Small Talk
Fay Dalby of British Education Matters talks about how education abroad opens doors and broadens horizons for Filipino students
Fay Dalby of British Education Matters talks about how UK-based education can impact a new generation of Asian leaders
In 2012, Fay Dalby set up British Education Matters, an education consultancy that advises Asian parents and students on gaining admission into the UK’s top boarding schools and universities, mentoring students throughout their education. Dalby herself was Head Girl at Charterhouse, one of Britain’s finest boarding schools and attended Oxford where she earned her undergraduate and MA (Hons) in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE). She received three Blues for representing Oxford at swimming and tennis and still competes in both sports. She completed officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and was commissioned into the Royal Artillery as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Following a decade in finance at top global investment firms, Dalby’s passion for good education led to her life-changing work introducing young Asians to the benefits of education overseas while mentoring them through the process.
For more information regarding British Education Matters, visit their website at www.britisheducationmatters.com
What prompted you to promote British education to potential students in Asian countries?
Our ethos is based on the fundamental belief that the best longterm investment any parent can make is for the education of their child. Having been an overseas boarder, I knew first-hand how complicated the process can be. I was fortunate enough to benefit from the British school system, so I decided to set up British Education Matters to ensure others could also benefit the way I did, and have the help to guide them through the process. Mentoring pupils can be challenging, but it is so inspiring to witness my pupils transform and fulfill their potential.
As a product of the British educational system yourself, what do you think are the best possible benefits that it has for learners?
Confidence and selfbelief. The system encourages your character to develop, teaching you to believe in yourself and be whatever you want to be.
British schools encourage learning and independent thought, a curiosity for knowledge, and a desire to pursue excellence that will stay with children throughout their lives. You also develop friendships that grow into a useful global network. These friendships will always mean so much to me.
Does education abroad increase a child’s potential for leadership?
Absolutely. The British school system places an emphasis on activities inside and outside the classroom as well as within. Academic achievement and fulfilment are not the only benefits; emphasis is also placed on team spirit and involvement in a wide range of activities, resulting in a well-rounded individual prepared for any eventuality in an increasingly global world.
Are there any Philippine institutions you’ve partnered with?
Not yet, but we are looking forward to to being more actively involved in the Philippine setting. On this trip, we worked with the British Council to host a joint seminar which provided a great opportunity to meet some Filipino parents and pupils.
What do you think is the next step with regard to your work in the Philippines?
I am focused on our development in the Philippines and recently hired Jet Acuzar Atienza as our lead consultant in Manila. Jet also went through the British education system, having boarded at Woldingham and later studied at the London School of Economics (LSE), before returning to the Philippines. We would be delighted to help Filipino families consider British education, and witness their children’s transformation as Asia’s future leaders.