DCSL Recognised for Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership

Given the importance of gender equality and inclusive leadership everywhere in the world, Dulwich College Seoul (DCSL) has distinguished itself as a pioneer of progress in Korea’s international education sector. 

Located in Seoul’s Seocho district, the British international school is home to 700 students aged 3 to 18 representing over 46 nationalities. Over the past academic year, DCSL has implemented a series of initiatives focused on advancing gender equity. 

These efforts were recognized at the recent inaugural Korea Business Awards, hosted by the British Chamber of Commerce in Korea (BCCK). The school was shortlisted for the prestigious “Responsible Business of the Year” award, which honors demonstrating excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), or Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices.  

The event, held as part of the BCCK’s King’s Birthday Dinner, brought together around 300 guests representing over 120 member companies, including both British firms operating in Korea and Korean companies with ties to the UK and Europe. 

DCSL was recognized for its leadership in driving gender equity, particularly through its role in hosting the WISE25 Women’s Leadership Conference. 

Launched in Manila in 2024, the WISE initiative serves as a global platform to promote female empowerment in international education. The second WISE conference was hosted on the DCSL campus in February. It welcomed 150 delegates from 18 countries for two days of dynamic programming, featuring 99 sessions and 22 bespoke workshops. 

“Dulwich College Seoul’s leadership team is setting a critical example for gender equality in an industry where an all-female academic leadership team is exceptionally rare,” said BCCK CEO Lucinda Walker who had been a participant at WISE25. 

Speaking at the King’s Birthday Dinner event, Walker commended DCSL for its forward-thinking approach. “The team has amplified the message of women's empowerment among educators globally. It was a highly inspiring and impactful experience, and I’m thrilled that Dulwich was shortlisted. It is richly deserved.” 

Indeed, the recognition also highlighted a historic milestone at DCSL: all three of its top academic leadership positions are currently held by women. The 2024–2025 academic year marked the first full year under the leadership of Head of College Alison Derbyshire, the school’s first female leader since its founding in 2010. 

“I am so proud that Dulwich College Seoul was recognized for its leadership around female empowerment in the international school sector,” Derbyshire said. “It reaffirms our commitment to fostering a world where women are empowered to pursue diverse paths to leadership.” 

Derbyshire noted that the success of WISE25 was driven in large part by Jane Smith, Head of Primary School, and Suzanne Pugh, Head of Senior School.  

“Jane and Suzanne did a tremendous job of bringing together delegates from around the world and creating a powerful experience,” she said. “The conference had a profound impact on female empowerment and also on the promotion of intercultural understanding and collaboration. It affirmed our values and inspired attendees to return to their communities and lead change.” 

In addition to WISE25, DCSL is actively participating in the Empower program. This year-long initiative, organized by the British Embassy in Korea and the BCCK, supports mid-career women in building leadership skills, confidence, and networks. DCSL sponsored a staff member last year and plans to continue its involvement as Empower enters its third year. 

The program’s leader, Elspeth Stewart, was also recognized at the BCCK Business Awards, having been shortlisted for the Chair’s Award for Personal Contribution, further underscoring the ecosystem of gender-focused leadership taking shape across Korea’s business and education sectors. 

The broader message of DCSL’s recognition is clear: meaningful progress toward gender equality in education is a win-win for all. 

As schools across the globe grapple with inclusion, representation, and equity, Dulwich College Seoul offers a compelling blueprint for action—one built not only on symbolic representation, but also on concrete initiatives and lasting institutional commitment. 

“As we prepare for a new academic year, we remain committed to deepening our DEI work, expanding our partnerships, and nurturing a new generation of globally minded, equity-conscious learners,” Derbyshire said. “With initiatives like WISE25 and Empower, and now this recognition from the BCCK, we feel well positioned to continue leading as a progressive force for gender equality.” 
 

This story was featured on Business Korea.
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