[Sponsored article] During a rewarding career spanning more than three decades as Office Manager/Admissions at Beacon Hill School (BHS), Barbara Woo has collected a treasure-trove of fond memories ranging from Lion Dancing at Chinese New Year celebrations to events commemorating anniversaries and important milestones. But most rewarding of all, she says, is watching students grow up throughout the course of their ESF education and step out into the world as capable, confident young adults, prepared to embrace life and all of its challenges. "When I joined ESF I was looking for an opportunity that would challenge and inspire me, and my experience delivered fully on both counts and has given me far more," says Barbara , who firmly believes that ESF sets an exemplary standard in Hong Kong when it comes to providing a world-class education. Describing how her work environment has allowed her to develop and attain various career goals, Barbara says she considers herself lucky to have had so many opportunities, with each career move guided and supported by ESF professionals. "Throughout my career I have had the privilege to work with very supportive colleagues, including principals, teachers, support staff and caretaking staff," Barbara says. For instance, when she transferred from the Peak School to BHS in August 1983, while the move created some new challenges, the responsibility of helping to run the entire school office enabled her to become closely involved with new children joining the school and their parents. "With new responsibilities, over the years my skill base has grown and developed and so has my confidence," says Barbara , adding that her work with the admissions department has enabled her to interact with parents from all walks of life. She believes strong partnerships shared with parents from different cultures have resulted in a wealth of new learning experiences. In addition to her wide ranging responsibilities, these days, Barbara says it is a pleasure showing former students around BHS, which has recently undergone some major renovations. Often, she says, visiting BHS alumni are young adults in the early stages of their careers. "It is a credit to BHS and ESF that these young people are able to excel in their chosen professions," she notes. BHS looks very different now compared to 1989, which Barbara fondly remembers as the school's 21st anniversary celebrations. However, one thing remains constant, the positive community spirit central to the life of the school and the commitment to help every child be the best they can be. She says BHS is able to achieve this thanks to teachers who are committed to making a real difference in the classroom and an IB curriculum that helps ESF students become empowered global citizens. . Among the talented ESF teaching and leadership staff, Barbara says there is a dedicated drive to continually improve outcomes and adapt to the changing world of education. "Success is due to the talented people who share a passion for education and commitment to being the best," she says. Barbara welcomes the ESF's 50th anniversary as a milestone in providing first class education to thousands of students; past and present. On a more personal note, she says working with young students of different nationalities and the dynamic BHS community keeps her young at heart.