Great Legacy, Great Future! Celebrating 20 Glorious Years of Harrow Beijing!

On June 22nd, under bright sunshine and a gentle breeze, Harrow Beijing proudly marked its momentous 20th anniversary.

At Harrow Beijing that has nurtured countless dreams and personal growth, alumni, parents, students, and guests from across the country gathered to celebrate a defining milestone. More than just a tribute to the past two decades, the event became a grand reunion of Harrovians, uniting shared passion and vision.

A Moment of Gratitude, A Future of Promise

At 3:25 PM, the celebration officially began with a spirited opening performance featuring Chinese drummers, the Harrow Beijing Orchestra, and Choir. The student hosts then took to the stage, followed by the powerful debut of the new AISL Harrow School 2025 Branding Video — an inspiring glimpse into the future of Harrow education.

Four distinguished guests delivered powerful speeches, extending heartfelt congratulations on Harrow Beijing’s 20th anniversary and hopes for its continued success:

Mr. Daniel Chiu
Founder of Asia International School Limited

“We did not want children to study abroad too early. We hoped they could stay grounded in China during their formative years, develop cultural awareness, and build their identity.”

Mr. Chiu reflected on Harrow Beijing’s founding and its expansion into 12 campuses across major Chinese cities. He emphasized that student growth and success are the truest measures of a school — and the part he treasures most. “Twenty years may not be a long time, but for us, it is just the beginning. I truly believe that in the next 20, 40, even 60 years, Harrow Beijing will continue to contribute to society and the future of education.”

Dr. Rosanna Wong, DBE, JP
Chairman of Asia International School Limited

She distilled the essence of Harrow education into three words: Privilege, Challenge, and Values. More than academic excellence, Harrow strives to cultivate courageous, humble, and socially responsible global citizens.

Distinguished government representative praised Harrow Beijing as a leading international school that has actively explored the integration of international and local educational models, contributing significantly to Beijing’s international education development. “We hope Harrow Beijing will take its 20th anniversary as a new starting point — continuing its tradition of excellence, embracing innovation, and cultivating more high-caliber talents with global competence. We also look forward to its continued contribution to mutual understanding between Chinese and international education, and to Beijing’s role as a hub of open, world-class learning.”

Mr. Philip Akerman
Headmaster of Harrow Beijing

Headmaster Mr. Akerman opened his speech with a lyric by Jack Johnson: “It’s always better when we’re together.”

He remarked that this simple phrase captures the very essence of international education. “The excellence of Harrow students stems not only from our facilities or resources, but from the space we create to connect, to share ideas, to learn from each other, and to build a better future together.”

Following the speeches, Mr. Akerman and the guests gathered to cut the 20th-anniversary Birthday Cake. Amid fireworks and the symbolic release of house-colored rainbow streamers into the sky, the celebration officially began.

The anniversary stage was a vibrant celebration of artistry and passion, where age and grade knew no boundaries. From Early Years to Upper School, from LAMDA performances to Chinese drumming, instrumental ensembles, solo vocals, and mass choirs — students, teachers, and even parents shared the spotlight.

Each Harrovian under the lights became a vivid embodiment of holistic education in action.

The outdoor pitch transformed into a lively carnival wonderland: claw machine challenges, giant spinning wheels, basketball shooting games, and the ever-popular Summer Splash Pool Park kept students squealing with excitement. Even parents couldn’t resist joining the fun, as laughter filled every corner of campus.

What’s a celebration without a feast? Harrow Beijing launched a specially designed 20th-anniversary icecream — refreshing and filled with festive flair. The food court featured sizzling BBQ, fish and chips, cheesy pizzas, juicy burgers, and refreshing tea drinks. Beyond flavor, it fostered joyful connections. Hidden “surprise treats” awaited those who dared to explore!

From 0 to 20, from 2005 to 2025 — this nostalgic exhibition led visitors through Harrow Beijing’s most meaningful moments. Curated photos showcased the school’s evolution, academic highlights, vibrant events, and snapshots of student and faculty life.Wandering through the exhibit felt like stepping into a corridor of memory, where Harrow’s spirit was both visible and tangible.

The energy on the court matched that of the stage. Mixed teams of students, alumni, and parents battled it out in thrilling rounds of community basketball. Roars from the crowd echoed throughout the campus — it wasn’t just a game, but a celebration of community spirit and belonging.As for the champion? The loudest cheer surely gave it away.

In addition, a warm and meaningful Community Celebration was held in the school theatre as scheduled. Many outstanding Harrow Beijing alumni returned to campus and gathered alongside representatives from Asia International School Limited (AISL), Headmaster Mr. Philip Akerman, and Head of Upper School Ms. Shellie Gibbons. Together, they shared fond memories, reflected on their personal journeys, and witnessed the continued growth of their alma mater.

This moment of reunion not only highlighted the strong bonds among alumni but also reaffirmed the lasting cohesion and vitality of the Harrow community.

This celebration was not only a tribute to Harrow Beijing’s past achievements but also a bold declaration of shared commitment to the future.

We thank every Harrovian who poured heart and effort into this journey, and every guest who joined us in celebration. Standing at a new starting point, Harrow Beijing will continue to uphold holistic education as its guiding light, illuminating the path of growth for every student.

Together, let us look forward to an even brighter next twenty years.