We are delighted to introduce Mr. Jason Van der Merwe, Head of Sport and Physical Education in the Prep School at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong (WASHK).
At WASHK, sport plays an essential role in shaping not only physical ability, but character, resilience, and community spirit. Mr. Van der Merwe leads our physical education curriculum and core sports programme with a clear vision: to create an environment where every pupil feels confident to participate, challenge themselves, and develop a lifelong appreciation for active wellbeing.
Read on to learn more about his journey into teaching, his approach to sport and physical education, and what he hopes pupils gain from their time on the field and in the gym.
Q&A with Mr. Jason Van der Merwe
Tell us about your role at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
I am the Head of Sport and Physical Education at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong. My role involves overseeing the physical education curriculum, coordinating the core sports programme, and ensuring that students have opportunities to develop their physical skills, teamwork, and love for an active lifestyle.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I’ve always been passionate about sport and its power to bring people together. I was inspired by my own coaches and teachers who saw potential in me and encouraged me to pursue both academic and athletic excellence. I wanted to give that same encouragement to young people.
How would you describe your teaching style?
Energetic, inclusive, and student-centred. I believe in learning through doing, so my lessons are active and hands-on. I aim to create a supportive environment where every student feels confident to participate and challenge themselves.
What’s one thing you hope students take away from your teaching?
I hope students take away a lifelong appreciation for physical activity and wellbeing. Beyond the skills, I want them to understand the value of teamwork, perseverance, and looking after both their physical and mental health.
What do you love about Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong?
I love the sense of community and the school’s commitment to holistic education. There is genuine care for each student’s development, not just academically but personally and physically. The enthusiasm of the students and the support from colleagues make it a fantastic place to work.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities, school events, or initiatives?
Yes, I lead the core sports programme that the school offers. It involves different year groups taking part in a range of sporting activities throughout the year. I am also involved in organising the school’s Sports Days and am always keen to get students involved in physical activity beyond the classroom.
What book, movie, or song would you recommend to your students—and why?
I would recommend the film The Incredibles. It is a fun and exciting story about a family who works as a team and uses their unique strengths to help one another. It shows that everyone has special talents, and when we work together, we can achieve amazing things, just like in sport.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of school? What is a fun fact about yourself?
Outside of school, I love staying active, especially playing hockey, which I have played for many years. I also enjoy hiking in the cooler months and pushing myself in the gym. A fun fact about me is that I have played hockey in two different countries and once competed in a provincial club hockey tournament!
What are you looking forward to most this year?
I am looking forward to building on our sports programme and seeing students grow in confidence and skill. I am especially excited for the upcoming Sports Day and to continue fostering a strong sporting culture at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
Mr. Van der Merwe’s reflections highlight the powerful role sport plays in developing confidence, discipline, and community. Through active participation, teamwork, and encouragement, he aims to ensure that every pupil discovers both enjoyment and growth in physical education.
Stay tuned for more introductions in our Introducing Our New Teachers series as we continue to celebrate the educators who enrich learning at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
