Ching Wing Yin (’24)

As Ying Wa Girls’ School proudly celebrates its 125th anniversary, it is also time to bid farewell to two of our English teachers, Miss Cheung Ka Yee and Miss Chan Siu Man, who have just retired after not less than 30 years of devoted service.  Their dedication and hard work have shaped generations of Ying Wa Girls, leaving a lasting impact on our school’s legacy.

Miss Cheung (left) and Miss Chan (right) in Ying Wa

Miss Cheung Ka Yee

The Joy in Teaching

Miss Cheung joined Ying Wa in 1992.  Having spent over 30 years in Ying Wa, Miss Cheung has built meaningful connections with her students that often last well beyond their school years.  She mentioned some of her fond moments, such as how an alumna kindly offered help after her injury.  Even though teaching can be monotonous at times, she finds it profoundly rewarding to witness the growth of students, such as how they take the initiative to improve, practise and try their best—that determination is what makes teaching so rewarding.

Speaking English with Confidence

Despite having a packed teaching schedule, Miss Cheung loves how incorporating drama in teaching challenges students in many ways beyond just English fluency.  It allows her students to shine with confidence and express themselves, even if they struggle with articulation.  She enjoys adapting her teaching every year to fit each new group of students, helping them develop good learning habits and resilience.

She encourages students to be brave in speaking up, stay curious by staying informed about environmental issues, and most importantly, not to forget to listen and reflect.  Looking back at her career, Miss Cheung shares that she became a teacher by chance—but nonetheless, it was one which has allowed her to encounter and learn from diverse groups, making each day rewarding despite its challenges.

Words of Encouragement

To her students, Miss Cheung would like to say:

"Cherish every opportunity, count your blessings, and always admit and learn from your mistakes.  I’m beyond grateful to have worked alongside you all towards a meaningful goal every day!"

Two dedicated teachers!

Miss Chan Siu Man

Witnessing Students’ Growth

Miss Chan started teaching in Ying Wa in 1995.  Her career over three decades has been fuelled by her passion to see students grow, not just academically, but also their personal growth.  She treasures the lifelong bonds forged with our alumnae, and our school's 125th anniversary celebration has been a precious opportunity for her to catch up with her former students.  “Watching the girl who once listened attentively in class now take her first steps into motherhood was especially touching,” she gladly shared.

Her Teaching Approach

Her teaching approach with junior students involved creative and real-life scenarios, such as designing restaurant menus and role-playing activities, added a spark to English lessons while keeping it practical and engaging.  She especially enjoyed Language Arts lessons where students were able to resonate with books and draw from their personal experiences, taking a break from repetitive grammar drills.  Despite challenges in managing diverse English proficiency levels, she remained committed to encouraging students in her classroom and spark curiosity in learning English.

Noticing the unleashed potential in every student, including quieter or less obvious achievers, Miss Chan credits her students for shaping her more outgoing and positive outlook on life.  Even through personal health challenges, the care and support she received from students lifted her spirits and motivated her on the path to recovery. 

Heartfelt Words

In recent years, she faced personal health challenges, but the care and support she received from students lifted her spirit during recovery.  To her students, Miss Chan would like to say:

"Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. Passing down knowledge is only the surface of a teaching career.  The truth is, I have learned and grown from each of you.  Treasure your opportunities and resources in Ying Wa, and continue to be curious about everything around you!"

We extend our deepest gratitude to Miss Cheung and Miss Chan for being firm pillars of YWGS, nurturing generations of young, talented women to flourish in life beyond our classrooms.