Thank you all for your dedicated efforts in your respective roles, striving forward with passion and focus. Over the past year, despite the challenges of declining birth rates and economic downturn, we have achieved remarkable results. I extend my deepest gratitude and respect to every one of you. Our comprehensive educational system has driven the advancement of education. Witnessing students' brilliant and confident performances within rich learning environments, alongside the heartwarming smiles of parents, further solidify our reputation and bring our educational vision to life. Thank you for your hard work!
Looking Back at 2025:
Training and Team Building
In 2025, we conducted 69 training sessions attended by 2,982 CTs and NSTs. We also completed 13 promotion and advancement programs involving 185 colleagues. Ensuring professional excellence and teaching effectiveness in the classroom remains our responsibility. At HESS, people are our greatest asset. Building a happy team has always been our belief.Beyond team-building activities, we hosted nine largescale employee gatherings and regional family days at the Yangmingshan Garden Classroom, inviting the HESS Family to connect with nature.
Curriculum and Advancement
1. Preschool
We completed the development of the Premium Program Stargazers which will gradually be rolled out across HESS Preschools in 2026.
2. ESL School
We have continued to improve Educational Fairs and implement the five-stage HESS English framework in conjunction with Parents Day events to support the ESL program growth.
3. Anchin Program
We have empowered more than 100 math teachers through professional trainings and guided over 4,000 lower-level students in discovering the joy of math learning.
Operations and Development
1. Sunshine Daycare Centers:
The Keelung Sunshine Daycare Center opened in 2025, with the 6-star Rongfu Flagship Center expected to open in 2026 elevating the brand to new heights.
2. New Schools on the Horizons
Three new campuses: Taipei Ren-ai Branch, Linkou Ruide Learning Center, and the newly renovated Xuefu Kindergarten joined our network.The Taichung Beitun Education Center, had its grand opening on January 18, 2026, exemplifying the perfect fusion of spatial aesthetics and educational practice.
3. Overseas Development
We extend our gratitude to the Singapore campus for its dedicated efforts, which earned last year's Singapore Summer Camp a perfect satisfaction rating. Congratulations also to HESS Singapore Kindergarten on its official launch. The Shanghai campus expanded its operations by adding new floors last year, beginning a new chapter in its development.
4. Yangmingshan Garden Classroom
There were over 10,000 visitors, including students from Japan's Senjin Girls' High School to the Yangmingshan Garden Classroom in 2025. Students from various HESS locations engaged in enriching learning at the Yangmingshan Garden Classroom showing the significance of the location.
5. REEDS Brand Development
New facilities were opened at Shilin and Taichung Da-dun in 2025. In 2026 facilities will be established at Xinzhuang Rongfu, Taichung Meitsun, and Taichung Beitun.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Let us encourage one another—putting people first, expressing gratitude, and inspiring each other. When facing challenges, we will humbly reflect and respond courageously, continuously building a strong and happy team. Simultaneously, let us focus on student learning, return to the core purpose of education, prioritize teaching and service quality, and ensure that education rooted in love becomes a warm foundation for children to enjoy learning. By guaranteeing each child's healthy development and achievement, we pursue excellence to deepen our reputation and courageously chase our dreams! Let us all strive together!
HESS Distinguished Employee of the Year candidates are selected carefully and awarded according to their outstanding performance. Every year the selecting and awarding of HESS distinguished employee is aimed to promote the positive attitude of these winners. We want to encourage other employees to continue.
Four months ago I moved from Scotland to work on the opposite side of the world, stepping fully into the challenges of teaching. With strong support from colleagues, and ongoing professional training, I have made a confident start. Teaching preschool and ESL5 students is rewarding, as both the creative challenges, as well as the student progress, continually motivate me to grow as an educator.
I appreciate the opportunity to receive this award. It has been such a great opportunity to be a part of the HESS team and meet so many amazing people from around the world. I look forward to continuing to grow with HESS and embracing new opportunities together. Thank you, everyone.
Branch 服務單位 YanJi Preschool
First Day 到職日 20230831
Position 職稱 NST
Richard A. Benton
I am happy to receive this award, and thank all the team members who helped me do my job well. It is great to be part of a team that supports each other. I enjoy meeting a challenge and seeing projects and events be successful. I hope I can continue to grow and be better in the future!
I am truly honored to receive this award on behalf of the SanMin Branch.Teaching our young learners has been a joyful and inspiring journey.I would like to thank my fellow teachers for their collaboration and encouragement. This award is not only a personal honor but also a reflection of the strong teamwork in our kindergarten. I will continue to do my best to create a loving, safe, and engaging learning environment where each child feels seen and valued. Thank you!
Branch 服務單位
Taipei SanMin Preschool
First Day 到職日 20230831
Position 職稱 NST
Employee of the year
優秀員工
Reece Brownbill
Through last semester's work, I gained a deeper understanding of team dynamics and the importance of maintaining clear expectations. These experiences have helped me grow both professionally and personally, and I will continue to reflect on how to support the school more effectively.
I am lucky enough to have one of the best teams I have ever worked with at Hess. My team is incredibly organized, very supportive, and fun to work with. They are the reason I am able to try new ideas, explore new methods and challenge myself. Hess is a family, and my Hess family is the best there is.
I started working in the Dazhi area three years ago. It has been an amazing learning experience. I have been able to work with some incredible people. I have gotten to try new things and implement different projects at my school and in my classes. Branch 服務單位 明水分校
Being able to see groups of students over longer periods of time has absolutely been the highlight of my time working in Taiwan. It’ s bittersweet to see them grow and graduate, but I’ m very proud of them, and thankful to be their teacher. As a HNST, having a job with managers who I trust, who trust me, and who all have common goals is exceptionally valuable, and I do not take it for granted.
This year has been a successful and rewarding period of teaching. One thing that I have loved from both of my classes this year is that the children are so natural at speaking English, and they ask fascinating questions to learn more about the themes. I've seen the progress with the students every day, and the positive encouragement I have given them inspires my students to always try their best!
Branch 服務單位
新湖幼校
First Day 到職日 20100815
Position 職稱 NST
Employee of the year
優秀員工
Rend Schindler
Working at Hess has pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. From supporting teachers to teaching students, this role has helped me turn challenges into strengths. I love helping teachers make small improvements and seeing students grow. My goal is simple: leave people a little more confident and supported each day. Thank you for the nomination.
Branch 服務單位 新湖分校
First Day 到職日 20231108
Position 職稱 Head NST
Katharine Anne Vesper
韋凱安
Staying with Xinhu branch and teaching young learners over many years has given me the rare gift of watching children grow not only for a year, but across seasons, siblings, and entire family journeys. The relationships, trust, and shared history with the school have been some of the most meaningful parts of my work, reminding me how deeply early childhood teaching is rooted in connection.
I have learned so much throughout my time at Hess. I am very grateful for the many opportunities that I have been given. I continuously try to grow as a teacher and as a support system for my coworkers.
I have worked as an English educator for the past 9 years at various levels. Starting at HESS, I returned to teaching young learners and enjoyed observing the growth of students at our branches.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to be an English Teacher here. Being able to spend time with these curious and pure souls is truly wonderful. Each student has their own unique desires and ways of expressing themselves. From them, I've learned how to work with different kinds of personalities. Interacting with them has really been a blessing.
Branch 服務單位 西湖分校
First Day 到職日 20230828
Position 職稱 教務小組長
Erik Joel West
Since working at Hess, I’ve been grateful for having such supportive staff, co-teachers, and managers to help me grow as an educator. I feel working here has been a more positive experience than other teaching jobs. Working with the kids has taught me more about myself. Coming to work is full of positive vibes, and I believe my coworkers deserve recognition for their help and amazing attitudes!
I am genuinely surprised by this, as I know I still have a lot of room for growth. But I am incredibly fortunate to have the best colleagues constantly supporting me. This award is not just mine; it belongs to every single person here who helped lift me up. Thank you all; I absolutely would not be standing here today without you.
Branch 服務單位 大同分校
First Day 到職日 20201109 Position 職稱 美語教師
Zachary Randal Guillian
I'm honored to be nominated for the Best Employee Award at Hess and grateful my classroom work and Jump Class visuals are recognized. Thank you to Teacher Joanna, Nomfy, Rolance, and Fergus for their support. I look forward to improving teaching videos, supporting student confidence, and contributing to the Hess community.
Working at HESS has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. My students’ honesty, curiosity, and growth remind me to stay patient and grateful. Teaching young learners has helped me become more flexible, creative, and confident. The connections with my students and their families make me feel part of something bigger and remind me, every day, why teaching truly matters.
Branch 服務單位 雨農分校
First Day 到職日 20211123
Position 職稱 NST
Working at Hess has been an honor. From day one, I felt welcomed and valued through genuine kindness and support. My colleagues inspire me with their dedication and teamwork. I’m grateful to the management team for providing a fair, encouraging workplace where teachers can be heard and grow. Hess has helped me become a better teacher and person. Thank you to the entire Hess family.
Paul has shown great commitment and enthusiasm as an educator with HESS, and has maintained a focus on making a happy and safe environment for his students while encouraging them all to achieve a high level of academic excellence.
Hess is not just about teaching but about building relationships and unity. It's a community that turns into family. I love how HESS makes teaching fun & interesting for the students. We help them grow not just academically but as individuals as well. Receiving this award is an honor. It shows the dedication and passion that I bring. This motivates me to keep working hard and growing.
Branch 服務單位 桃園幼校
First Day 到職日 20240301
Position 職稱 NST
Batanai Emmanuel Matanda
Being an English teacher at Hess means helping students grow in confidence, build skills, and explore new cultures through language. It's rewarding to see them move from hesitation to curiosity and excitement. I'm also grateful for my coworkers, whose support and teamwork make each day smoother and more enjoyable.
This is the job i've had the longest since I graduated from university, I really love teaching.
Branch 服務單位
漢東分校
First Day 到職日 20190427
Position 職稱 NST
Peter Chen
陳建志
I appreciate the opportunities that HESS have afforded me. I was originally only coming for 1 year but as each contract got renewed, I kept at it as it because it felt rewarding. Now many years later, I have settled into the role of an NST in Taiwan. I have established myself and my family here and I can truly say that I feel honoured to be recognized for my efforts at work.
Branch 服務單位
文化分校
First Day 到職日 20030823
Position 職稱 NST
Jenelyn Bengco
林珍妮
I really appreciate this recognition of my hard work. I thank all the teachers, the managers and everyone at the branch for always supporting and understanding me.
All of my coworkers have been extremely helpful, and I feel really fortunate to be working with them. I especially want to extend my gratitude to my co-teachers Vivi and Freya, as well as my kindergarten HRT Kenna for their help (and patience) over the past year. My first year at Hess would not have been nearly as seamless without them!
Branch 服務單位 新北大分校
First Day 到職日 20240925
Position 職稱 NST
Kristan Eldrin Rumaro Macounie
This year was my first experience living abroad in Taiwan, away from my family in South Africa. Although I faced fear and homesickness, the experience challenged and shaped me. HESS training and support helped me grow as a teacher and allowed my students to gain confidence. I am grateful for my colleagues and excited to continue learning and growing.
It has been an honor to teach at the MingDe branch this past year. As a first-year HNST and second-year NST, my responsibilities evolved, but teaching remained constant. My goal has been to help MingDe become the leading school in Tucheng. Our success reflects the strong leadership and guidance of Area Director Ruby and Foreign Area Manager Stephen, as well as teamwork across the school.
I am really grateful that I was able to achieve this award , it is only possible because of the amazing team that i am in. Thanks to Ste and the Chinese team this has been a great experience and I am grateful for the recognition.
“It is an honor to be nominated for a HESS teaching award. I am beyond grateful to my fellow NSTs, whom have helped to mentor me and given me the opportunity to learn and improve. I must also extend my gratitude to the local Taiwanese staff at my branch. They have all been incredibly welcoming, supportive, and gracious towards me as I have honed my teaching skills and abilities.”
Branch 服務單位 中山幼校
First Day 到職日 20250430
Position 職稱 NST
Daniel Howard Mannix
My experience teaching at Hess over the past year has been incredibly rewarding. My wish for all my students is to always be opening to learning in and out of the classroom. The world needs more people who are lifelong learners who look at new things with curiosity and excitement. I encourage all my students to have this perspective for English and the rest of the world around them, and in turn, I can learn how I can help my students be their best selves.
Working at DeHe branch has been a formative time thanks to a helpful and supportive team. I'm very thankful for my coworkers and their efficient, but down to earth approach to teaching. To be recognised among them is an honour. As we each continue to take on new staff, classes and challenges, I hope I can be as dedicted as everyone else has shown me they can be.
The large portion of recognition ought to be directed towards my colleagues who do an outstanding job of making it possible for me to implement my teaching! The trick to keeping classes entertaining and entertained in equal measures is reminding ourselves that these are just kids on their early path in education, make it enjoyable for them to make it enjoyable for you!
Branch 服務單位
得和分校
First Day 到職日 20211026
Position 職稱 NST
Employee of the year
優秀員工
Justin Darrin Freeman
I'm extremely grateful for the opporunities HESS has provided me whilst living in Taiwan. Teaching such a diverse range of students and working with colleagues from all walks of life has been an eye-opening experience of a lifetime. I'm proud to receive some recognition of my loyalty and hard work since starting here!
Branch 服務單位 連城分校 First Day 到職日 20230831 Position 職稱 NST
Thank you so much for this award. Receiving this recognition means a lot, not just to me, but to everyone who puts their heart into this job every day. One thing I've learned at HESS is that our work isn't just about teaching it's about taking care of people.I'm proud of the way we look after our students and each other, and I'm grateful I get to be part of a team that truly cares.
I have been teaching for three years and in those three years I have learnt that teaching is more than just teaching the material. It's about connection. What I love most about the job is getting the chance to get to know children from all walks of life. Seeing how little things brings them joy and being reminded to practice patience and emotional regulation. I am so grateful for the award.
Starting a new adventure at Hess has been a welcome challenge! Teaching so many young learners in Little and Middle age groups has its challenges,but it is so rewarding that it more than balances out. I will continue to try to do what is best for my students, and I'm always looking forward to seeing their smiles and hearing their little voices telling me about their toys and family trips.
The students ’ enthusiastic welcome every morning and their determination to learn English make all the hard work worth it. Thank you
Branch 服務單位 基隆飛揚幼校
First Day 到職日 20240925
Position 職稱 NST
Nathaniel Pesklo
When I came to Taiwan I had many questions. Including if I would enjoy teaching. Today I can't think of anything else I'd rather be doing. I'm thankful for the support from my coworkers at my branch and at main office. I'm also thankful for my students efforts and teamwork. Thanks everyone for helping me strive to be the best teacher I can be. Looking forward to all the future has in store.
I admire that HESS focuses on student-centred learning and its dedication to helping students not just learn English but use it confidently in real life. What stands out to me is the schools focus on creating a supportive environment for every learner. In my view this approach does more than teach a language it empowers students to communicate, explore opportunities and connect with the world.
I've gained a lot as a person from teaching. Watching so many students improve and seeing them have fun in class is the whole reason I teach. Now managing other teachers and helping them to realise that joy in the classroom has only deeped the enjoyment for myself.
After nearly three years at HESS, I’ve been grateful for so many meaningful moments with my students. Watching them grow in confidence and enjoy learning has been my greatest joy. I truly appreciate the support of my colleagues and the trust of parents and I look forward to continuing to give my best and make a positive impact.
Receiving this award truly means a lot to me。Teaching has always been more than a job it's a joy and a privilege。Every day I get to witness curiosity spark，confidence grow，and little minds discover what they can do。 I'm grateful for the families，colleagues，and especially the students who make this work so meaningful。 This award reminds me why I love what I do。
Andrew has showed incredible growth as a teacher and has become a great member of the Zhubei Sunlight team.He is always willing to teach new classes, and finds new ways to improve as a teacher and learn from his students. He has helped new teachers find their footings, and is always willing to help out with special events at the branch, as well as take on new challenges.
I have become a more consistent, reliable, and adaptable teacher. I focus on delivering well-balanced lessons while remaining open to improvement to avoid stagnation. My reliability to students, colleagues, and managers is my greatest strength, and I am always willing to help ensure smooth operations. I am grateful to my HNST and managers for their continuous support and guidance.
I have had a wonderfuly experience teaching at Hess. My students have been so smart and creative, and have inspired me to want to be a better teacher. I have also made life-long friends with several of my coworkers, and have enjoyed all of the outings and holidays we have celebrated together.
Thank you for the nomination! I chose Hess because I wanted to continue aching but I knew I needed professional development. In my tin ChangPing, I sometimes can't believe how much support and guidance I've enjoyed from my colleagues. It has more than fulfilled my dreams of development. I hope I can return even a small amount of the satisfaction and gratitude I feel in this role!
Position 職稱 NST
Alec Remus Betancourt
I had never seen myself as a teacher; however, that has completely changed. Not only have I developed a genuine passion for teaching, but I can now see myself doing it for years to come. What convinces me most are the small, unexpected moments that can turn an ordinary day into a great one. These daily interactions truly fulfill me as a teacher, and they make me excited to see what happens next.
I realized that calm communication, positive reinforcement, and fairness create a more productive classroom than strict rules alone. Seeing students gain confidence in English has been one of the most rewarding parts of the job. Overall, the year has been both challenging and fulfilling, and it has strengthened my commitment to becoming a more effective and supportive teacher.
Howdy, first I'd like to thank all my cts, fellow nsts, managers, and the staff in DaJia and Shalu for making everyday a real blast. I'd also like to thank shaved ice and papaya milk for being a great motivation while lesson planning.
Branch 服務單位
大甲分校
First Day 到職日 20250430
Position 職稱 NST
Zariah Bridget Beukes
Moving abroad for the first time has come with its trials and detours, but every moment has reaffirmed why I'm here: the children of HESS. Their energy, their growth and just how fast they learn! I'm truly honored and grateful for this nomination and for the joy my students bring each day. Thank you to my colleagues, managers, and Hess!
Teaching has been a meaningful and rewarding experience. While I taught my students, they also taught me valuable lessons. This past year has deepened my gratitude for growth and learning, and it has strengthened my excitement for what lies ahead
Branch 服務單位 鹿港分校
First Day 到職日 20240801
Gabriel Way
Position 職稱 NST
I chose to work with HESS for its training program and the meaningful experience it offers new teachers. HESS has provided me with everything I was seeking by allowing me to work with students of all ages and levels, including Kindy, Pre-ESL, Happy Kids, ESL, HLS, and IA. I am grateful to HESS for allowing me to work in such a fulfilling environment and to look forward to going to work each day.
I was surprised to hear that I would receive this award. I'm honored and this wouldn't be possible without the support and guidance of all the staff at Meicun. With challenges and successes, I continue to grow as a teacher and individual. I try to have a positive impact on the students' lives and it keeps motivating me to contribute the best I can.
Supporting students as they build their English skills continually motivates me to do my best. Receiving this award is truly an honor. Teaching at HESS has been an incredibly rewarding experience on its own, but this recognition reminds me that what I'm doing makes a difference. It encourages me to keep growing, keep working hard, and keep moving in the right direction.
My biggest takeaway from the past year has been learning to stay open to new ideas. When I continue learning alongside my students, teaching becomes more meaningful and enjoyable. This experience has been rewarding because of my fellow teachers and students. I hope to always keep a positive attitude, build inspiring relationships, and help every student grow with confidence.
I'm truly honored to receive this recognition! Teaching at HESS has pushed me to grow, be creative, and always give my best to every student. I'm very grateful for the support of my coworkers, my students'families, and my amazing kids. This award motivates me to continue improving and bringing energy and heart into the classroom every day!
Branch 服務單位 九如分校
First Day 到職日 20241128
Position 職稱 NST
Talita Keller
It is a privilege working at HESS. I have learned a lot and Taitung is an excellent and caring campus.
This year has been a mix of challenges, progress, and success. I am proud of the work of the team in the South, all of whom have made amazing contributions to student development. I am thankful for the support I receive every day from those around me, and I hope to continue being supportive of others in their own development into amazing teachers and members of the Taiwan community.
I've truly loved my time teaching in Taiwan with HESS. The positivity and support from my colleagues and students make even the busiest days rewarding. I'm grateful to be part of a team that always comes together to help one another. As the saying goes, when you love what you do, it never feels like work.
I enjoy working at HESS because the kids make every day worthwhile. They’re energetic and fun, and it’s rewarding to see them grow. I also appreciate the branch staff they ’ re supportive, easy to work with, and create a family-like environment that makes the job meaningful and something I look forward to each day.
2025 Excellent Team Achievement Award is a highest honor. This award is to honor the branches, bookstores and shops which showed growth and remarkable success in 2025.
