Elephant Wisdom: John Clark’s Farewell Speech

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In his retirement year with us after years of dedicated service since the founding of Shrewsbury International School Bangkok City Campus, our beloved Governor, John Clark, delivered an inspiring speech during our Speech Day and Prize Giving Ceremony last academic year.

“What is your favourite animal?” John Clark asked the children, prompting a chorus of answers: dogs, cats, even snakes. He then revealed that his favourite animal is the elephant.

“Elephants are remarkable creatures, among the most extraordinary on the planet,” John Clark said, and the audience leaned in, eager to hear more.

He recounted his time as a Head Teacher in Africa, where he had a dangerous encounter with an elephant. While driving an old, rickety car through a safari, he found a giant African elephant blocking his path.

“What should I do?” John asked his safari guide. The guide’s response was unexpected and filled with wisdom.

The students guessed he should stop and wait for help, give the elephant food, or turn around and flee. But the guide said, “Drive your car straight at the elephant.”

The children gasped in surprise.

John Clark described how he trusted the guide’s advice. As he nervously accelerated, the elephant trumpeted but then stepped aside, allowing him to pass safely. This experience taught him a powerful lesson.

He clarified that while this might not be the best way to treat animals, it was the safest option in that situation. “Many of us try to avoid obstacles, but sometimes confronting them is the only way to ensure safety.”

John Clark then shared three profound lessons we can learn from elephants, all deeply relevant to our community at Shrewsbury Bangkok City Campus: support, respect, and memory.

Support: Elephants always support each other. In a herd, they care for the weakest and youngest, ensuring no one is left behind. They push each other forward or slow down to keep the group together. At City Campus, we embody this spirit by always supporting one another, offering encouragement, and believing that everyone matters.

Respect: Elephants are very respectful creatures. They respect their elders and mourn their dead. When encountering a dead elephant, they stop, remain silent, and mourn, much like humans do. At City Campus, we uphold this value by respecting our teachers, parents, and friends, creating a community built on mutual respect.

Memory: Elephants have formidable memories. They remember their land, their herd, and ensure everyone is looked after. At City Campus, we must also cherish our memories, never forgetting the lessons we’ve learned and the people who have touched our lives. We must treasure and value these memories, for they shape who we are.

John Clark concluded by saying he will never forget Shrewsbury Bangkok City Campus. It is a special place, made special by everyone here —staff, parents, and students. And for that, he said, “I am grateful.”