Good morning teachers and students,
This morning when I woke up, I counted the number of times I have presided assemblies at WFN as the Principal – more than 100 times. For all these years, I’ve never worried about what to say during a speech. Every time as I walked up to this stage, ideas came naturally to me. But today, things are a little different. This is my eleventh time holding a Closing Ceremony, and it is also my last. And by far, this is the most difficult speech to make. Knowing that this would be my last filled my heart with so much emotion that I am almost at a loss for words. As I walked past the hallway this morning, bits and pieces of memories of the past years flooded my mind, and I thought to myself: How lucky am I to find saying goodbye so hard ?
Looking back at the past eleven years, I wish to tell you from the bottom of my heart that I am truly and deeply grateful to have been your Principal. Thank you, students, for working so diligently and going to great lengths to achieve excellence throughout the years. This year, I am particularly overjoyed at the breakthroughs you all have made in different aspects. Your creative STEM inventions, multi-media performance during the event 中 華 經 典 頌 讀 香 港 展 演 會 , and outstanding results in geography, visual arts, liberal studies, music, and sports competitions continue to leave me in awe. I really appreciate all your hard work, and I take great pride in all of you for your achievements. It has been my utmost pleasure to witness your growth and improvement both academically and personally.
Of course, this would not have been made possible without our teachers. I am constantly impressed by the amount of time and energy that our teachers have devoted to ensuring our students receive the best education and care. In recent years, our teachers have even pushed themselves to learn innovative teaching methods to improve teaching quality. I always say that our teachers’ commitment to the school and professionalism are unquestionable – from the curriculum they plan, the learning environment they foster, and the relationships they build with students and parents, we can all see teachers pouring their hearts and souls to WFN and students. Thank you for supporting students from all levels, educating and caring about them, and thank you for doing so with excellence.
That said, I wish that all of you will continue to pursue for excellence. For the past few years, I have constantly encouraged you to step out of your comfort zone, be determined and do not fear challenges, and strive to succeed. Today, I still stand by what I said. Be brave and positive. Have big dreams and ambitions. A Principal in the UK has once said, “School should have prepared you to be resilient and equipped you with the grit and determination to succeed and overcome the inevitable knock-backs along the way.” I sincerely hope that you will face the future with a positive mindset, and remember that the WFN family is always here for you. Do not be afraid to try, and do not be afraid to fail. Learn from your mistakes and persevere. It is okay to try again and fail again – but fail better and learn better. I truly wish that all of you would work hard to achieve your dreams. I have confidence that you will one day spread your wings and fly high in the direction of your dreams.
Many youngsters I have met during these years have great dreams and ambitions. They are passionate, hard-working, and are always ready to take on challenges, and for that, I appreciate them. From meeting all these youngsters, one quality in them I think is essential is a good sense of judgement. It is of paramount importance that you discriminate between right and wrong. Throughout your life, be it in school or in society, you will be required to make many decisions. Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made, and I believe that everyone has a moral compass in their hearts. Therefore, make the decision that your heart guides you to, and make the right choices that will put your heart at ease, and that you will not regret. In addition, remember to use the right way to express ideas and opinions. In almost all issues, there will be different or even conflicting opinions. No matter what your stance is, do not forget to treat everyone else with respect, and try your best to make your voice heard in an appropriate, harmonious and respectful manner.
With that, I would like to end today’s assembly. Teachers and students, I thank you for my eleven years with you. It has been my greatest honor to serve you as WFN’s Principal. I feel immensely privileged to stand here today, and witness the growth of our teachers, students, and the transformation of our school. Now as our paths diverge, it is my sincere hope that you all will continue to strive and achieve great things in life. No matter where I am, I still stand with you and the WFN family. I am and will always be thankful for what the school and all of you have given me. Thank you.
Finally, I would like to give my most sincere words of thanks to our teachers who are saying farewell to us. They have made valuable contributions to our school throughout the years they have spent with us. Let’s give them great applause to show our gratitude.
I wish all of you a happy and fruitful summer! Thank you.
12th July, 2019