Leadership roles

Ellie Alchin, Director of Teaching and Learning, Dover Campus

This is an incredible place to work. Having worked in a number of different (and excellent) international schools around the world I can say hand on heart, that the way in which the mission informs what we do and how we do it here is pretty unique. 

The mission has both shaped my values and now reflects them. I am in education because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students, and the difference I want to make is very much in line with the UWC mission of uniting people to bring about more peaceful and sustainable futures. In fact, I firmly believe that education is the only way to do this.

I cherish working with thoughtful, committed colleagues at UWCSEA who approach their work in a spirit of curiosity and craftsmanship. Whether it is a highly collaborative relationship with my counterpart at our sister campus, supportive relationships with academic and administrative leaders here at Dover, or working closely alongside teams of teachers as they develop teaching practice, I am constantly struck by the energy, capacity, creativity and commitment of the people with whom I work. 

Our students are of course central to our work. The opportunity to engage with students, and especially our national committee scholars, is an absolute highlight of working here. 

This is a can-do place where we aspire to genuinely walk the walk and not just talk the talk. There are incredible opportunities for professional learning and leadership (both formally and informally). Yes, you will work very hard, and being surrounded by lots of people who are very good at what they do can be daunting, but you will be well supported and the opportunities for professional growth are amazing.

Dr Jensen Hjorth, Former High School Vice Principal and IB Diploma Programme Coordinator, Dover Campus

I've always held the belief that too often we are quick to judge others based on superficial appearances and stereotypes and that if we just took more time to understand others and empathise with them we would come to recognise the great strengths that diverse communities posses. I think this is what underpins the UWC mission, it has a higher purpose, one that has the so much potential to have a positive impact on the world. It gives me great satisfaction to know that I am contributing to this and supporting others as they develop a deeper understanding of global issues and empathy for others.

I've gained so much from my time with UWCSEA. I've been pushed by colleagues and students into genuinely reflecting on my own beliefs and there is little doubt my perspective and view of the world has changed enormously. I've learned from others how to tackle hard issues while still demonstrating empathy for alternate points of view. My educational philosophy has developed as I have gained understanding of how students can be significant change agents if engaged and supported in positively advocating for their point of view.

UWCSEA is a very unique place to be. Its purpose and direction is not just printed on brochures; it lives its mission everywhere; from leadership decisions and class room planning to parent engagement and student activities. It takes bold steps to enact the mission often forgoing more traditional decisions that a school might be expected to take. Students are highly engaged and involved and have a genuine sense of responsibility for the shape of the world. UWCSEA is fortunate that it attracts teachers who are leaders in the educational field. We are fortunate that colleagues will challenge your thinking but will support your growth. Whether you join us as a student or as a member of staff, you will learn enormously from the experience of being at UWCSEA.

Elizabeth Bray, Head of UWCSEA Dover

Elizabeth (aka Lizzie) was appointed as Head of Dover Campus in August 2018. Lizzie has held several posts since joining the College as a Science and Mathematics teacher in 1996. She led the Middle School as Principal from 2015–2018, and also co-led the Curriculum Articulation Project working with teachers from K1 to Grade 12 across the Dover and East campuses. She was elected by the teaching staff on Dover to serve on the Board of Governors from 2006-2010. Since leading Dover Campus through the CIS-WASC Accreditation process in 2010 she has served as a member of CIS-WASC Visiting Teams accrediting international schools in South East Asia. Prior to joining UWCSEA she taught in Canada, the Dominican Republic and Bahrain. Originally from Montreal, Canada, Elizabeth speaks English and French fluently. She holds a BSc (Geological Sciences) from McGill University and an MSc (Science Education) from Oregon State University.

In her spare time Elizabeth enjoys swimming, yoga and long walks with her husband Peter and their sons, Max and Leo.

Sinéad Collins, Director of Engagement and External Relations, UWC South East Asia

Sinéad Collins joined UWCSEA in a dual-campus role as Director of Communications and Marketing in September 2011, moving into her current role as Director of Engagement and External Relations in April 2019.

Sinéad began her career as a music teacher in London, having completed an MA in Education and Music at the Institute of Education, University of London. She then returned to Ireland to work in communications and marketing for the Irish Arts Council, where she managed a concert series and supported local communities in building audiences for live music performance. In 2003, Sinéad move to Beijing, China, where she worked in cross-cultural communications, supporting senior Chinese business professionals in making the transition to multi-cultural working environments. In 2005, Sinéad joined the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) as the Admissions Manager, before being appointed Director of Communications, overseeing admissions, communications and publications.

Sinéad is married to Gary, a musician and teacher, and they have three children, Niamh, Hugh and Cathal.

Nicholas Alchin, Head of College

The usual thing here is to mention our students - who are indeed wonderful. But all young people are wonderful - whatever their circumstances' that's the gift of being young. So in this we are not special. But we are special because of those who make up our community - our teachers and support colleagues. In my time here I have begun to appreciate the delicate balance between individuals and groups. Individuals can inspire and lead, and are necessary to catalyse change; Groups are how the change happens. So while we rightly admire the Nelson Mandelas and Lee Kuan Yews of this world, we shouldn't neglect the millions of unknown but critical people they lead - they also made change happen. And so this fills me with optimism and hope; maybe some of our students will be famous change-makers - but it's not the famous bit that is important. 

UWCSEA is a school which has an extraordinary ambition - in the sense that it is full to the brim with extraordinary people working together for a noble end. Compared to any other school I've work in, I feel blessed beyond all measure.