News
Meet Chris, A Senior Monitor. We spoke to Chris to learn more about his role and life at Mill Hill School.
How long have you been at Mill Hill School?
I joined Mill Hill School when I was in Remove, as an international pupil. I came over from Taiwan. It has been interesting to learn about the differences between the Taiwanese and British cultures. For example, in Taiwan, we stay in the same classroom for all of our lessons, but at Mill Hill School we move around the whole building throughout the day; this is good preparation for university.
What does your role as Senior Monitor involve?
My key role as a Senior Monitor is to represent the pupil body while being considerate of the pupils’ welfare and school policies. I meet with the Head, and the members of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) on a weekly basis to discuss pupils’ opinions. I also liaise with staff members to help support my fellow pupils both academically and pastorally. This has particularly improved my communication and leadership skills.
I also represent the school in public events such as Open Morning and Foundation Day. These events have not only developed my public speaking skills, but also my confidence when it comes to engaging with parents, pupils, and staff. I am also a boarder at the school. I meet with the boarders to discuss what is working well and what can be improved. I then spend time with Mr Taylor (Foundation Head of Boarding) to help decide what changes should be made.
I am particularly proud of how the interaction has improved between boarding and day pupils during my time here. I gave a speech to encourage boarders to invite day pupils into their houses. Since then, I have seen more visitors in our boarding house and I feel that the boarding community has become more inclusive and inviting.
What is your favourite thing about Mill Hill School?
The range of co-curricular activities! There are more than 200 activities and clubs offered by the school. There is truly something for everyone at Mill Hill School. If you are interested in something you can go to a member of staff and they will help make it happen. So if you want to try something, get involved!
Do you have any advice for our pupils which could help them to get the most out of their time at Mill Hill School?
Do not hesitate to take up any opportunities on offer during your time at Mill Hill School, because this is a school that nurtures your personal qualities.
Can you tell us something that we might not know about you?
I have not been back home for more than two years due to Covid-19 restrictions. The boarding community has been a massive help to me during this time. Everyone may come from different backgrounds but we are similar because we have all travelled to the UK and are living away from home. We do lots of fun activities, go on a range of trips and meet for a house assembly every evening. This makes my boarding house feel like a home away from home. I have made lifelong friends with the pupils in my house.
What is your favourite book or film and why?
My favourite book is The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. I love that the characters thrive and live happy lives despite their illnesses. This message massively inspired me when I read it at the age of 13. I really enjoy the Harry Potter films because I like the house system; it reminds me of Mill Hill School. It is great to see the house pride shown by the characters because that is how I feel about my house!
Finally, could you share an inspirational quote with us? How does it inspire you?
“It is your attitude, not your aptitude, that determines your altitude.” Zig Ziglar. This quote reminds me that the way you approach a situation determines your success.
