Non-academic achievements in areas such as the arts, music, sports, creative writing and community service are also taken into account under the Joint University Programmes Admission System, with principals encouraged to recommend students who have excelled in these areas irrespective of their performance in academic subjects.

In these ways, and with the help of today's school leaders, we are confident we can choose young people who may eventually become principals themselves. Then, once enrolled at the Institute, we can ensure they attain the key attributes of a professional teacher. We achieve this in a variety of ways.

Developing the whole person
Our fully integrated programme of academic studies is complemented by a rich variety of on-formal curriculum activities, many of which come under the umbrella of the Student Affairs Office (SAO). The Quality Teacher Development Award scheme (QDTA), for instance, helps students plan and monitor their own all-round development and prepares them for lifelong learning. Award winners, in bronze, silver, gold and platinum categories, have achieved a balance in their personal growth, academic and professional development, community contributions and cultural and recreational achievements.

One award winner summed up QTDA's relevance to student life: "It helps me to set targets and work hard to achieve them. This has become part of me now." Another said: "The service helped me to integrate what I have learned and to apply it in school situations."

Hostel life as an education in itself
Hostel life also gives students an opportunity to develop life skills through self-management and learning the art of negotiation and the value of independence. In particular, in 2001-02 students formed hostel associations and organised high table dinners, orientation camps, competitions and sharing sessions. Hostels also reached outside the Institute to co-ordinate with local educators. In one instance, they organised a project with the Tai Po primary and secondary school heads and Tung Wah Group of Hospitals schools to give our students learning opportunities in teaching, organising student activities and taking part in school administration. Students also set up a mini-library on hot educational issues and operated a welfare corner.