A Journey Across the UK: The Higher Education Alumni Tour 2026

Alumni article SHR Article

Over 15 days across 10 cities and towns, Shrewsbury Bangkok Riverside’s Higher Education team, led by Dominic Mochan (Director of Higher Education) and Kate Abery (Associate Director of Higher Education), travelled to the UK on a journey defined by connection, collaboration, and purpose. More than a series of visits, the tour became a network of relationships, bringing together students, universities, alumni, and future pathways.

In Cambridge, the focus was on the ever-evolving admissions trends, student experience, and academic expectations, alongside meaningful reconnections with alumni and academic leaders. At Stamford School, the team met with Chris Seal, former Headmaster of Shrewsbury Bangkok Riverside, where conversations ranged from insights from the recent UCAS Conference to wider developments shaping the future of the education sector, strengthened by alumni connections and shared values.

In Nottingham, the emphasis shifted towards careers education and real-world readiness, with visits across Engineering departments, admissions teams, student support services, and creative learning spaces, offering a rich picture of how universities prepare students for life beyond the classroom. At Warwick and Oxford, meetings with Economics, Engineering, and Architecture faculties, including exposure to the UK’s top-ranked Architecture programme, provided deep insight into innovation, curriculum development, and future-focused academic pathways.

A highlight of the journey took place in Cheltenham, where the team met with UCAS for in-depth discussions on admissions systems, international mobility, digital transformation, and the future of higher education in an AI-driven world, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of global guidance and university preparation.

In Cardiff, the team made their first visit to the city, building new connections and gaining fresh insight into UK higher education through meetings with admissions teams and tours of academic and sporting facilities.

The journey continued through Bristol and Bath, where conversations with international teams and academic departments deepened understanding of how universities support both academic excellence and personal development.

What made the tour special was the sense of reunion. Catching up with alumni across the UK, sharing stories, and celebrating their journeys reflected the strength of our community, a network built on connection, belonging, and lifelong support. 

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