We are pleased to introduce Ms. Savanna Van der Merwe, who teaches Year 6 and KS2 PE in our Prep School.
Ms. Van der Merwe brings enthusiasm, care, and a strong belief in teamwork to both her classroom and PE lessons. Her approach focuses on helping pupils enjoy learning, work collaboratively, and develop the skills they need to succeed both academically and socially.
Read on to discover more about her teaching philosophy, inspirations, and what she is most looking forward to this year.
Q&A with Ms. Van der Merwe
Tell us about your role at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
I am a Year 6 and KS2 PE teacher this year and on Mondays I coach hockey as my ECA.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I always wanted to help children and make learning fun and interesting to them. Seeing them enjoy learning is the best part!
How would you describe your teaching style?
I would say my teaching style is student-centered and collaborative because I want to tailor the teaching and learning to the individual needs, which fosters independence. Through collaborative learning it builds teamwork and communication skills.
What’s one thing you hope students take away from your teaching?
How important it is to communicate correctly, work as a team to come to a common goal and understand everyone is different.
What do you love about Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong?
The school fosters a positive work environment for the children. They are able to learn and grow independently and know that the teachers are there for the children.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities, school events, or initiatives?
On Mondays I coach hockey!
What book, movie, or song would you recommend to your students—and why?
A movie I would recommend is Kicking & Screaming (2005), starring Will Ferrell.
Plot: A mild-mannered dad becomes the coach of his son’s chaotic soccer team and slowly turns into a competitive maniac. Think sports meets slapstick.
Why it works: It’s packed with soccer action, goofy humour, and a message about teamwork and family!
What are your hobbies or interests outside of school? What is a fun fact about yourself?
My hobbies and interests are playing hockey and cooking. A fun fact is that I love being girly but could be in sport clothes all day too!
What are you looking forward to most this year?
At school it is getting to know my students better and build strong connections!
Ms. Van der Merwe’s reflections highlight the importance of enjoyment and connection in learning. Through her student-centred and team-focused approach, she supports pupils in developing independence, communication skills, and a sense of belonging — both in the classroom and through sport.
We are delighted to have Ms. Van der Merwe as part of the WASHK Prep School team and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make.
Stay tuned for more introductions in our Introducing Our New Teachers Series as we continue to welcome exceptional educators to Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
