The new academic year has officially set sail. The much-anticipated Opening Ceremony was held with great success, marking a bright beginning to YLLSS’s new school year. In his opening address, Principal Mr WAN introduced this year’s core theme for personal growth — H.E.A.R.T.
In recent years, the school has used a series of mascots to help students build strong learning habits — from the Pomodoro Technique and a growth mindset to SMART goal-setting. Each stage has marked real progress and change. This year, a new heart-shaped mascot arrives on campus, standing for five qualities that machines cannot replace. In an age of rapid AI development, these human strengths will matter more than ever.
Technology can bring speed; only the human heart can set the direction. Mr WAN called on every student to cultivate the five H.E.A.R.T. qualities:
H (Harmony) — Listen well, include others, and work as a team so that we can go further together.
E (Emotion) — Meet difficulty with a growth mindset, learn from setbacks, and keep your passion.
A (Adaptability) — Welcome change, stay eager to learn, and face the unknown with flexibility.
R (Responsibility) — Step forward, solve problems, and give back with kindness.
T (Trouble-shooting) — Stay curious, think critically, find the problem, and break through it.
There is no need to fear the age of artificial intelligence. The future belongs to those who carry gentleness, courage, thoughtfulness, and a sense of duty. May students take HEART as their lamp and walk toward a path that is truly their own.
The ceremony also featured two outstanding recent graduates, who shared their precious years of growth and dream-chasing at YLLSS.
HUANG Yuheng Edgar, who studies a mathematics and science programme at Tsinghua University, recalled that his Form 1 results were far from outstanding. As a cross-boundary student, he also had to adjust to online lessons. With teachers’ care he gained confidence and found his strength in mathematics and science. Supported by Mr WAN’s recommendation and inspired by Mr Oscar HO of the University Dream Flyers Programme, he saw the research resources and opportunities on the mainland and set his sights firmly on further study. In the years that followed he widened his horizons through exchange tours to Iceland, Finland, Australia and beyond, encountered the beauty of science first-hand, and built a rich record through academic posts and mathematics and science competitions. He urged juniors to seize every chance to grow, try boldly, and refuse to limit themselves — preparation creates what the future can become.
WONG Hoi-ching, who will read Journalism and Communication at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, thanked Mr WAN for clear guidance in the University Dream Flyers Programme as she planned her path ahead. Through the Principal’s Recommendation Scheme, she secured a conditional university offer before the DSE results were released. At school she served as Head Academic Prefect and Vice House Captain, developing communication, critical thinking and leadership. She also received honours including First Runner-up of Yuen Long Outstanding Student and New Territories Outstanding Student. She believed no experience in growing up is wasted, and encouraged juniors to meet challenges openly: every attempt brings either success or growth, and persistence leads to the future they hope for.
On the same day we welcomed a new AFS exchange student, Simon from Belgium. Simon introduced himself at the ceremony and officially joined the YLLSS family. In the year ahead, we look forward to a rich exchange of cultures that will deepen learning and widen the horizons of students and teachers alike.
New year, new goals, new journey. May every Lutheranian walk forward with HEART — with warmth, courage, thought, and responsibility — and shine in their own way.
