At Wellington College Hangzhou, the world is never distant; it's always just one step away.
Last week, the 2025 Wellington College Hangzhou University Fair, themed 'From Hangzhou to the World: Step into Your Spotlight', officially opened. Nearly 80 top institutions from 12 countries, including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, Singapore and France, came together to provide pupils and parents with a multi-dimensional exploration of university pathways. This unprecedented event not only fostered dialogue in international education but also empowered pupils through immersive experiences, personalised guidance and forward-looking insights.
This on-site university fair could not have been so successful without the dedicated individuals who worked behind the scenes, including our university counsellors who organised the event, all the participating admissions officers, the alumni who shared their experiences, the pupils who provided translation support, and every pupil and parent who attended the event with eagerness and responsibility. Some admissions officers overcame jet lag to attend the fair so that our pupils and parents could learn more about their universities. Not only did the pupils enthusiastically raise their questions on-site, but also the parents of our lower and upper Sixth Form pupils and even the parents of our Junior High and Senior School pupils.
An opportunity to study abroad is not simply a change of location. It is a life-changing experience that brings forth a wealth of knowledge, understanding of the world and the chance to shape one's future. It is said that fortune favours the bold. With every small step taken towards one’s dream, we have every reason to believe that we are embracing a better future with more to look forward to.
Mario Sylvander
Director of Higher Education and Careers
Our recent University Fair engendered a vibrant exchange of ideas where pupils could explore their educational futures firsthand. The day began with two curated panel discussions tailored to different pupil groups. The first panel welcomed Grade 9 and Year 10 pupils, while the second engaged Grade 10, Year 11, and Lower Sixth Form pupils along with parents, providing appropriate guidance at each level.
These panels featured an array of global institutions representing diverse educational philosophies and specialisations. Comprehensive universities including Carleton University (Canada), University of Oregon (USA), University of Hong Kong, and Royal Holloway University of London shared their perspectives alongside specialised institutions such as University of the Arts London and Switzerland's EHL, renowned for hospitality and business education. This intentional variety illuminated the rich tapestry of higher education options available to our pupils.
Year 11 Steve and Lower Sixth Form Isabella served as our pupil moderators, demonstrating poise and aplomb as they facilitated meaningful dialogue between panellists and attendees. Through these discussions, pupils and parents gained valuable insights into how different institutions approach education, admissions and pupil development. Particularly valuable was the clear connection drawn between our pupils' current A-level studies and skill development and their future university applications.
The fair opened with theatrical flair as Welly, our school mascot, made a "surprise" appearance garnering spontaneous applause. The celebration included enthusiastic "fans" dashing between tables, launching confetti cannons, and exchanging high-fives to the aptly chosen soundtrack of "Graduate." Teachers Musa and Graham, playfully portraying "security guards", added their charm and dramatic flair to the festive opening. This spirited introduction established the perfect tone for a day focused on the bright futures awaiting our pupils.
After the productive morning sessions, our university guests enjoyed a unique dining experience at the Poolside Cafe, highlighted by a performance from our competition-winning artistic swimmers. The day culminated with an evening social gathering where our higher education counsellors joined admissions officers along the shores of West Lake, cementing professional relationships in one of Hangzhou's most beautiful settings.
The visiting admissions officers were effusive in their praise, specifically commending our pupils' thoughtful questions and confident interactions, the artistic swimming showcase, Welly's entertaining appearance and the exceptional service provided by our pupil volunteers throughout the event.
An undertaking like this required extraordinary collaboration across departments, and we extend gratitude to all colleagues whose professional support made this day possible. As we reflect on the success of our University Fair Event, we look forward to seeing how these connections translate into exciting opportunities and fulfilling university experiences for our pupils in the years ahead.
