A Tribute to Mr Nick Magnus MBE
Mr Nick Magnus, Head of Dulwich College (Singapore), has been awarded the prestigious title of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King's Birthday Honours 2024: Overseas and International List, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to British education and British communities overseas. Nick’s journey, which spans many continents and institutions, is one marked by dedication, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence in education.
Educated at St Boniface College in Devon, UK, Nick furthered his academic pursuits at St Mary's University College, University of Surrey in Twickenham, UK, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts with QTS (Honours) in Education and History, specialising in medieval history. This solid foundation set the stage for a remarkable career in education.
From there, Nick’s teaching career began in schools in Bristol and London, where his passion for education and his ability to inspire students quickly became evident. It was these early experiences in the UK which laid the groundwork for his future endeavours in international education.
In 1998, Nick made a significant move to Kenya, where he served as Deputy Head and subsequently Head of Braeburn School, the largest British international school in East Africa. Under his leadership, the school experienced substantial growth in enrolment and achieved membership in the Independent Association of Preparatory Schools (IAPS). During his five-year tenure as Headmaster, Nick also chaired the British Curriculum Schools of Kenya (BCSK), further solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader.
Nick’s career took another leap forward in 2007 when he became the Founding Head of Dulwich College (Suzhou) in China. His tenure of five and a half years was marked by significant milestones, including the completion of ambitious building projects for new Infant and Senior Schools. Under his guidance, the College joined the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA), received authorisation from the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to offer the IB Diploma, and achieved full accreditation from both the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Beyond the College, Nick currently serves on the Executive Committee of FOBISIA, overseeing Membership and Standards, and as Secretary for the British Chamber of Commerce in Singapore. His contributions to education while in China were recognised with the titles of Honorary Friend of Suzhou in 2009 and Honorary Friend of Jiangsu Province in 2010. In 2011, he was honoured as one of the top 10 educators in Suzhou, the first non-Chinese citizen to receive such an accolade.
In 2012, Nick moved to Singapore to become the Founding Head of Dulwich College (Singapore). His leadership continues to shape the future of this award-winning institution, which marks its 10th anniversary this year, ensuring that it remains a centre of educational excellence in the region. As Nick often says, “It is a journey from good to great.”
His professional achievements are complemented by a fulfilling personal life. He has been married to Sonia, a fellow teacher, for almost 30 years, and they have two children.
Nick’s recognition as a Member of the Order of the British Empire is a tribute to his extraordinary contributions to education worldwide. His journey, spanning the UK to Kenya, China and Singapore, is a testament to his unwavering dedication to fostering academic excellence and nurturing the potential of countless young minds.
In the decade since the College was established, members of the Dulwich College (Singapore) community will have no doubt seen evidence of Nick’s profound impact as an educator who is able to inspire future generations.
His contribution is one of passion, commitment and transformative influence. As a leader, he has left an indelible mark on the global educational landscape.
Long may it continue.
