When FIS Becomes a Heritage: The Montfort Family’s Three-Generation Story
At FIS, we often speak of our community's unique, family-like spirit. But for the Montfort family, this is more than a feeling—it is a lived reality, a heritage spanning three generations. It is a story of how a school has evolved from a place of learning into a true family legacy.
That legacy recently culminated in a profoundly emotional moment: three generations of Montforts reunited on the very Blue Pool Road campus that holds so much of their history. For Olivier Montfort, the grandfather, the return was particularly poignant. As a past Board member who had been instrumental in the campus's construction, he never imagined, when his family left in 2000, that his own grandchildren would one day study within these walls. For his son, Louis—an alumnus, a current parent, and now a Board Member—standing beside his father and his children was a living bridge, connecting the past, present, and future of his family in a single, powerful frame.
In this interview, we sit down with Louis Montfort to explore this unparalleled connection and the profound sense of continuity that defines what it means when FIS isn't just a school, but a foundation for family history. We first invite him to look back on his own memories as a student, walking these same halls decades ago.
Take us back to your own time as a student at FIS. What is a defining memory that has stayed with you all these years? Was there a particular teacher that had a significant impact on you?
"I was a student at FIS between 1996 and 2000, and three strong memories stand out:
- The opening of the Blue Pool Road Campus: I was in 4ème (Year 9) when the campus opened. Moving from Jardine's Lookout to a dedicated secondary building was a big change. It was exciting to explore the new facilities and experience a campus designed for older students
- The climbing club: One unforgettable activity was abseiling down the E Building at Jardine's (not sure it was ever repeated again)—from the top playground all the way to the base of the pillars. It was challenging but a great souvenir
- An inspiring teacher: Our History & Geography teacher (Mr. Philippe Gimenez) had a passion for his subject which sparked my own interest, which continued well after school."
As a student, what was your perception of the School Board? Were you aware of your father's involvement, and what did that mean to you then?
"At the time, I had very little understanding of the School Board or its role. I knew my father was involved, but I don’t recall ever bringing him concerns or suggestions."
"It’s quite different from my own children today—they expect me to lobby for more French fries in the canteen and less sun in the playground!"
The conversation then turns to the present, where Louis's role has evolved into that of a parent. He shares the unique experience of seeing FIS through his children's eyes—a perspective that blends his own nostalgic memories with the fresh excitement of their discoveries.
How does it feel to see your own children navigating the same hallways? Is there a specific "full circle" moment that stands out?
"When we moved in Hong Kong and school started, I was very proud to bring my two eldest back into Jardines. It brought back many memories and it was fun seeing the campus through their eyes—debating the best playground, finding shortcuts in the corridors and stairs, and, of course, debating which canteen was the best.
I was also very happy to discover the Chai Wan campus for my youngest one. It is a great space dedicated to younger students and a very good environment for their early years.
Later, when my eldest moved to Blue Pool Road, I was impressed by the changes—especially the library, which is now far larger and more modern than in my time."
How is your child's experience similar to your own? In what ways is it excitingly different, reflecting the school's evolution?
"I would say, same place but different souvenirs and technology. We used to watch movies on worn-out VHS tapes and wheel a TV from room to room but today, every classroom has large screens and digital tools. And when my kids ask why there aren’t more fries in the canteen, I remind them that in my days, we had couscous every Fridays, not fries!"
According to you, what makes FIS unique globally?
"FIS is unique because it offers both French and International streams both with top of mind teaching, which is creating opportunities to discover other cultures, make new friends and enjoy different experiences. And I believe there is still much potential to continue to develop the “OneFIS” spirit—a distinctive and very unique aspect of our school."
Ultimately, this deep, multi-generational bond culminates in a powerful sense of duty. Louis discusses his decision to join the FIS Board, not merely as a role, but as the natural continuation of a family commitment to the school's future. In this final segment, we explore what it means to steward an institution that is your own family's heritage—and we even pose a few of our questions to his father, Olivier, to gain his unique perspective on building a legacy that spans from the Blue Pool Road campus's foundation to the leaders of tomorrow.
What motivated you to step into the role of a Board member yourself?
"I believe that being part of a community means giving back when you can. In FIS, many of its members are engaged in so many activities and roles. It can be as délégués (students or parents), parents reps, staff reps, FISCA, gala organizers, members of committees and members of the Board.
Each contribution is key as it helps to make FIS stronger and it help its students reaching their full potential."
From your unique vantage point—student, parent, Board member—what is the single most important responsibility the Board has towards the school community?
"It is a very good question to have in mind when becoming a board member. For me, the most critical responsibility is to look ahead. We must ensure that in 3, 5, or 10 years, FIS remains relevant and continues to provide an exceptional education for students who are here now—and those just starting their journey."
How does your journey make the Board's decisions more grounded and credible?
"Every Board member brings unique experiences and expertise which allows us to take meaningful decisions together. Personally, in addition to prior Board experience at a smaller school in London, I try to also bring this perspective of someone who has walked these corridors as a student before being there as a parent. That connection helps me understand different facets of our school’s culture. "
Why would you encourage your own child to one day serve on the School Board or a committee, just as you and your father have?
"I always tell my children: if you care about something, invest your time in it. I hope they will find projects and communities they feel passionate about—whether through a School Board, a charity, a parish, or another form of engagement. And I hope many members of our FIS community will also choose to get involved and help together shape our school’s future."
Questions to Olivier Montfort, FIS Board Member in 1999.
What was your proudest achievement or contribution during your time governing the school?
"I joined the FIS board upon the achievement of Blue Pool Road. This additional building was realised by Dragages HK, the company for which I was CFO. We were all very proud of the building elevated just on the middle of a valley with challenging conditions of construction. I am sure that the students today do not spend their time in looking at the stunning view over Hong Kong, but I remember that i was fascinated by it when visiting the project. The opening ceremony held with the late French minister of Education, Mr Claude Allegre was very nice and motivating."
How did your Board role shape your perspective on your son's education as it was happening?
"It was very important for me to play an active role in that school, not only for my children but also for all the families of my company (and we were quite a few at that time). I remember how much I enjoyed sharing views with the teaching community which was very committed to excellence and happiness of the students."
What does it mean to you to see your son not only choose FIS for your grandchildren but also follow in your footsteps on the Board?
A lot of pride of course. Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!
Did you ever imagine your family's connection with FIS would extend this far?
"Not at all. When I left Hong Kong in 2000, I thought I would never come back. But fortunately, my wife and I have kept a strong friendly link with Hong Kong. Two among our children have spent part of their career in Hong Kong and we had a lot of nice opportunities to come back, each time with pleasure."
Seeing the school now as a grandparent and former leader, what is your greatest hope for its future?
"My hope is not focused on extension but mainly on keeping excellence and well being of the students. And I am confident in such future !"
