Jim Harvey

Jim Harvey - Head of Primary and Deputy Head at the British School Yangon (BSY)
1. How many years have you worked for the BSF and where? 

I’m now in my 8th year of working within BSF; 3 years in Beijing, 2 years in Kuala Lumpur and 3 years in Yangon.

2. Why did you choose to work for The BSF?

The Foundation gave me my first opportunity to work internationally. I had previously lived in Taiwan and wanted another challenge. Beijing was the perfect opportunity!

3. What positions, and for how many years, have you had at the school(s)?

I have had many roles within the group. Coordinating both Numeracy and Literacy in Beijing and KL respectively. I was also a Year Group Leader in KL and then went to help open our school in Yangon as Deputy Head of School and Head of Primary – a role that I am currently occupying.

4. What do you love about your current school?

The school in Yangon is buzzing with excitement and enthusiasm from the students, teachers and parents. Our Friday assemblies are well-attended by the school community.

5. What do you love about the area/country?

Yangon is a city for the senses. It’s extremely vibrant and has a real energy behind it. The people are some of the friendliest that I have met, in any country.

6. What do you like most about teaching internationally? 

Teaching internationally has allowed me to meet so many people from many different backgrounds. It is always a pleasure to come into school knowing that the children and parents care about education and the environment.

7. What strengths/skills helped you get to where you are today?

I like to see myself as a personable and approachable young(ish) man who, armed with a good sense of humour, is able to raise the spirits of the community.

8. Which of your childhood teachers stood out and why?

Mr. Wadey and Mr. Coupland (my old Year 3 and 7 teachers) were both fun and friendly but had high expectations of me. They pushed me to succeed.

9. What are your most treasured teaching resources? 

Ted Hughes’ Iron Man - a great class reader that had all ages enthralled from the get go.

10. What is the most memorable lesson you have taught?

My first lesson in Year 2 (having never taught lower than KS1) while in Beijing. Memorable for all sorts of reasons!

11. What do you like to do outside of work? Do you have any hobbies? 

I love to try new foods, to travel to as many different countries as possible and to attempt to go to the gym after a hard day’s work.