A Legacy of Learning: Simon Baxter’s Journey in Mathematics Education at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside

article Exceptional People Our Spotlight Riverside Senior SHR Article

For over five decades, Simon Baxter has dedicated his life to teaching Mathematics, fostering understanding, and inspiring students both in the UK and Thailand. With a career spanning from 1967 to 2025, Mr. Baxter’s passion for education has remained unwavering, making a lasting impact on countless students. “I just enjoyed the fun,” he shares, summing up his motivation for teaching.

After graduating with a Mathematics degree from Oxford University, Mr. Baxter embarked on a teaching career that would shape generations of learners. He spent 38 years at Shrewsbury School in the UK before making the move to Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside where he taught Year 12 and 13 students. What started as a year of teacher training turned into a lifelong vocation driven by pure enjoyment.

Reflecting on his years at Shrewsbury, Mr. Baxter treasures the relationships he has built with students and colleagues. His fondest memories stem from the rewarding moments when students grasp new concepts and develop a genuine appreciation for Mathematics.

“It’s been a wide range of things—not just teaching Maths. I’ve enjoyed being part of the community, watching plays, listening to music, and engaging in the vibrant school life.”

As Mr. Baxter looks back on his remarkable teaching career, his advice to students and educators alike is simple: find joy in what you do.

“Job satisfaction and career fulfillment come from passion. Choose something you love, and success will follow.”

The Classroom as an Island of Learning

Mr. Baxter describes his teaching space as a “little island”. His interactive approach—posing thought-provoking questions and creating an engaging atmosphere—ensures that students find both enjoyment and challenge in their studies.

Despite the passing decades, Mr. Baxter believes that the core principles of Mathematics education have remained steady. While technology and global influences have shaped modern classrooms, the syllabus and examinations have largely stayed the same. However, his teaching philosophy has always centered around deep understanding.

“Mathematics is about understanding, not just operating techniques. I always encourage students to think critically and solve challenges beyond the syllabus.”

With his tenure at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside drawing to a close, Mr. Baxter leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, inspiration, and, above all, a love for learning. His influence will continue to resonate in the minds of his students, reminding them that education is not just about exams, but about shaping the way they think and engage with the world.

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