Dulwich College Beijing - The College Magazine Winter 2018

Guest Speakers
The Honourable Alexandra Shackleton Visits DCB
We were delighted to listen to tales of leadership, loyalty, and
resilience as told by the granddaughter of one of the greatest
explorers in the twentieth century. Dulwich College Beijing was
privileged to receive a very special guest in September – the
Honourable Alexandra Shackleton on her first ever trip to China!
In both auditorium and more intimate settings, she met with
students, parents and staff and answered questions about Sir Ernest
Shackleton’s expeditions as well as about what it is like to travel to
the Antarctic, which she has done five times.
Through the talks, DCB students gained insight on Sir
Shackleton’s qualities that held the 28 men together when they were
stranded in the Antarctic during the Endurance Expedition 1914 –
1916. These qualities included pragmatism, the ability to maintain
morale, and also, the courage to stand up to peer pressure. Sir
Shackleton gained loyalty from his men because he was loyal to
them; the wellbeing of his men came first. He did not separate the
officers from the rest of the crew; everyone did menial jobs, and
groups were put together according to personalities, not rank.
“It was unusual for leaders 100 years ago”, said Alexandra
Shackleton of her grandfather in an interview with DCB Head Girl
Yi Wen L, “He took lots of trouble to get to know his men – their
strengths and weaknesses.”
By the way, the name Shackleton is no stranger to Dulwich.
Ernest Shackleton was a graduate of the founding College in
London. There, you can visit the James Caird, the famous life boat
that braved 800 miles (1,287 km) of turbulent sea to reach South
Georgia. Here in Beijing, we have enjoyed listening to the inspiring
stories as told by his granddaughter.
“What’s in It for Me?” Author Julia Cook Answers
How do we motivate our kids? Why do they need to fail? How
do we allow technology to add to our children's life as opposed to
taking from it?
These, and many more topics, were discussed in student,
parent, and staff workshops across two days in September with
national award-winning author Julia Cook. Ms Cook is a former
teacher and counsellor and has presented at hundreds of schools
and conferences and appeared on television across America. DCB
was delighted to welcome her back for a visit.
Drawing from her extensive research and experience, Ms Cook
gave many useful tips and fresh perspectives on everyday parenting
and, on the flip side, growing up dilemmas.
Using her books as well as audience participation, she touched
on several life skills with Junior School students, including taking
risks, forming good habits, staying focused, and being responsible
online. For each topic, she gave compelling reasons as to why it is
worth it for the kids to do so; in other words, what’s in it for them?
Hence, parents and educators should refrain from saying “you
have to do this” but instead, say “you get to do this”. It is important
for parents and educators to provide an engaging environment for
children but with clear boundaries. “Kids need a safe place where
they can screw up,” said Ms Cook, because the best predictor of
success is grit. Grit is “passion and perseverance for very long-term
goals”.
Conversely, video games provide instant success – no value in
real life. With regards to technology use, parents should serve as
role models. So parents, put away your phone when your child is
speaking to you!
With so much positive feedback from students, parents and
staff, we thank Ms Cook for her great no-nonsense tips and advice.
The College Magazine (Beijing)
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