Please state your full name and your position here at Marlborough College Malaysia.
Polly Havenhand, Prep School Teacher KS1 & KS2.
How long have you been at MCM?
I arrived on Monday, 10th August to the biggest, warmest MCM welcome!
Could you share a little about your background, family, hobbies, and anything else that’s important to you?
I’m originally from England, but I have been very fortunate to live in a number of different countries, including Turkey, France, Switzerland, Greece, the Virgin Islands, Hong Kong and Singapore. We have three young children, who have also joined MCM, so this is very much a family adventure for us!
Outside school, I adore sailing, kayaking and pretty much anything water-based. I also love spending time with my family, travelling, being outdoors and exploring new places. I’m a very creative person and particularly enjoy making learning engaging, colourful and memorable for children.
Why Marlborough College Malaysia and why Malaysia?
Marlborough College Malaysia really stood out to me because of its strong sense of community, its beautiful environment and the breadth of opportunities it gives children beyond the classroom. I love the emphasis on developing the whole child, confidence, curiosity, independence and kindness alongside academic learning. Having lived in Asia for many years, Malaysia felt like an exciting next chapter for our family, and we are really looking forward to becoming part of the MCM community and discovering beautiful Malaysia.
Can you describe your experiences and achievements in your current/previous role?
In my previous roles, I have focused on creating happy, purposeful classrooms where children feel safe, valued and confident to learn. I have supported strong progress in literacy and mathematics while also helping children develop independence, resilience and a willingness to have a go. I particularly value educating the whole child and have seen how opportunities beyond the classroom, including sport, outdoor learning and creative activities, can build confidence, teamwork and curiosity. This is something that is also very personal to me. I am a qualified skipper, with experience leading large sailing flotillas as well as crewing yachts, and the teamwork, communication, responsibility and resilience involved have helped shape who I am. Those experiences have reinforced my belief in the importance of working together, supporting others and giving everyone the confidence to play their part.
Do you have any new or exciting initiatives or events that you’re looking forward to this academic year?
As I’m brand new to MCM, there is so much I’m looking forward to! I’m particularly excited about getting to know my Tiger Class and creating a classroom where the children feel that it really belongs to them. I’m looking forward to making the most of all the wonderful opportunities at MCM, including learning outdoors, Forest School and the wider College community. Most of all, I’m excited to see the children grow in confidence and independence throughout Year 1.
Is there a message you’d like to leave for the pupils, staff, or parents?
I’m incredibly excited to be joining MCM and feel very lucky to be beginning this new chapter with Tiger Class. To the children: be brave, be curious, be kind and never be afraid to have a go. Mistakes are part of learning! To parents and colleagues, I’m really looking forward to getting to know you and working together to make this a happy, memorable and successful year for the children.
