A Message from the Head Master
About Brighton College
Our Philosophy
Our Mission
Our Values
The Pupil Experience
Pedagogy and Teaching Approach
Our Curriculum
Our Super Curriculum
Life Beyond the Classroom
Our Teachers
We are delighted to welcome you to Brighton College in Hanoi. Building on the 200-year-old tradition of Brighton College UK, our school shares the timeless values of confidence, curiosity and kindness that have made us 'The School of the Decade'. Most of all this is a place where young lives are transformed and where you will find happy, confident, and fulfilled pupils. We are renowned for our academic excellence which is rooted in exceptional learning and teaching from some of the very best educators worldwide. Yet, if you speak of a Brighton College education, it is the product of the magical combination of a wealth of co-curricular opportunities, a caring and supportive community and a commitment to the individual needs and enthusiasm of each and every child. That is what makes us so special and I invite you to come and see for yourselves this unique community where something magical happens every day.
Founding Head Master of Brighton College Vietnam Matthew
Bartlett
“Brighton College is one of the great modern success stories of British independent education.”
- The Sunday Times
Founded in 1845, Brighton College is one of the world’s leading independent schools for children aged 3-18. It has won numerous international awards, including being named ‘UK School of the Decade’ by The Sunday Times and listed as a ‘Top 100 Schools in the World’ by Spear’s Schools Index.
Brighton College achieves the best academic results for any co-educational school in the United Kingdom, whilst ensuring children enjoy a wealth of co-curricular opportunities. Renowned for its focus on kindness and community, pupils at the College also excel in art, music, dance, drama, and sport. Pupils go on to study at the best universities in the world, including Oxford, Cambridge, Russell Group schools, and top schools in the US, including the Ivy League, making Brighton one of the most successful schools in Europe.
As a result, Brighton College has grown. With campuses in the UAE, Singapore and Thailand, Brighton College Vietnam is part of an award-winning international family of schools that all share the same approach to education: a love of learning, innovation, and kindness. The first Brighton College Vietnam campus officially opened its doors to our founding pupils from Year 1 to Year 10 in August 2023.
At Brighton College Vietnam, we believe education is an active and collaborative process that emphasises hands-on learning experiences that are meaningful and applicable to real-world challenges. We believe that every pupil has unique talents and strengths which can be developed through a personalised learning approach. We empower our pupils to take ownership of their learning and to cultivate critical thinking skills, creativity, intellectual curiosity and a sense of agency. We are committed to diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that every pupil feels both valued and supported, and that every voice is heard through being part of a distinctive school community. In preparing our pupils to make meaningful contributions to their own communities and to the world, we demonstrate that education is a lifelong process of discovery, innovation and adaptation.
Our mission at Brighton College Vietnam is to inspire each pupil to achieve academic excellence and to evolve into the best version of themselves, prepared to excel in the global arena. We integrate innovative and personalised educational approaches with state-of-the-art technologies and unparalleled teaching quality. Our commitment is to provide an education that prioritises the individual needs and aspirations of our pupils while being firmly outcome-oriented. We endeavour to equip our pupils with the skills essential for ongoing success, grounding our work in our core values of curiosity, confidence, and kindness. We ensure that every young individual we mentor is prepared to make a positive impact on society. Ultimately, we aim to cultivate critical thinkers and creative problem-solvers who embrace diverse viewpoints and are enthusiastic about contributing to the expansive world they are part of.
“There is a rich vein of kindness and inclusivity running through the school.”
- Tatler Schools Guide
We know that young people who are happy are young people who thrive. And we believe that the best way of achieving a happy community is to ensure that everyone feels valued for who they are. We want our pupils to be first-class versions of themselves, not second-class versions of someone else, and we place great emphasis on tolerance and mutual respect. Brighton College Vietnam is guided by a set of values that ensures our pupils’ well-being:
Delivering an innovative, challenging and broad curriculum which encourages curiosity and enquiry.
Developing a foundation of knowledge and body of skills to understand and question the world in which we live.
Providing opportunities for children to build and maintain positive relationships and develop the necessary skills to contribute in a meaningful way.
Imparting an enthusiasm for the world beyond the classroom, in particular: sports, music and the performing arts.
Respecting differences in others, and recognising that the efforts and achievements of every individual in our community are valued equally.
Making a positive difference in the world.
“It is a wonderfully inclusive and happy environment, and that is what explains our results. Children who are happy in their own skin, valued for who they are and valued by their peers will achieve more than their parents ever thought possible – and that really is the story of Brighton College.”
- Head Master of Brighton College UK, Richard Cairns
“The school is highly successful in stimulating independent and enquiring minds.”
- Independent Schools Inspectorate
Brighton College schools across the world benefit from strong links between the family of schools and, in particular, with their founding school, Brighton College UK. Brighton College is the top co-educational school in the UK and was named UK School of the Decade in 2020. The College has also been named Britain’s Most Forward-Thinking School (The Week, 2014 and 2018), and the Top School in Britain for STEM (The Week, 2023).
The success of Brighton College schools is based on innovative Quality First Teaching, which aims to create progress, achievement, motivation, personal growth and a sense of responsibility for learning in our pupils, thus fulfilling our aim of creating a love of learning for its own sake. Ultimately, the goal of all the teaching and learning in a Brighton College school is to enable each child to achieve his or her academic potential. Our teachers achieve this goal by developing confidence and knowledge in our pupils, so that they become curious, outward-looking, independent, resourceful, resilient and reflective young people.
An inspiring curriculum from Key Stage 1 all the way through to Sixth Form provides abundant opportunities for high-quality learning and wider personal development; as a result, the standards attained by pupils at Brighton College are expected to be excellent in relation to their abilities. Brighton College Vietnam is committed to being the school with the strongest academic outcomes and provision in Hanoi, underpinned by Brighton College’s three key pillars of curiosity, confidence and kindness. This will support our pupils to access the world’s top universities and go forth into the world with a strong foundation of values.
Brighton College Vietnam's curriculum mirrors the successful Brighton College combined curriculum: a progressive, British-style education based on the English National Curriculum, with unique additional subjects essential to the Brighton College approach, having nearly 200 years of proven success. Some of the subjects that the school will be offering pupils in Years 1 through to Year 9 are:
English The aim is to promote high standards of language and literacy by equipping pupils with a strong command of the spoken and written language, and to develop their love of literature through widespread reading for enjoyment.
Mathematics Pupils will make rich connections across mathematical ideas to develop fluency, mathematical reasoning and competence in solving increasingly sophisticated problems. They will also apply their mathematical knowledge to science and other subjects.
Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
World languages (French, Mandarin, German)
Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils will be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They will be encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.
Learning a foreign language is a liberation from insularity and provides an opening to other cultures, fostering pupils’ curiosity and deepening their understanding of the world. Language teaching should provide the foundation for learning further languages, equipping pupils to study and work in other countries, to express their ideas and thoughts both in speech and in writing in other languages.
Computing
Pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Pupils will be digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
In Year 10 and Year 11, pupils will follow the IGCSE curriculum, and in addition to the compulsory core subjects of English, Maths and Science, they will be able to choose up to four additional subjects such as: Business Studies, Computer Science, Geography, History, World Languages (e.g. Mandarin, French), Art, Music, DT, Drama and PE. For Years 12 and 13, Brighton College Vietnam intends to use the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
Design Technology (DT)
PE, Swimming, Dance
Design technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values.
Opportunities to compete in sport and other activities build character and help to embed values such as fairness and respect. Physical Education will provide opportunities for pupils to become physically confident in a way which supports their health and fitness.
Art
Music
Drama
Pupils will be inspired, challenged, and equipped with the knowledge and skills to experiment, invent and create their own works of art, craft and design. They will know how art and design both reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nations.
Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity. Pupils will be engaged and inspired to develop a love of music and their talent as musicians, and so increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement.
Drama is taught as a discrete subject and aims to: develop pupils’ self-confidence; introduce pupils to ways that performance and theatre has changed throughout different historical contexts; and provide opportunities for pupils to perform in front of an audience.
Please note: Vietnamese pupils will also be learning Vietnamese language, history, and geography.
A Brighton College education involves exceptional teaching of the English National Curriculum, and of our own innovative and exciting Super Curriculum. These are subjects and activities custom created by Brighton College to help our pupils develop the skills and confidence they need to take a full, active and positive role in the world around them. Some examples of this unique Super Curriculum include:
Learning about our planet and our past
In Year 7 and 8, Brighton College Vietnam pupils are taught the humanities subjects from a cross-curricular perspective. This university-style approach enables pupils to see the connections between subject areas, supporting them in developing critical thinking, essay writing abilities and advanced analysis skills.
Critical thinking Analysis
Interdisciplinary perspective
Home Economics and Life-Time Health
The importance of independence, well-being, and sustainability is brought to life for our Prep School pupils through a spectrum of topics – from culinary exploration, menu planning, and handling textiles, to relaxation and mindfulness. HEALTH prepares our pupils for life outside of school, complementing academics with key transferable skills like independence, organisation, and self-discipline. This is all taught within a modern, purpose-built kitchen classroom, designed to inspire pupils and encourage them to live sustainably in their environments.
Self-sufficiency Responsibility
Well-being
Building confidence and conviction
Our younger Senior School pupils are introduced to public speaking in this Key Stage 3 course. Recognising the importance of this skill for both university and beyond, pupils are guided through a programme that teaches them how to be able to speak in front of both their peers and adults with conviction and clarity. This is taught in state-of-the art classrooms and flexible learning spaces such as our Creative Learning Centre.
Communication Engagement Attention Confidence
Social responsibility, business and financial skills
This is introduced at Key Stage 3, and forms a compulsory part of the Sixth Form curriculum. At Sixth Form, pupils are mentored by experts from the commercial world through a programme that allows them to develop a business plan for a new product or service, create a marketing strategy, formulate a budget and then bid for capital – vital skills to help them prepare for the world of work.
Collaboration Management Business
A wealth of co-curricular activities (CCAs) are available to help pupils develop their interests and passions beyond the curriculum. They provide spaces for creativity, inspiration, challenge, growth and enjoyment. All the children are encouraged to take part in this inclusive enrichment programme and contribute in their own positive unique way.
Pupils benefit from personalised, inspirational and fun classroom lessons - which, combined with the wide range of activities available in the co-curriculum, enable them to flourish. This enrichment allows pupils with high learning potential to show and explore their skills, supported by the challenging and exciting curriculum programme.
The comprehensive CCA programme at Brighton College Vietnam offers an impressive array of over 90 options each week that cater to a wide range of interests and talents. Among the diverse selection, pupils have the unique opportunity to engage in both traditional and innovative activities.
The Quidditch team brings to life the magical game from the world of Harry Potter, fostering teamwork and physical agility. It's a perfect blend of fantasy and sport that captivates the imagination and encourages athletic prowess.
Home Economics classes go beyond basic cooking and sewing; they teach essential life skills, promote nutritional awareness, and encourage sustainable living practices. These classes empower pupils to manage everyday tasks with confidence and creativity.
Drama club is where pupils unleash their theatrical potential, learning about everything from classical acting techniques to contemporary performance art. It's a hub for creativity that nurtures confidence and communication skills.
Golf sessions introduce pupils to the nuances of the game, including technique, etiquette, and the mental aspect of play. Seasoned instructors provide an ideal environment for both beginners and aspiring professionals.
The Games club is a dynamic space where pupils engage in strategic board games, video games, and puzzles, which foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and social interaction.
Creative Writing workshops allow pupils to explore various genres, from poetry to science fiction, and develop their voice as writers. It's a platform for expression, critique, and literary appreciation.
Dance classes encompass a spectrum of styles, from ballet to hip-hop, promoting physical fitness, rhythm, and cultural expression. Pupils not only learn techniques but also explore the history and evolution of dance.
Mindful Art sessions blend the practice of mindfulness with the creative process of art-making, offering a serene escape and a means to express and manage emotions through mediums like painting and sculpting.
Robotics teams tackle the challenges of design, programming, and engineering, equipping pupils with hands-on experience in STEM fields and preparing them for a future in technology and innovation.
Model United Nations (MUN) is a simulation of the UN General Assembly where pupils role-play as delegates, honing their debating skills, understanding of international relations, and diplomacy.
These are just a few highlights of our CCA programme, ensuring that every pupil can find a passion to pursue, develop unique skills, and prepare for a well-rounded future. In addition, further enrichment and off-timetable days that typically take place for all pupils as part of the Brighton College Vietnam timetable curriculum include:
• Charity Day: outreach and partnership work in the local community to support charity initiatives and social enterprises.
• Sports Day
• Field Days (activity days, museum and cultural visits)
• Subject department trips.
“First class qualifications from top global institutions, excellent teaching expertise, teaching experience at high achieving schools in Britain and across the world, passion and enthusiasm for education within and beyond the classroom… are all special traits that have become the DNA of teachers at Brighton College - the “UK School of the Decade" (The Sunday Times). These are also the prerequisites for selecting teachers at Brighton College Vietnam.”
- Founding Head Master, Matthew Bartlett
We take great pride in recruiting only the very best teachers to Brighton College Vietnam. We know that outstanding teachers change lives. Teaching at all levels at Brighton College Vietnam is characterised by passion. Pupils are inspired by gifted and enthusiastic teachers to achieve more than they ever thought possible.
Emphasis is placed on both academic rigour and innovation within a curriculum that caters to the individual needs of all our pupils. Teachers are fully involved in designing and delivering this curriculum. Our teachers all play an active role in the College’s strong and supportive pastoral care system, where every child is an individual and everything we do is rooted in a culture of kindness. Teachers are an essential part of our broad and exciting co-curricular programme, offering activities that reflect their own interests as well as those of the children.
All teachers working at Brighton College Vietnam are required to have a university degree, a certified teaching qualification, working knowledge of the EYFS, the English National Curriculum, ISEB, GCSE/IGCSE and IB Diploma, as appropriate, and teaching experience.
Located in Vinhomes Ocean Park Hanoi, our first Brighton College Vietnam campus is a brand new purpose-built international school that caters to pupils from 5-18 years of age. Spread across 3.4 hectares of open, green space with a lake-side view, our world-class modern campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities that meet every need of our pupils in pursuit of excellence. Our campus consists of two buildings: the Prep School and the Senior School, with awe-inspiring libraries, dining halls, modern indoor and outdoor sports facilities, performing arts and music studios, design and technology workshops, science laboratories, a private cinema and 500-seat theatre to house the many performances our pupils prepare for during the year.
We would be delighted to take you on a school tour. Please contact our Admissions team for more information.
Brighton College pupils receive offers from the top universities in the world. Here are some of the popular UK and US university destinations over the past ten years:
are accepted to Oxford and Cambridge
1 in 3 pupils
1 in 6 pupils receive offers from Russell Group universities in the UK 98% of pupils applying to a USA university receive a place 85% of pupils who are applying to Ivy League institutions in the USA are offered a place.
History of Excellence:
Brighton College is a well-established school with almost 200 years of combined school success in academic excellence. Brighton College is actively involved in the recruitment process, curriculum development, as well as quality assurance to ensure this success translates to Brighton College Vietnam.
Outstanding Co-Curriculars:
Beyond the classroom: not just academicfocused, we also offer a wide range of subjects in performing arts, music, sports, and co-curricular activities.
First-class Facilities:
Brighton College Vietnam operates purpose-built, state-of-the-art campuses that give pupils the best and safest environment for innovative learning.
Above and Beyond:
21st century skills: Our education must prepare children for the future where most of the jobs do not even exist yet. In our curriculum, we integrate 21st century skills within each subject.
21st Century Education:
Random acts of kindness and community service: the school develops intelligent, responsible, kind, well-rounded individuals who want to make the world a better place.
We are pleased you are considering Brighton College Vietnam for your child/children. Our helpful Admissions team is happy to answer enquiries and schedule a school tour for you.
For more information, please fill out the “Intent to Register” form that can be found on our website. Our Admissions team will contact you shortly.
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We look forward to seeing you at Brighton College Vietnam!