During the summer, our S6 graduates received JUPAS offers for admission to various tertiary institutions, including their dream programs such as Medicine, Chinese Medicine, Nursing, Radiotherapy, Speech Therapy, Design, Law, and Accountancy. With the values, attitudes, and skills nurtured at OLR, they are now ready to embark on exciting new journeys. Just like you, they explored their interests through a variety of learning experiences at OLR. Their path wasn’t always smooth, but with the belief that every individual holds unique potential waiting to be discovered, they steadily moved closer to achieving their dreams. These achievements reflect both the hard work of our students and the dedicated guidance provided by our teachers. So, don’t underestimate the value of your daily classroom learning and extracurricular activities as they help you to discover your hidden talents.  

When students feel distant from their goals or can’t envision the joy of reaching them, they may lose motivation. To support you, I spent the summer exploring three books—one on building effective habits, one on improving sleep quality, and one on overcoming procrastination. These books are grounded in the theories of neuroscience and psychology. Each author is passionate about helping readers enhance their well-being and happiness by offering easy-to-apply methods. 

Something that really caught my attention is that all these books share one powerful idea. They all emphasize breaking down big goals into smaller, manageable steps. To build habits that support these smaller goals, start with something quick and easy—just one or two minutes is enough to spark your drive. From the start, don’t worry about making the plan perfect. Instead, begin with a simple outline and take that first step. This way, you won’t delay action or think it’s too difficult. Instead, by adjusting your approach as you go, you’ll stay flexible, keep moving forward, and build confidence along the way. 

Getting good sleep also helps you reach your goals. When you sleep well, your brain gets a chance to reset and your body recovers from the day. It even helps you stay focused and keeps your memory sharp—making schoolwork easier. 

Luckily, sleep quality can be greatly improved through healthy daytime activities. Walking, noticing flowers and trees, and getting sunlight exposure can all make a big difference in how well you sleep at night. This aligns beautifully with the school’s environment. As you walk from the MTR station back to campus, you can see the peaceful greenery and breathe in the fresh scent of grass. This helps renew your inner energies. Physical activity matters too. Exercising at the school’s open playground, like playing badminton, helps you relax more deeply in the evening. These three books also highlight plenty of practical and inspiring methods worth trying. I will find time to share more with you soon. 

Over the summer, I encouraged you to read books and try something new. Now, it’s time to hear what you’ve been up to! The first 10 students who share what they learned from reading or summer activities will get a banana boat ice cream as a thank-you treat. And everyone who participates will get a small gift too! Please don’t hesitate to drop a few lines of your experiences into the letter box outside my room tomorrow. I can’t wait to read your stories! 

As we begin a new chapter, let’s recall the meaning of school. It is a nurturing environment where you can feel safe and supported to grow. To help you develop the values needed to overcome life’s challenges, your teachers will guide you in self-understanding and self-reflection. It’s important to keep an open mind so you can turn feedback into a driving force for growth. Try to understand the values behind each piece of advice and believe in your ability to shape your future. Be ready to develop a mature and positive mindset. 

Regarding our school theme: 

‘Ownership Leverages Responsibilities. Optimism Creates Possibilities.’ 

To help you achieve these goals, our teachers will adopt strategies that align with the school's major concerns.  

1. To nurture students to become mature and positive self-directed learners  

1. To promote a positive life through the implementation of Values Education – the virtue of Gratitude 

As we begin this new academic year, let’s all work together to move forward with faith. May God’s blessings be with each of you! Thank you!