Shu Wei admitted that the awards came as a great surprise to her. As a novice in the profession, she did not have high hopes of winning. In particular, when participating in the 5th National Reading, Teaching and Learning Competition for young teachers in Chongqing, she had to demonstrate her teaching skills in front of an audience of 5,000! That was a great challenge. Shu Wei attributed her success to Ms Lam and was most grateful to Ms Lam and other colleagues for their support and guidance. She revealed that the mentor system arranged by her school was particularly useful. "Before the competition, Ms Lam and my mentor offered me a lot of advice and guidance on my demonstration lesson. Of course, I feel overwhelmed with the prize, but more importantly, I have found a profession I truly love which offers me a satisfaction with which nothing can compare!"

According to Ms Lam, Shu Wei's awards brought about increased exchange with mainland teachers. The mainland teachers were particularly appreciative of our interactive integrated approach in writing and reading, which they commended as a more lively way to motivate learning.

For those who have yet to decide their career path, Ms Lam has the following advice. "If you love dealing with young people, teaching is a career which can offer you great satisfaction - by watching the growth of your students, and the smiles on their faces as they learn more. This is why I still enjoy each and every day of my life in the school."

Shu Wei (right) is most grateful to Ms Leona Lam, Principal of Tai Po Old Market Public School (Plover Cove) for her success in the 7th Hong Kong Outstanding Teachers Selection.