In the midst of June, as the farewell song played, a moment of celebration began. On 21^st June, inside Malvern College Chengdu’s Big School, 30 Upper Sixth Form students marked the successful completion of their academic journey with a memorable graduation ceremony. The event marked not only an ending, but a brand-new beginning. As proud Malvernians, these young adults, will set off from Chengdu to write their own legends on the world stage.

This year, the traditional Malvern Walk continued as always. Graduates, alongside the headmaster and guests, ceremoniously strolled through the familiar campus, with faculty and students offering warm applause and sincere blessings. At this moment, they carried not only the expectations of their alma mater but also a firm belief, striding confidently towards the next chapter of their lives.

The year’s 30 graduates have collectively received over 160 offers from world-renowned universities, including Imperial College London, University College London, and other British G5 institutions, as well as the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Among them, 69% of the graduates have been admitted to the top 50 universities in the QS World University Rankings. These achievements are the result of their hard work and are a testament to their growth at Malvern College Chengdu.

Special Blessings for the Class of 2025

Speech by Mr Michael Urquhart 

Headmaster of MCC

The ceremony began with a speech from Headmaster, Mr Michael Urquhart. He naturally introduced the central theme of his inspiring address — “Dreams and Aspirations.”

I urge you to uphold the vision of our founders by seeking, through the lessons you have learnt here, to eliminate injustice and conflict whenever you encounter them and to enhance the lives of those around you so that the world will be better through your actions.

Remember that wherever you go you will carry the name of Malvern; take care of that name and remember how others have enhanced it through their service and actions.

Thank you graduating class of 2025, it has been a real privilege and honour to be your Headmaster, and I wish you all every success in your future endeavours and look forward to seeing you again at our Alumni dinners either in Chengdu, London or Sydney.

—— Mr Michael Urquhart

Speech by Graduate Representatives

Tommy Zhang and Coco Liu

As the Head Boy and Girl for the 2024-25 academic year, Tommy and Coco began their speech with a touching rhetorical question: “525,600 minutes — how do you measure the time we’ve spent at MCC?”

They painted a vivid picture of their growth journey at Malvern College Chengdu, from the sparks of ideas in the laboratory to the sweat on the sports field, every moment has become a cherished note in the soundtrack of their youth. Standing before their classmates and the beloved teachers, their gratitude was evident.

We’re now heading off on our own paths. It’s exciting to imagine us spreading across the globe — but no matter the distance between us, the bond we share will always remain the same. 

So wherever you are on this planet, keep moving forward and defying gravity. Also remember that even when the dark comes crashing through or when you need a friend to carry you, you will never be alone.

Get ready to embrace the next chapter of life. We’ve shared a truly wonderful journey at Malvern, and I know we’ll all miss those moments on the sixth form centre sofas. Sometimes the simplest words are the hardest to say, but also the most powerful: Thank you, I love you guys. Sincerely wishing each and every one of you the brightest of futures.

—— Tommy Zhang & Coco Liu

Speech by Ms Jacqueline So

Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Malvern College International, Asia Pacific Region

In her speech, Ms Jacqueline So expressed that the Class of 2025 at Malvern College Chengdu has not only gained knowledge but has also shaped their own unique character and forged sincere and enduring friendships.

Today, we gather to celebrate a significant milestone in your lives — a moment filled with both reflection and anticipation. Graduates, you stand on the threshold of a new chapter, equipped with knowledge, skills, and experiences that will guide you through life’s journey. You have faced challenges, embraced opportunities, and grown not just as students, but as individuals ready to make their mark on the world.

You will undoubtedly face challenges in the years ahead — be it in higher education, the workplace, or personal endeavours. Life is unpredictable, and obstacles will arise. However, I urge you to tackle these challenges with a positive mindset. View setbacks not as failures, but as opportunities to learn and grow. Your resilience will define your journey, and the way you respond to adversity will shape your character.

As you move forward, I invite you to return to our campus, to share not only your accomplishments but also the lessons learned from your setbacks. We are here to support you.

In closing, graduates, remember that success is not solely measured by personal achievements but by the positive difference you make in the lives of others. Strive to be leaders who inspire, innovators who create, and advocates who empower.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! As you move forward, know that you are the architects of your future. Go forth with confidence, passion, and purpose. The world is waiting for you.

—— Ms Jacqueline So

Speech by Mr Wayne Maher 

Director of Education, Malvern International

This year marks the third time that Mr Wayne Maher, the Director of Malvern International Education, has travelled from the UK to Malvern College Chengdu to witness this important milestone. This time, it’s with the Class of 2025.

Never be afraid to ask “Why?” and just as importantly, to ask “Why not?”. Be bold in your thinking but humble in your actions. Remain open to new perspectives, cultures, and ideas. When the going gets tough, as it inevitably will at times, lean on your resilience, your kindness, and the knowledge that you carry with you a foundation shaped by something truly special. 

So, class of 2025, this is your moment. A moment of joy, of reflection, and of looking to the future. You are ready not just for university or your careers, but for the lifelong journey of becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. On behalf of Malvern College International, and the entire Malvern College family around the world, I wish you all the very best for the journey ahead.

—— Mr Wayne Maher

Parent Representative 

Ms Liu Yan

This year, Ms Liu Yan, the mother of Carina Zhou, also delivered a unique blessing from the parents’ community. At the graduation ceremony, every word was filled with heartfelt love. Parents will always be the backbone of every graduate, no matter where they go.

The most “powerful” aspect of international education is turning “mistakes” into fuel for growth. Those quizzes you failed, the homework you forgot to hand in, the tears of disappointment in competitions, the embarrassment of being caught playing with your phone… none of these were in vain. You have learned to take responsibility, to adjust your approach, and to build resilience. These marks of trial and error will eventually come together, shining a more determined and composed light in your eyes. 

The true meaning of international education is not to have children find standard answers but to teach them to use the map of the world to draw their own life paths.

—— Ms Liu Yan