Name: Robert Markwick

Position at GSIS: CAS coordinator / biology teacher

Years at GSIS: 24

Could you briefly introduce yourself (background & profession)?

I grew up in Melbourne, Australia and graduated from Rusden College (now Victoria College) with a bachelor's degree in education and environmental science. My majors were biology, geography, earth sciences, and math. I initially taught biology in Australia for several years before moving to HK. In HK I taught at another international school for three years and then ended up here at GSIS.

Tell us about your work experience at GSIS. When did you come to GSIS and what is your role there?

I came to GSIS in 1998 and taught biology and science in the lower grades. We taught in old-fashioned laboratories in the old Upper Building. At that time the teacher was still standing on a pedestal in the front part of the room and using chalkboards.

I immediately saw how much fun the students have in class and that they are passionate about learning new things. My fondest memories are many of the wonderful Discovery Weeks and other excursions - seeing how the students climb Mt. Kinabalu, paddle across the Ganges, watch the migration of animals in the Serengeti, build schools in Chiang Mai, swim in the Mekong in Laos and go on ski trips to Austria and Switzerland.

The students' concern to help others really inspired me in my role as CAS coordinator. Our students have given back not only to the GSIS community through mentoring programs, but also to the community in Hong Kong and around the world.

What do you like most about working at GSIS?

GSIS is an inspiring place to work, which is why I've been here for 24 years. The students are mindful and empathetic and show a real interest in others and the world in which they live.

What was your most memorable GSIS moment?

I've seen quite a few friends and colleagues leave since I started school: Craig Jackson, Steve Ellis, Gay Stevens. I miss them very much. Many other colleagues have moved on, with whom I am still in contact and who have become friends for life. Those are the memories that stand out for me the most, the wonderful friends and colleagues.

When you're not teaching, what do you do in your free time?

I have already visited over 50 countries and I never tire of getting to know new places, different cuisines and different cultures.

Where did you grow up and what was your own school experience like?

I grew up in the suburbs of Melbourne and attended a local high school. I was very involved in sports there. My entire family has always been very athletic, and we have all been active in a variety of sports.

Which former students or employees of GSIS did you stay in contact with?

Every now and then I meet former students in HK and it's nice to chat, get to know their families and hear what they are doing. I may not remember all of their names, but I seldom forget a face!

Who has had the greatest influence on you so far during your time at GSIS?

My biggest influences at GSIS have always been the students. Your commitment and valuable contribution to the community have led me to take on the role of CAS coordinator. I am never disappointed with the dedication and dedication they show.

What are your plans for the future?

Continue to enjoy working at GSIS and finally get back on a plane for a new adventure after COVID.

_______________________________________________________________

Name: Robert Markwick

Role at GSIS: CAS Coordinator / Biology Teacher

Years at GSIS: 24

Could you introduce yourself a bit (background & profession)?

I grew up in Melbourne Australia and attended Rusden College (now Victoria College) and did a Bachelor Degree in Education and Environment Science. I majored in Biology, Geography, Earth Science and Mathematics. I taught Biology in Australia for several years prior to relocating to HK. I first taught at another international school in HK for three years and then ended up here at GSIS.

Tell us about your working experience at GSIS? When did you join GSIS and what is your role at the school?

I joined GSIS in 1998 and taught Biology and junior Sciences. We taught in the old upper building in old fashioned science labs. Back then the teacher was up on a platform in the front of the room and used rolling chalk boards. I instantly found that the GSIS students are great fun and had a passion to learn.

My favorite memories are many of the wonderful Discovery Week and other trips I attended. Seeing students climb Mt Kinabalu, rafting the Ganges, watching the animal migration in the Serengeti, building schools in Chiang Mai, swimming in the Mekong in Laos and ski trips to Austria and Switzerland. Seeing the passion GSIS students have to help others has truly been inspiring in my role as CAS Coordinator. Our students have given back not only to the GSIS community through mentor programs but also to the Hong Kong and global communities around the world.

What do you like most about working at GSIS?

GSIS is an inspiring place to work, hence my 24 years here. The students are caring and empathetic, and show true concerns for others and the world they live in.

What has been your most memorable GSIS moment?

I have lost several friends and colleagues whilst here; Craig Jackson, Steve Ellis, Gay Stevens. They are sadly missed. Many other colleagues have moved on and I still keep in contact with and are lifetime friends. These are the memories that most stand out for me, the wonderful friends and colleagues I have met.

If you are not busy teaching, what do you like to do in your spare time?

Without covid I love to travel, I have visited over 50 countries and never get tired of experiencing new places, food and cultures.

Where did you grow up and how was your schooling experience?

I grew up in suburban Melbourne and attended a local high school. I was very much involved in sports. My family was very sporty and we all played a variety of different sports.

Which former students or staff members that you met at GSIS have you stayed in touch with?

I continually meet past students in HK and it's so great to chat and meet their families and hear what they are doing. I may not remember all their names but I rarely forget a face!

Who had the greatest influence on you during your time at GSIS?

My greatest influences at GSIS have been the students. Their passion for service and giving back has led me to take on the CAS Coordinator Role. I am never disappointed in the dedication and commitment they show.

What are your plans for the future?

Keep enjoying GSIS and finally get back on a plane for a new adventure after COVID.