How an Outstanding British Education Prepares Young People for a Global Future

The event brought together influential voices from the British and international education community to explore how a world-class British education equips young people not only for academic success, but for meaningful futures in an increasingly interconnected and fast-changing world.

The evening featured keynote speeches by William Lawrenson, Deputy Consul General at the British Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City, and Dr Anne Cotton, Head of School, King's College School, Wimbledon and Honorary Principal of King’s College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City.

In his address, Mr Lawrenson encouraged families to view education as a long-term strategic investment rather than simply a pathway to examination results.

“Education is not a local decision or a single examination result, but a strategic choice.”

He highlighted how the British education pathway helps shape opportunities far beyond university entry, preparing young people not only for the age of 18, but for life at 25, 30, and beyond. His remarks reflected the growing importance of developing globally minded, adaptable individuals who are able to thrive in an ever-evolving international landscape.

Building on this perspective, Dr Anne Cotton shared the educational philosophy that has defined King’s for nearly 200 years. She spoke about the responsibility of schools not only to cultivate academic excellence, but also to nurture character, compassion and leadership.

“Not just taking opportunities, but making them.”

At the heart of her keynote was the belief that an outstanding education should empower young people to become visionary individuals capable of creating opportunities for themselves and contributing positively to the wider world. This philosophy continues to shape the approach of King’s College School Wimbledon and now forms the foundation of King’s College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City.

The event concluded with a dynamic panel discussion moderated by educational leaders and alumni who reflected on their own experiences of British education and its long-term impact on their personal and professional journeys. The panel featured Kieran McLaughlin, Founding Head of School of King’s College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City, alongside distinguished alumni including:

• Jenny Bui, Founder & CEO of HIO – AI-Driven Home Care Services, graduate of King's College London

• Nam Doan, graduate of University College London

• Ryan Duy Luong, graduate of Imperial College London

Through their diverse experiences across entrepreneurship, corporate leadership and innovation, the speakers illustrated how a British education fosters intellectual curiosity, confidence, adaptability and a global outlook - qualities increasingly essential for future generations.

The dialogue marked another meaningful milestone in bringing the heritage and educational excellence of King’s to Vietnam. As King’s College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City prepares to welcome its founding pupils, the event reinforced the school’s commitment to offering an authentic British education that prepares young people not only for academic achievement, but for “the world beyond”.