey. 

 

Listening to Families in South Korea 

Her visit began in Seoul, where one-to-one meetings with current and prospective families created space for thoughtful and honest conversations about life at the College. 

Parents spoke openly about the challenges and excitement that come with sending children overseas to study, while newly enrolled students shared their anticipation about joining a new academic environment. Discussions ranged from subject choices and university aspirations to daily routines, pastoral care and adjusting to boarding life. 

Alongside family meetings, time was also spent with long-standing educational partners including People Loving, SAUK, UKEN and Queen’s Consulting. These relationships continue to play an important role in helping students and families navigate important educational decisions with confidence. 

A parent seminar hosted in Seoul focused on pathways into competitive medical schools and the broader opportunities available beyond the classroom. For many families, the session reinforced the value of a school environment that combines academic ambition with individual support and guidance. 

 

Building Meaningful Partnerships in China 

Across Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, conversations with students, parents and school leaders highlighted the growing interest in internationally focused education and the importance families place on both academic achievement and personal development. Time spent at NAS Beijing Shunyi also strengthened connections with the wider Nord Anglia Education community and opened discussions around future collaboration opportunities. 

Shanghai offered some of the most direct engagement with families during the trip. A livestream hosted by London Family Office attracted hundreds of viewers, with parents raising questions about academics, boarding life, university preparation and student wellbeing. The level of engagement reflected not only strong interest in UK education, but also the importance families place on understanding how schools support students as individuals. 

Later family gatherings in Shanghai created a more personal setting for conversations about student progression, confidence, independence and the opportunities available through research, super-curricular activities and wider enrichment programmes. Parents shared reflections on their children’s growth since joining the College, particularly in terms of maturity, resilience and self-belief. 

Visits to UKBS, Jianhe Education and NACIS Shanghai further reinforced the value of long-term educational partnerships built on trust, communication and shared aspirations for students. 

In Guangzhou, the focus shifted towards collaboration and future development. Meetings and training sessions with regional partners explored how schools and organisations can work together more effectively to support prospective families and students preparing for international study. 

A presentation delivered to students and parents at NAS Guangzhou Panyu provided another opportunity to answer questions directly and discuss the pathways available to ambitious students looking towards leading universities and future careers. 

 

Reconnecting with Community in Hong Kong 

The final stage of the visit took place in Hong Kong, where current families, alumni and prospective parents came together for a series of community events. 

One of the most significant moments was the first-ever parent gathering held in the city. More than simply an update event, the evening reflected the strength of the relationships that continue long after students arrive at school. 

Parents spoke candidly about their experiences, shared feedback and connected with one another as part of a growing international community. Discussions focused on recent university successes, developments within the Fusion curriculum and the ways students continue to grow academically and personally during their time at the College. 

The evening also welcomed OIC alumna Wing Yiu (Cheri) Cheng, whose reflections on her journey from school life to studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong offered reassurance and encouragement to both current and prospective families. 

The visit concluded at the Amber Global Education Expo, where conversations with prospective parents centred on future opportunities, academic pathways and preparation for competitive university courses, including medicine. 

 

A Commitment Beyond the Classroom 

Throughout the journey, one theme remained constant: the importance of relationships. 

Whether speaking with families considering international education for the first time or reconnecting with parents whose children are already thriving at school, the visit reflected a continued commitment to listening carefully, communicating openly and supporting students far beyond the classroom itself.