Mark Beach
Interim Head of School
Mark Beach joins UWC Thailand for the 2024-25 academic year as Interim Head of School, providing the school time to appoint a new Head of School by July 2025. Mark holds a Master of Arts from Auckland University and teaching qualifications from Auckland Teachers Training College. Originally from New Zealand, he has extensive experience as a teacher and principal in New Zealand, Tonga, Qatar, and Hong Kong. Mark was the foundation principal of Discovery College in Hong Kong from 2007 to 2019 and has since worked with CIS and IB, along with various educational consultancies.
Mark believes in schools as learning communities, united by a common vision, values, culture, and shared understanding. He has moved to Phuket with his partner and enjoys surfing, reading, and spending time with family and friends. An avid runner, Mark has completed several marathons and is currently enjoying trail running.
Mark's favourite quote:
“People from all walks of life and young people in particular are demanding a future that directs more attention to the human and spiritual dimensions of existence and less to short-term materialism and utilitarian attitudes. They are asking for a purpose that has the power to restore their faith in themselves and humankind."
~ Richard David Hames