Studying the British style
STUDENTS who enter and excel at Epsom College in Malaysia will have a whole host of opportunities to look forward to in the future, said the college’s board of governors chairman Tan Sri Tony Fernandes.
With the board members coming from a range of different industries, students will have an added advantage compared to those in other schools due to the array of contacts and opportunities available.
“Present Epsom College students from the United Kingdom have written to me,” said Fernandes, who attended the college in the United Kingdom (UK) from 1977 to 1983.
Fernandes also announced that scholarships would be available for students. Although more information on the scholarships are not available as yet, headmaster Gareth Eynon explained some of the criteria that would be taken into consideration when selecting students for scholarships.
“The selection criteria will include examinations in the English language.
“For music scholarships, students will have to undergo auditions as well as show proof of certification in specific instruments.
“For sports, students will have to show proof of rankings or participation at state or national levels,” he said.
He added that other subjects may require students to display a portfolio and that exam results will be taken into consideration as well.
However, the most important aspect of the selection process will be the interview session.
“Whatever the area of excellence, be it academic, music, art or sports, top level performers can be supported and their talents nurtured,” said Eynon.
Fernandes recalled fondly his years at the college in the UK and thus when given the opportunity to start a campus in Malaysia, he grabbed it.
“Epsom wasn’t just where I learned the textbook truths of maths, science and history, but so many other values that have shaped my beliefs. It taught me ambition, humility and leadership,” he said.
He added that education was not about getting a host of A’s but about bringing out the best in every child.
“At Epsom College, students will be given the chance to excel at sports and to experience the arts and drama.
“They will be allowed to experience everything and see what they are good at,” he said, adding that the school might also be where they make their most important friendships.
He shared that one of the important parts of education is learning communication. “Epsom played a large part in that. Put me anywhere in the world and I would be able to get my message across,” he said.
According to Eynon, many parents from China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand and the United Kingdom have already registered their children.
The college has begun admissions testing and the first semester of schooling will begin in September next year.
“Whether it is scholarship application or interest in regular admission, the number of places are limited in the first year of operation,” he said, urging potential students to submit their applications as soon as possible.
More information is available at the college’s administrative office in Publika, Solaris Dutamas, or visit www.epsomcollege.