At Brighton College Vietnam, the educational journey is designed to foster both academic and personal growth. We recently spoke with Mr. Stephen Ashby, Head of Key Stage 2, about his philosophy and approach to education.

Mr. Ashby began his teaching career in Harrow, London, in 2009. Over the past 15 years, he has taught in Qatar, the UAE, Thailand, and now Vietnam. His diverse teaching experience has given him a deep understanding of the progression and demands across all year groups in Key Stage 2 (from Year 3 to Year 6).

• The “Can-Do” Classroom: Central to Mr Ashby’s teaching philosophy is the belief in a “can-do” classroom, where every pupil can succeed with the right support, encouragement, and opportunities. He strongly advocates for the power of “yet,” instilling a growth mindset in his pupils by encouraging them to view challenges as opportunities to learn.

•  Fostering a Love for Learning: Mr. Ashby’s goals for Key Stage 2 include enhancing academic achievement by fostering a love for learning and encouraging intellectual curiosity. He plans to integrate technology to make learning more engaging and to prepare students for the digital world. “Creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where every pupil feels valued and confident is essential to achieving these goals,” he notes.

• Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular activities are essential to Mr. Ashby’s holistic approach to education. These activities promote skills in teamwork, creativity, and resilience, as well as physical health and well-being. Brighton College Vietnam offers a variety of extracurricular activities to cater to varied interests and talents, from STEM clubs to arts and sports.

Mr. Stephen Ashby brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to holistic education to Brighton College Vietnam. His innovative approach and emphasis on fostering curiosity, confidence, and kindness align perfectly with the school’s core values, ensuring a bright future for all pupils.