The principal of Law Ting Pong Secondary School is an academic who returned to school, where she is implementing many of her ideals as a teacher educator.
Before joining the Tai Po school three years ago, Teresa Siu Lai-ping was an associate professor in Chinese University of Hong Kong's Department of Curriculum and Instruction for 18 years, where she had taught student teachers economics, social studies and integrated humanities.
She jumped at the chance to become principal after being frustrated that few of her students were able to practise what she preached.
'It was my dream to become a principal because at university I was interested in all kinds of teaching strategies and student-centred learning,' she said. 'But a lot of my students who received distinctions in their teaching practice said their principals did not give them the opportunity to realise that style of teaching.'
Ms Siu has no regrets despite the work load of implementing radical changes and continuing to teach. 'I love teaching. I love bringing new ideas to students and I like being with them,' she said.
She also is a mentor to the students in Form One A - all her teachers act as either class teachers or mentors. 'As a mentor I am a good friend. Students can talk to me and I can help them: I help set their goals - their life goals and goals for this year.'