Year 13 Graduation

The passage of time is like a song; generation after generation of Harrow Beijing students have gathered knowledge, forged friendships, and grown, each step embodying the intertwining of hard work and dreams. Since its establishment in 2005, Harrow Beijing has sent 18 graduating classes to further their studies at the world’s top universities. Outstanding Harrovians can be found all over the world, excelling in various fields and making significant contributions to the advancement of their professions.

In the blink of an eye, Harrow Beijing’s 59 outstanding graduates of the class of 2024 have also reached an important milestone in their journey of growth. They are about to venture into a broader world, continuing to write their remarkable life stories.

The graduates of Harrow Beijing’s class of 2024 have achieved remarkable success in this year’s university application season. They received a total of 284 admission offers from the world’s top universities, including offers from the UK’s G5 super-elite universities, the top 50 comprehensive universities in the United States, Canada’s top 3 universities, and other top 30 universities worldwide. Additionally, they were awarded scholarships totaling over 14 million RMB, delivering an outstanding performance with exceptional results.

Headmaster’s Letter to the Class of 2024

– Mr Phil Akerman

“Graduation ceremonies hold profound significance. They mark the culmination of your incredible journey from childhood to adulthood, celebrating your commitment and achievements. We marvel at the transformation that has taken place; the knowledge, skills and character development witnessed in each of you. 

During this day, we commemorate not only your successes but also the collective support of your parents, family, teachers, and the entire Harrow Beijing community. With the famous saying, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, we know this proverbial “village” has nurtured and guided you, fostering an environment where you have thrived and prepared for new horizons.

Whilst Graduation is a moment to look back in time and reflect on the successes of the past, it is also a moment to point towards the future. 

As each of you steps into the unknown future, we hope you remember the parallels to timeless tales like ‘The Hobbit’, where venturing beyond familiar shores promises both challenges and treasures. To embrace this uncertainty with courage, knowing you carry the values and experiences of Harrow Beijing and remain supported by a community eager to celebrate your milestones and share in your future achievements.

It has been an honour to serve as your Headmaster this year. I wish you every success in your future endeavours. Embrace the journey with hope and determination, knowing that the lessons and the courage learned here will guide you towards a future rich with possibilities. We celebrate today not only in recognition of your accomplishments but also in anticipation of the positive impact you will make in your communities.”

Linda Z, Head Girl

“As we celebrate our achievements today, let us remember that we did not reach this milestone alone, and humility is to acknowledge the people who have helped us and be thankful. Our families, teachers, and friends, have all dedicated their time and effort to helping us to achieve our goals. Their support, guidance, and belief in us have been the foundation for shaping who we are and preparing us to face life’s opportunities. Humility reminds us that no one is perfect and that there is always room for progress; and to view challenges and failures as opportunities for improvement rather than setbacks. Everyone will make mistakes, and being humble will encourage us to embrace criticism as the potential for growth and becoming a better person. Humility also encourages us to seek new challenges and new opportunities, whilst  taking risks with passion. The choices you make as we move on, might turn out to be something spectacular. But, you will never know if you don’t make to first move to try. Humility keeps us grounded, reminding us that we are always students of life, with endless opportunities to grow. As we move forward from Harrow Beijing, let’s carry this lesson with us, allowing it to guide us in becoming compassionate, respectful, and truly remarkable individuals. As we step foot from Harrow Beijng and embark on our varied  and parted journeys into the next chapter of our lives, let humility be a part of you and be humble when facing new surprises.”

Adrien Z, Head Boy

“Honour is more than just a word; In 2014, exactly a decade ago, I was sitting down there with the audience as a young Prep student, clueless about the significance of such core value. Throughout the years growing up here, I’ve assimilated just enough to become an honourable graduate of Harrow Beijing, and I’m certain that all of you are as well. Honour is the bedrock upon which integrity, respect, and dignity are built. Honour means living in accordance with our highest values, acting with honesty and fairness, and upholding a standard of excellence that is unwavering, even when no one is watching. In Harrow Beijing, our school, we are constantly reminded that honour is not merely about personal glory but about contributing to the greater good, in this case, our houses. It’s about making choices that reflect our best selves and inspire those around us to do the same. Honour manifests in the everyday acts of kindness and fairness we show to one another—whether it’s standing up against bullying, helping a classmate in need. In the face of challenges, honour provides a compass that guides us through uncertainty. It reminds us to stand firm in our convictions and to act with courage and integrity, even when it’s difficult. As we reach beyond the biggest milestone of our lives, let us hold fast to the principle of honour, allowing it to steer us toward actions that we can be proud of. I hope that when we leave Harrow Beijing today, we can carry the torch of honour high, illuminating our paths and the paths of the fellow Harrovians around us. Together, let us build a future that is not only successful but also honourable in every sense. “

Romain Rolland once said, “Joy is only found in creation.” Congratulations to all the graduates. May they keep a heart full of creativity, continually explore and innovate, and harvest abundant joy and achievement on their journey of pursuing dreams!