Established in 1958 Methodist College stands proudly in Kowloon Hong Kong. Its story begins not with grand pronouncements but with a simple idea. A group of Methodist Church leaders envisioned a school. They wanted to continue educating graduates of Methodist School. This vision blossomed into Methodist College.
The initial building was modest. It contained only twelve classrooms. Yet it was a remarkable start. In September 1958 the first students arrived. Three hundred and twelve students filled eight classes. They ranged from Form 1 to Form 4. Twelve teachers guided them led by the first principal Mr Lee Lin Chi. Their aim was a close-knit community. Teachers and students would know each other well.
From its inception Methodist College held a unique status. It was a grant school. This positioned it alongside Hong Kong’s most established schools. Sir Robert Black the then Governor officially opened it on November 1st 1958. This day became Founders’ Day.
The college quickly grew. Its first Form 5 students took the Hong Kong School Leaving Certificate Examination in 1960. Lower Form 6 began the same year. The school expanded. Extracurricular activities flourished. Clubs and societies were formed. The Student Union emerged in 1960. It was a first for Hong Kong schools. Lam Kiu Sum a Form 5 student was its inaugural president. The Student Christian Fellowship also took shape.
In 1961 the school published its first magazine. It featured John Wesley the founder of Methodism on horseback. The magazine was aptly named Wesley reflecting the school’s spirit. The college needed more space. A North Wing was added in 1963 providing five more classrooms. Expansion continued to accommodate a growing student body.
The college faced challenges. Traffic noise prompted the installation of air conditioners. The Silver Jubilee Fund-Raising Campaign in 1983 helped fund this. Further renovations and expansions followed. The South Wing was built in 2005 adding more classrooms and a Student Activity Centre. In 2011 an East Wing opened further expanding the college’s facilities.
Methodist College has a rich history. It is a testament to the vision of its founders. The college stands as a beacon of education in Hong Kong. It continues its legacy of academic excellence and community spirit. Its evolution showcases its commitment to adaptation and growth. It’s more than a school. It is a community. It is a place of learning. And it is a testament to perseverance and faith.