Simon Burbury’s journey in education is one marked by dedication, a wide range of experiences, and a passion for nurturing young minds. His career has taken him across continents, from Egypt to Scotland and finally to Malaysia, where he currently serves as the Master of Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM). Appointed on August 1, 2023, Burbury is deeply honored to lead one of the world’s most respected institutions, describing his experience so far as “rewarding, humbling, inspiring, and a whole lot of fun.” With a diverse background in music, sports, and adventure, he brings a unique blend of talents to the educational landscape.
From Music Teacher to Head of Marlborough College Malaysia
Burbury’s journey in education began as a music teacher in Egypt, followed by his role as Director of Music in Singapore. With a passion for student well-being, he eventually transitioned into an Assistant Head role in Scotland, where he focused on pastoral care. His experiences culminated in senior leadership roles, including Senior Deputy Head and Head of Boarding, before taking up the position of Master at MCM.
Throughout his career, he has been driven by a desire to foster a supportive and stimulating environment for students, encouraging them to reach beyond their limits. Marlborough College Malaysia’s vibrant community, set against the serene backdrop of the Malaysian landscape, perfectly aligns with Burbury’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that are as challenging as they are rewarding.
An Adventurer’s Spirit: From Marathons to Ultra-Marathons
Burbury’s commitment to pushing his own limits is exemplified by his participation in the Marathon des Sables (MdS), often referred to as “the toughest footrace on Earth.” His journey as a runner began two decades ago when he set out to improve his fitness, initially struggling with short distances. Through persistence, he eventually ran the London Marathon in 2010, then continued to challenge himself by running ultra-marathons.
The MdS was the ultimate test, featuring grueling desert landscapes, salt plains, and scorching temperatures. Burbury describes it as an “extraordinary experience,” where the camaraderie among participants was as memorable as the physical challenge. His resilience, determination, and ability to find joy in adversity are qualities he instills in his students.
An Eclectic Background in Music, Diving, and Naval Service
Beyond education and athletics, Burbury has pursued several other passions, including concert piano performance, scuba diving, and naval training. His first visit to Malaysia was as a concert pianist, performing Rachmaninov’s 2nd Piano Concerto with the DBKL Symphony Orchestra, a testament to his serious commitment to music. During his years in Egypt, he also developed a love for scuba diving and became a certified instructor, guiding students on diving excursions in the Red Sea.
In addition, Burbury served as a naval officer, where he trained cadets in activities such as sailing and powerboating. This diverse background not only enriched his life but also equipped him with a broad set of skills and experiences that he draws upon in his role as an educator. He sees these interests as complementary to his work, enhancing his ability to offer students unique learning experiences.
Embracing Technology in Modern Education
Reflecting on the rapid evolution of technology, Burbury acknowledges how vastly education has transformed. He recalls his own school days, where encyclopedias filled the role of today’s internet. Now, he envisions technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), as a tool that, when used thoughtfully, can revolutionize learning by providing virtual tutors for students and virtual assistants for teachers. By harnessing AI, he believes that classrooms can shift from knowledge-based to skills-based learning environments, tailored to the individual needs of each student.
Preparing Students for the Future
In a rapidly changing world, Burbury emphasizes the importance of preparing students for a future filled with uncertainty. His approach is to cultivate resilience, emotional intelligence, and a proactive mindset. While academic excellence is important, he believes that co-curricular activities—ranging from arts to sports and service programs—play a crucial role in developing “grit” and the ability to adapt to different challenges. His own journey is a testament to this belief, as he continuously sought experiences outside his comfort zone, learning valuable life skills along the way.
Marlborough College Malaysia: A World-Class Institution
Burbury holds a deep admiration for Marlborough College Malaysia, which has been recognized internationally for its excellence. Recently awarded “International School of the Year 2024” and named among the top 100 private schools globally, MCM combines the best of British independent schooling traditions with the strong work ethic and respectfulness of Asian culture. Burbury believes this blend of East and West, combined with the school’s spacious and dynamic campus, creates an unparalleled environment for learning, which he describes as the “Marlborough Spirit.”
The school’s holistic approach to education is something Burbury takes great pride in. He notes that the boarding experience provides students with 24/7 access to dedicated educators, preparing them for life beyond school with independence and confidence.
Leading Through Challenges
Burbury’s leadership skills were put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with the complexities of managing a school community during unprecedented times, he led initiatives to support students’ mental health and continued learning, such as transforming a local outdoor center into a quarantine facility. This allowed students to access education while feeling less isolated, despite the restrictions. His ability to adapt, innovate, and maintain a sense of humor helped him guide MCM through one of the most challenging periods in recent history.
Inspiring Creativity and Critical Thinking
For Burbury, creativity is the cornerstone of education. He believes that students need to learn how to think differently, question norms, and collaborate effectively. To foster these skills, he creates real-world learning opportunities, such as a recent project where Year 8 students developed a business plan for MCM’s lake area, which included conducting research, creating promotional videos, and presenting their ideas to the senior management team. Through such interdisciplinary, hands-on projects, students develop both creativity and critical thinking skills.
Influences and Inspirations
While Burbury’s initial ambition was to become a musician, his life took a turn when he was given the responsibility of leading a children’s wind band at age 18. This experience sparked his love for teaching and working with young people, which continued throughout his studies and ultimately guided him into education. He credits his background in music for instilling in him the qualities of leadership, teamwork, and empathy, which have been instrumental in his career progression from musician to headmaster.
Vision for the Future of Education
Burbury’s vision for MCM is one of continuous improvement and excellence. He aims to establish a world-class Professional Learning Centre for MCM’s educators, known as “Beaks,” to ensure they are equipped with the latest research and pedagogical tools. His goal is for MCM to be the top choice for families seeking a British-style education with an international perspective. He also values the unique opportunities that boarding provides, allowing students to develop independence and refine their academic and social skills under the guidance of dedicated teachers.
A Message to Students: “Be Kind, Work Hard, Get Involved”
Burbury’s message to students around the world is simple yet profound: “Be Kind, Work Hard, Get Involved.” He encourages students to embrace challenges, step outside their comfort zones, and, above all, contribute positively to their communities. His journey, marked by resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning, serves as an inspiring example for students and educators alike. Under his leadership, Marlborough College Malaysia is well-positioned to continue providing a transformative educational experience for generations to come.