This autumn, Harrow Shenzhen
had the honour of hosting
Dr Peter Bolgar from Fitzwilliam College,
University of Cambridge on campus.
Meanwhile, our students also had the
opportunity to listen and ask questions of
James Brown,
Head of International Student Recruitment at the
at the University of Oxford.
These exchanges offered our Year 11 and Year 12 students rare, direct engagement with representatives of two of the world’s most prestigious universities. Through candid discussions, students explored academic planning, university applications, and personal development — receiving guidance that extended far beyond application strategies and reaffirming Harrow Shenzhen’s commitment to nurturing world-class learners.
01
A Visit That Speaks Volumes:
Recognition from the World’s Best
Globally, representatives from Oxford and Cambridge visit only a select group of schools known for academic excellence and exceptional student development. Harrow Shenzhen’s inclusion reflects their confidence in our rigorous teaching standards, student quality, and university guidance system.
More than an academic exchange, this visit sent a powerful message —
Harrow Shenzhen students are recognised and respected by the world’s top universities.
02
Insights from Oxford and Cambridge:
What Defines a Truly “Outstanding” Student
Dr Bolgar and James Brown shared insights on what distinguishes an “ideal candidate.” Beyond outstanding grades, they emphasised intellectual curiosity, independent thinking, and genuine passion.
Key takeaways included:
Curiousity is key beyond the classroom.
Grades may open the door, but genuine thinking and intellectual curiosity are what truly matter. Oxford and Cambridge look for students who question ideas, explore deeply, and think analytically.
Passion must be genuine.
Real enthusiasm shows through consistent engagement with the subject beyond exams or resume-building activities.
Being able to discuss ideas.
Clear reasoning and self-awareness matters more than rehearsed answers.
James Brown
Head of International Student Recruitment, University of Oxford
“At Oxford, we don’t look for students who know all the answers — we look for those who can ask the right questions.”
Dr. Peter Bolgar,
Fitzwilliam College,
University of Cambridge
“Don’t chase perfection
—chase passion and purpose.”
These insights inspired our students to shift their focus — from “how to get high scores” to “how to think deeply and learn with purpose.”
03
Facing Challenges with Confidence:
The Harrow Support System
Every student faces uncertainty and pressure during the university application journey. As the admissions officers highlighted,
“Difficulties are not the problem — what matters is having the right support system to face them.”
Harrow Shenzhen provides precisely that system. Through our dedicated University Counselling Team, academic mentors, competition guidance, and tailored interview preparation, every student receives structured, personalised support to pursue their academic goals with confidence.
Here, no student walks alone — every step forward is guided by expertise, care, and purpose.
Harrow
Shenzhen
04
Education Beyond Results
These visits reaffirmed Harrow Shenzhen’s core mission: education is about cultivating leaders of vision, character, and responsibility, not just achieving top grades.
Every engagement with world-class universities brings students closer to their aspirations — academically, personally, and globally.
For Harrow Shenzhen learners,
these experiences are a reminder
that curiosity, reflection,
and purposeful growth are the keys to
success in the world’s top universities.
Harrow Shenzhen will continue to work
closely with world-leading universities,
guiding students toward
global horizons and lifelong success.
