GSIS new head gives education a Germanic twist

After teaching English and Russian for 10 years in Germany, Grit Cichon decided it was time to see some other parts of the world. For that reason, she took off to the United States via an exchange programme with American teachers to teach English in Pennsylvania for a year.

“That was the start of my change of direction to become more involved in school leadership,” says Cichon, explaining that the experience subsequently led to a move to Hong Kong in mid-2016 as deputy principal at the German Swiss International School (GSIS).

“I’ve always been a fan of New York, but Hong Kong is definitely outdoing New York when it comes to all the skyscrapers,” she says, noting too the abundant greenery enveloping the GSIS campus at Guildford Road on The Peak. “It’s an overwhelming city. When I first came for an interview, I was pleasantly surprised by the view from the principal’s office.”

After the addition last November of new science labs and enhanced facilities for sports and arts, a key initiative this school year is to advocate diversity and inclusion at all levels.

“We started discussing this with teachers to find a good concept that would work for our school and we are now trying to make these ideas happen,” Cichon says. “We looked at what makes us an inclusive school and, from there, began hiring people who are professionals in the related fields.”

For instance, a student centre has been established for primary and secondary pupils to provide support and counselling when necessary on a one-on-one basis.