Meet the Team

RICK VALENTINE

Our founder, Rick Valentine, has a deep connection to Asia, a bond forged during his formative years when his parents moved to Hong Kong when he was twelve. Educated at a prestigious boarding school in England, Rick spent his holidays in Hong Kong and returned after university to pursue his passion for golf. Rick’s golfing career is illustrious. He represented Hong Kong in prestigious international events such as the Eisenhower Trophy (World Amateur Team Championships), the Nomura Cup (Asia Pacific Team Championships), and the Putra Cup (South East Asia Team Championships). Among his many achievements, he won the China Amateur in 2000 and was the leading amateur in the Hong Kong Open in both 2001 and 2002. Rick's deep-rooted love for the sport was undoubtedly influenced by his father, Iain Valentine, who worked in Asia for over 30 years, including 10 years as Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Golf Association. Rick’s passion for golf and education naturally led to his career at Loretto School in Scotland, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the Loretto Golf Academy. Under Rick’s leadership, the academy flourished into one of the most renowned school-based golf programs in Europe, attracting talented young golfers from across the globe. Rick’s guidance not only helped develop countless student-athletes but also elevated the academy's reputation as a center of excellence in golf education. In addition to his role as the Director of Golf, Rick served as a housemaster at Loretto, where he mentored and supported students in both their academic and personal lives. His experience in these roles has given him a deep understanding of the needs of young people in boarding schools, further strengthening his commitment to creating opportunities for students to thrive both on and off the course. Rick’s combined expertise in golf, education, and guardianship forms the foundation of RV Sport & Education, ensuring the highest level of care, guidance, and opportunity for the students we support.

MAX OUTRAM

Max brings extensive expertise in pastoral care, boarding house management, athletic development, and international student support, making him a key figure in providing exceptional guardianship and guidance to young people navigating their educational journey.

With over a decade of experience at a leading UK boarding school, Max has held roles as Housemaster, Head of Year, and Head of Strength and Conditioning. These positions have deepened his understanding of student well-being, academic progress, and personal development. His experience working with 19 age-grade international athletes across nine sports—including downhill skiing, badminton, rugby, hockey, tennis, and athletics—has given him a strong appreciation of the challenges young people face in balancing academics and extracurricular commitments.

Beyond his work in the UK, Max brings valuable international leadership experience. As Head Coach of the Chinese National Under-18 Rugby Team in 2018 and 2019, he organised and led training camps across multiple cities and guided his team through prestigious international competitions, including the Junior Olympic Games. His time working with students from diverse backgrounds has equipped him with the ability to connect with and support young people, helping them achieve their full potential.

Max’s expertise, alongside our team’s commitment to pastoral care and mentorship, ensures that students receive the highest level of support in both their academic and personal growth. Parents can feel confident knowing their children are cared for, guided, and empowered to succeed both in school and beyond.

Andy brings over 25 years of experience in education, holding BSA and HMC qualifications in safeguarding, boarding house management, and pastoral care.

For 15 years, he worked in the independent sector as a Housemaster, Head of Physical Education, Tutor, Student Mentor, and Sports Coach. His extensive experience in supporting international students spans academics, co-curricular activities, and personal development, helping them navigate the challenges of studying abroad.

As a Tutor, Andy has guided students through applications to some of the most prestigious universities in the UK, Europe, and the US. He has also taught, coached, and mentored elite athletes across a wide range of sports, from Rugby to Sailing..