Guangzhou, China – September 2025 – The British Chamber of Commerce South China (BritCham South China) is proud to announce that its Education Working Group has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Community Award for Citizenship at the GESS Education Awards 2025, one of the most respected global accolades in the education sector.
The British Chamber of Commerce South China is a non-profit, member-led organisation that represents both its members and the wider industry, working to connect businesses, foster collaboration, and advocate on behalf of its community. It is governed by an Executive Committee elected by the membership. The Education Working Group (EWG) is one of its specialist groups, focused on the education sector. The EWG is led by a Chair and supported by four Regional Vice Chairs from member organisations, ensuring broad representation and expertise across the South China area.
The Education Working Group has been recognised for its innovative, inclusive, and community-driven initiatives that connect schools, families, businesses, and the wider community across Guangdong Province and South China.
In recent times the Working Group has launched a series of pioneering initiatives, including:
- Mindful March, a region-wide wellbeing programme launched by British Consul General Sarah Mann.
- The Special Educational Needs (SEN) Forum, a unique conference to develop inclusion-oriented education in South China.
- More than 25 free webinars featuring global experts on education, wellbeing, and inclusion.
- Quarterly networking brunches and community events across Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and beyond.
- A School Visit Programme, opening doors to dozens of campuses for parents and the wider public.
This global recognition highlights the impact and innovation of BritCham South China’s Education Working Group, which has highlighted wellbeing, and inclusion, while making professional learning more accessible for members of the education community.
Dr Michael Jones, Chair of the Education Working Group, commented:
“We are honoured to be recognised as a finalist for the GESS Education Awards. This achievement reflects the dedication of our volunteers, the generosity of our partners, and the openness of schools, families, and businesses across South China who believe in the power of education to bring communities together.”
The winners of the GESS Education Awards will be announced at the international ceremony in November this year, where leading schools, organisations, and innovators from around the world will be celebrated.
Mark Clayton, Chairman of BritCham South China, added:
“Congratulations to Mike and the entire Education Working Group for this richly deserved recognition. The nomination is a testament to Mike’s unwavering dedication, vision, and leadership, as well as the tireless commitment of all involved. We are incredibly proud to see the Chamber’s values and community spirit celebrated on a global stage.”
The winners of the GESS Education Awards will be announced at the international ceremony in Dubai on 12 November 2025, where leading schools, organisations, and education innovators from around the world will be celebrated.
Also flying the flag for South China is ISA Liwan, a member school of BritCham South China and an active contributor to the Education Working Group, who has been shortlisted for the STEAM Learning in the Classroom category, recognising their pioneering work in innovation and environmental education.
