Scholarship | At Harrow Beijing, Every Talent Deserves Recognition – Celebrating Holistic Education with the 20th Anniversary Scholarship

For two decades, Harrow Beijing has upheld holistic education as its guiding light, illuminating the path for every student’s diverse development.

On the occasion of our 20th anniversary, we are launching a special scholarship program to honor students who relentlessly pursue excellence in academics, sports, and performing arts. These scholars are not only top achievers but also embody Harrow’s core values and contribute to the school community. When academic rigor, athletic passion, and artistic brilliance intertwine, we witness the true essence of holistic education.

A Moment of Glory – Live from the Award Ceremony

Three Dimensions of Holistic Education: Academics, Character, and Practical Engagement

In the vast ocean of academia, awardees must demonstrate outstanding academic performance with A to A* grades across all subjects or rank among the top students in their year. Additionally, a minimum of 95% annual attendance is required to reflect their commitment to learning. On the sports field, competitive spirit is as crucial as academic achievement—these students not only contribute as key players in school teams but also maintain balanced academic progress. For those passionate about performing arts, talent must be backed by solid expertise—achieving A or A* in drama, music, or related subjects, along with prestigious certifications from institutions such as the ABRSM and the LAMDA. Through their artistry, they showcase Harrow students’ creativity to the world.

Scholarship selection goes far beyond mere academic comparison—it is a comprehensive evaluation of the ‘Harrow DNA.’ Academic directors assess students’ intellectual growth through four annual academic reports, while heads of year review house points and disciplinary records to reflect candidates’ embodiment of ‘Courage, Honor, Humility, and Fellowship.’ Shortlisted candidates then undergo a rigorous selection process: meticulously crafted application letters, balancing logic and emotion, serve as a deep self-reflection; subject panel interviews challenge them to articulate their visions; and performing arts candidates must have demonstrated their talents on stage, proving their skills to expert judges.

At the award ceremony, Mr. Alastair Land, Head Master of Harrow UK, was present to witness this significant moment. With a history spanning 453 years, Harrow School shares deep-rooted traditions, core values, and a common future vision with Harrow Beijing. Built on these principles, Harrow’s holistic education system fosters curiosity, fuels academic passion, and cultivates leadership. These values are deeply embedded in Harrow Beijing’s philosophy, ensuring that students not only achieve academic excellence but also develop into outstanding leaders in a globalized world. At Harrow Beijing, we firmly believe that true excellence is the harmonious resonance of academic achievement, practical engagement, and strong values.

Elang Z – Joined Harrow Beijing in Year 5

From Chess to Science Exploration – Discovering a Multi-Dimensional Growth Path at Harrow

“At Harrow, leadership isn’t about waiting to be chosen—it’s about taking action when opportunity arises.” In Year 9, Elang Z took his first leadership step through chess. The club he founded not only taught strategic thinking but also sparked his enthusiasm for interdisciplinary learning: “This year, I established a Science Club, bringing together physics and biology enthusiasts to solve academic challenges just like we strategize in chess.”

At Harrow Beijing, we encourage self-exploration and all-round development. Students have the opportunity to start their own clubs, deeply pursue their interests, and transform them into meaningful projects.

Excelling in his GCSEs with seven Grade 9s, three As, and one A*, Elang credits the robust academic support at Harrow: “There’s no shortcut to high scores, but Harrow teachers turn ‘hard work’ into ‘smart strategies.’” He particularly appreciates their dedication: “Whether during a 10-minute break or late-night emails, they’re always available to help.” He recalls his university counselor’s feedback on his A-Level subject choices: “‘This is the most challenging combination, but it matches your potential perfectly.’ That moment reassured me that Harrow truly respects each student’s individuality.”

From scoring 113 in TOEFL at age 14 to attaining a Level 7 LAMDA public speaking qualification, Elang attributes his growth to Harrow’s English immersion: “Discussing quantum mechanics in class, planning events in clubs—this environment makes English second nature.” Even after switching from piano to water polo, he continues to embody Harrow’s values: “Leadership isn’t a title; it’s like chess—seeing the bigger picture and creating value for the team.”

Michael S – Joined Harrow Beijing in Year 5

Finding the Power of ‘Being Seen’ in Small-Group Teaching

“In my previous school, I felt like one of the ‘silent majority’ in class.” Michael S confesses, “But Harrow’s small class sizes changed everything—teachers notice every student’s struggles, even anticipating my questions before I ask.” This sense of ‘being seen’ transformed him from an average student into an academic role model with all A/A* grades.

Michael believes that the key to high GCSE scores is ‘initiative and persistence.’ “As long as I ask, Harrow teachers are always willing to explain difficult concepts in multiple ways.” He values the school’s precise academic support: “Past papers and syllabus breakdowns serve as a clear navigation chart, helping me focus my efforts.” Excelling in IGCSE English Literature (A*) and TOEFL (110), he also channels his passion as the student leader of the Fitness Club: “I want to use scientific training methods to help others find confidence.”

From struggling with English in Year 5 to mastering academic writing, Michael credits Harrow’s immersive environment: “Weekly writing tasks, classroom drama performances, even casual conversations in the dining hall—all these strengthened my language skills.” His Grade 8 Royal Academy piano certification reflects his commitment beyond academics: “Playing the piano taught me patience in breaking down goals—just like problem-solving in exams.”

Linette D – Joined Harrow Beijing in Kindergarten

Finding Confidence and Growth on Harrow’s Stage

“From my first musical in Year 5, I knew Harrow’s stage would change me,” recalls Linette D, a recipient of the 20th Anniversary Performing Arts Scholarship. Guided by drama teacher Mr. Duff, she evolved from a novice to a seasoned performer: “He taught us not only vocal and movement control but also that ‘mistakes are part of growth.’” Now preparing for her LAMDA Grade 5 musical theatre exam, she refines her choreography with Miss Yan: “Every movement has an emotional logic, deepening my understanding of performance.”

Linette’s experience in Guys and Dolls marked the beginning of her artistic journey: “Guys and Dolls was a production that captivated me completely, inspiring me to join West Side Story last year as a dancer under Miss Yan’s guidance. Now, I am preparing for the school’s production of Alice in Wonderland and eagerly anticipate delivering a stellar performance. Her time on stage at Harrow Beijing has profoundly enhanced her professionalism, deepening her understanding of stage presence, choreography design, and the significance of teamwork. “Rehearsals have strengthened my discipline and sense of responsibility, while each performance has boosted my confidence and ability to command the stage. Every time I step under the spotlight, it becomes another milestone in my growth as a performer.”

Seko H – Joined Harrow Beijing in Year 10

Forging Courage in the Pool, Drawing Strength from the Team

“Harrow’s swimming lanes are more than a physical track—they’re a path of personal growth.” When asked why he chose Harrow Beijing, this young swimmer highlights the coaching team’s expertise: “Coach Pinto immediately spots technical flaws, adjusts our strokes to prevent injury, and analyzes elite swimmers’ footage—this ‘microscope + telescope’ training helps me improve daily.”

His progress was tested at the Beijing All-Star Championships, where, at just 15, he competed against 16–18-year-olds. “It was the toughest race I’ve faced, but my coach provided two keys: tailored training plans and post-race psychological coaching.” He returned with two bronze medals, but what he values most is the unwavering team spirit at Harrow: “Continuous training keeps us competition-ready, but the encouragement from teammates means more than any medal.”

Twenty years is enough for a sapling to grow into a towering tree and for an educational vision to take root as a tangible path of growth. At Harrow Beijing, academic rigor forms the foundation, athletic passion weaves the framework, and artistic creativity flourishes like branches and leaves. Nurturing it all is the ever-present spirit of Courage, Honor, Humility, and Fellowship—the fertile soil from which all possibilities arise. When explorers in the lab, warriors on the field, and dreamers on the stage walk side by side, we witness not only individual excellence but also a thriving educational community that, with both expertise and heart, cultivates each child’s talent into a landscape uniquely their own.