At Suzhou Experimental High School, John Sexton leads one of Dipont’s Advanced Placement (AP) centers. His role as Center Principal blends leadership, teaching support and university preparation, with one clear goal: helping every student make real progress and reach the right university.
A close-knit international team
John leads a team of six international teachers covering science, math and the humanities, and works with Chinese colleagues responsible for the program. Because the center is small, its leadership team works side by side on most decisions. “We’re all hands on deck,” John explains, adding that larger centers may organize themselves differently.
The center is also supported by Dipont’s head office, including regular contact with the Deputy Director of Education, Leo McArdle, and practical help with everything from training to resources.
Supporting teachers so students succeed
Much of John’s time goes into helping teachers prepare students for the milestones that lead to university: above all the AP exams held every May, as well as English language exams such as TOEFL and IELTS. Regular teaching and learning meetings keep the team focused on what works in the classroom.
John’s background in educational technology proved valuable when teaching moved online, and he helped colleagues adapt quickly. With classes back in person, the focus is firmly on teaching quality and exam readiness.
A demanding but flexible program
Students follow individual pathways rather than a single fixed route. In a typical year, around half of Grade 11 students take four AP exams, often including Economics, Calculus and Physics, and about three quarters take at least one. By Grade 12, almost every student has taken an AP exam, and the introduction of AP Precalculus is likely to make that universal.
Where students go next
Most graduates go on to universities in the United States, particularly on the East and West Coasts, with growing numbers further inland. A smaller group choose Australia.
What success looks like
For John, the role comes down to making sure every student keeps moving forward:
“I think there are a few things I focus on achieving. Ultimately, I want to ensure that our students get the best possible education and university offers. To do this, we need to make sure that they are making progress through the year – developing their English ability, study skills and growing as people, and making great strides every year. So that’s really my focus.”
