On 4 September 2026, the BritCham Shanghai Education Committee hosted the “EduConnect Welcome Mixer – Bridging New Teachers to Classrooms & Careers” at RAY’S The Private. As the new academic year got underway, the event brought together seasoned educators, new teachers, school leaders and EdTech innovators for an evening of networking, connection and conversation about the future of learning in Shanghai.
The evening was opened with welcome remarks from Stuart Perrin, Chief Officer of (Education) Ecology at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) and Chair of the BritCham Education Committee, who set the tone for the night and welcomed the room of educators back for the start of a new academic year.
Following the welcome, guests moved into three hosted, thematic networking tables, each introduced briefly by its host before attendees rotated through to explore the topics that mattered most to them.
Thematic Networking Tables
Community and Connection — hosted by Peter Murison, Second Master at Wellington College International Shanghai, this table focused on building community and connection among educators, drawing on his own experience moving into a new school system and the importance of a strong support network for teachers settling into life and work in Shanghai.
AI in EdTech — hosted by Stuart Perrin, Chief Officer of (Education) Ecology at XJTLU, this table explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping education technology, touching on the opportunities and challenges AI presents for teaching and learning environments.
Preparing Students for Art and Design Careers in the Age of AI — hosted by Helena Kidacka, Founder and Lead Portfolio Consultant at Creative Degree Path, this table drew on her 15+ years across the fashion industries of London, New York and Shanghai to discuss how art and design educators can help students build portfolios and skillsets that remain relevant as AI transforms creative careers.
BritCham Shanghai remains committed to supporting the education community — helping new and seasoned educators alike connect, share, and inspire one another as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of teaching in Shanghai.
