Principal’s Office: In Conversation with Headmaster Mr Paul Wickes of Malvern College Hong Kong
Malvern College Hong Kong has established itself as a leading international school in the region, known for its holistic education, strong pastoral care, and commitment to nurturing independent, forward-thinking students. Recently named Hong Kong International School of the Year in the Ritzy Hong Kong Education Awards 2025–2026, the school continues to stand out for its innovative approach and thriving school community.
We spoke with Headmaster Mr Paul Wickes about how the school develops confident, compassionate, and globally minded learners ready to thrive both within the school and beyond.
Q1. Malvern College Hong Kong aims to develop independent, forward-thinking individuals grounded in strong character and compassion. How do your British-style pastoral care system and House-based structure support this vision in students’ daily lives?
The British-style pastoral care system and House-based structure are central pillars in nurturing well-rounded, independent, and compassionate students.
The House system fosters a strong sense of identity, belonging, and community, where every student feels valued. House Peer Leaders act as role models, guiding younger pupils and helping them develop confidence, responsibility, and respect.
Student-led CCAs further enhance independence and initiative. By organising and leading activities, students learn to collaborate, make decisions, and support their peers — all aligned with Malvern’s commitment to character and compassion.
A dedicated Learning Enhancement Team and access to counsellors provide academic and emotional support when needed. Together, these elements form a comprehensive support system that nurtures resilience, wellbeing, and strong character.
Q2. Your mission emphasises identifying and nurturing each pupil’s potential. How do programmes such as the Gifted & Talented Mentorship, super curriculum and enrichment activities help personalise learning and unlock students’ passions?
Personalised learning is at the heart of Malvern College Hong Kong’s philosophy.
A dedicated academic enrichment team, led by the Director of Academic Enrichment, identifies high-potential pupils through assessments, observation, and teacher feedback. Many of these students become academic scholars, unlocking opportunities to challenge and extend their abilities.
In the classroom, differentiated learning ensures students are appropriately stretched without feeling overwhelmed. Beyond the classroom, enrichment programmes and the super curriculum — including competitions such as Tournament of Minds, the Aston & Wheeler Bennett Societies, and international contests — encourage curiosity and global awareness.
Leadership opportunities like the Yale and Harvard Young Leadership conferences help students develop confidence, initiative, and ambition. These programmes collectively empower students to explore their passions, develop strengths, and grow into inquisitive, self-driven learners.
Q3. Holistic education is central to the Malvern philosophy. In what ways do Entrepreneurial Education, leadership opportunities and co-curricular activities work together to build creativity, resilience and a global mindset?
Holistic education is a defining feature of Malvern College Hong Kong, where academic excellence is complemented by experiences that foster creativity, resilience, and global-mindedness.
Entrepreneurial Education encourages students to innovate, problem-solve, and take initiative. Leadership opportunities — from student council roles to leading CCAs — build confidence, responsibility, and collaborative skills.
The extensive CCA programme nurtures teamwork, perseverance, and personal growth. Global opportunities, including international exchanges and Round Square participation, broaden perspectives and cultural understanding.
The Malvern Signature Programme integrates leadership development, extracurricular engagement, and international exposure, preparing students to become adaptable, socially responsible leaders ready to make a global impact.
Q4. Outdoor and Environmental Education plays a key role in shaping Malvernians. How do experiences like Forest-Beach School and Duke of Edinburgh support your commitment to character development, sustainability and global citizenship?
Outdoor and Environmental Education are vital in shaping well-rounded students with strong character, environmental awareness, and global citizenship.
Curriculum-linked excursions, such as the Year 9 marine science trip to Ko Lanta, immerse students in hands-on learning about oceanography and coral propagation, reinforcing their understanding of ecology and sustainability.
The Forest-Beach School, the only programme of its kind in Hong Kong and led by Asia’s sole Level 4 qualified practitioner, fosters curiosity, resilience, leadership, and environmental stewardship through nature-based, play-led learning.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award challenges students beyond their comfort zones, helping them develop perseverance, teamwork, and leadership skills. Together, these initiatives instil respect for the environment and a strong sense of global responsibility.
Q5. With a growing international network across the UK, Egypt, China and Hong Kong, how do cross-campus collaborations and exchange programmes strengthen your school community and broaden students’ understanding of the world?
Cross-campus collaborations and exchange programmes significantly enhance both student learning and school culture.
Initiatives like Malvern Mingle, connecting campuses in Hong Kong, Chengdu, and Tokyo, promote cross-cultural friendships and understanding. Summer school programmes with Malvern College UK immerse students in new learning environments and global perspectives.
As a Round Square candidate school, Malvern participates in international conferences, service projects, and collaborative online initiatives, helping students engage with peers worldwide on real-world challenges.
Staff benefit from global collaboration too; the Maths Hub connects teachers across campuses to share best practices and innovative teaching strategies, directly enriching student experiences.
These programmes foster an interconnected community, preparing students to thrive in a globalised world.
Q6. Malvern College Hong Kong has been honoured as Hong Kong International School of the Year in the Ritzy Hong Kong Education Awards 2025–2026. What does this recognition mean to your school community?
This recognition is deeply meaningful. While awards are not the purpose of education, being named Hong Kong International School of the Year affirms the dedication of our teachers, our outstanding pastoral care, and the school’s culture of innovation — particularly in experiential learning.
It celebrates the collective efforts of students, staff, and parents, and motivates the school to continue creating an inspiring, high-quality environment where every pupil can thrive and achieve their potential.
