The Principal of Oxford International College Brighton on a journey of growth and community
As I sit down to reflect on our first year at Oxford International College (OIC) Brighton, I’m struck by how exhilarating and rewarding this journey has been. In September 2023, we opened our doors as one of the only schools of its kind to launch in the UK last year, and what a year it has been. Opening a new college in the current educational climate is a daunting task, but the past 12 months have been filled with growth, of course some challenges, and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.
I always knew it would be an ambitious undertaking, but I never anticipated just how fast-paced it would be. From managing construction on our beautiful, historic campus to developing an outstanding curriculum, we’ve had our hands full from day one. The balancing act of overseeing practical projects, safeguarding, and creating a welcoming space for students was challenging but ultimately rewarding. Every new room we opened – whether it was an office or a new boarding house – brought a fresh wave of excitement.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of our first year has been building a strong sense of community. OIC Brighton is a global college in every sense, with students and families joining us from all over the world. Many of our parents are overseas, and fostering those relationships has been a priority for us. We’ve worked hard to make sure that families feel connected, whether through face-to-face meetings when they visit our campus or via regular online communications. I’ve had the privilege of meeting many of our parents in places like Hong Kong, and it’s always a magical moment to see those same families a few months later when they bring their children to our campus. The connection between the college and home is crucial, and it’s something we’ll continue to nurture.
For our students, this year has been about more than just academic achievement. They’ve been instrumental in shaping the culture of the college, and I’ve been continually impressed by their confidence and enthusiasm. There’s a strong sense of ownership among our students, and we’ve worked hard to ensure their voices are heard in shaping everything from our policies to traditions. A highlight for me was our first prize-giving ceremony at the end of the summer term. It felt momentous to be inventing traditions from scratch and celebrating not only academic achievements but also community spirit and kindness. These are the values that truly define our college.
Academically, I couldn’t be prouder of how our students have excelled. I vividly recall attending one of our Wednesday student lectures, where a Year 13 student delivered an astonishing presentation on symbiogenesis. It was a moment that captured the spirit of OIC Brighton – students pushing the boundaries of their knowledge, supported by passionate teachers and curious peers. Moments like these remind me why we do what we do.
As we move into our second year, we are excited to take our first cohort of Year 13 students through their A-levels and university applications. This group of students has set a high bar, and I know they will go on to achieve amazing things. Our college is growing too, with new A-level subjects, expanded boarding facilities, and a rapidly increasing student body. With that growth comes the challenge of maintaining the close-knit, innovative community we’ve built, and it’s something we’re committed to preserving.
At OIC Brighton, our focus remains on providing a transformative education. While academic excellence is at the heart of what we do, we believe that the personal development of our students is just as important. Our goal is to ensure that every student leaves us not only with great qualifications, but also with the resilience, kindness, and confidence to thrive in the wider world.
Looking back on this first year, I’m filled with pride – not just in what we’ve achieved but in the incredible students, parents, and staff who have come together to make OIC Brighton what it is today. The road ahead is full of exciting opportunities, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us all.
Find out more about OIC Brighton at its Open House event on Saturday 8th February.
To register, visit Oxford International College Brighton
