Special School Pupils Shine On Stage

Everyone has the potential to shine. The talent and potential of students in special schools is no exception. They may have to work hard to achieve their goals, but their perseverance shines through on stage.

Persevere through adversity:

The Hong Kong Red Cross John F. Kennedy Centre organises dancing classes for students. The school even hires an instructor so students can learn from a professional once a week. Hon Sze-shu, Lau Sheung-wan, Lau Ching-tung and Shum Kin-fung spend a lot of time on their choreography, hoping their moves can be more synchronised. It is not easy, as they have to control the movement of their wheelchairs at the same time.

Lau Sheung-wan said: “The time we spent on learning this dance is different for all of us. So, we have to practise more to make sure we are on the same beat.”

Substantial breakthrough

The school’s Vice Principal Yau Suk-chong said the students have different strengths and weaknesses, sometimes just spinning may take them days to practise. However, she is glad to see the four of them helping each other out.

“They have overcome self-doubt and are able to support each other throughout practices. This is the most precious learning experience.”

Lingering notes

Music has no boundaries and this passion for music brought students from five schools for children with intellectual disabilities together. Lam Tsz-hin from Hong Chi Winifred Mary Cheung Morninghope School is passionate about learning to play musical instruments.

“I particularly love the harp as it has a beautiful sound. I enjoy playing the harp.”

Ye Sum-kong from Mary Rose School, who played the timpani for the ensemble, said he was grateful to see all the new faces while his mother was happy to see the changes playing timpani has brought him.

“He is more outgoing and confident since he learnt to play the timpani. Now he will not get nervous easily on stage.”

The boys performed the famous song “Below the Lion Rock” for “SHINE 2022”. This is their first performance together. Their vibraphonist, Raymond Mok from Saviour Lutheran School, felt nervous performing with a bunch of new faces.

“This is not my solo performance. We have to learn to co-ordinate with others. Sometimes it is hard to get everyone in rhythm.”

Let them shine

The Education Bureau continuously reviews the development of special education, and supports schools to help students overcome limitations and difficulties so that they can develop their potential.

The bureau, together with the Hong Kong Special Schools Council and the Education University of Hong Kong, organised “SHINE 2022” to highlight the learning activities and creative works of special school students. The bureau hopes the public will have a better understanding of special education in Hong Kong and actively support students in special schools.

A variety show was held as the finale of “SHINE 2022”. About 100 students joined the show, which covered a range of performances.

Education Bureau Inspector (Special Education Support) Anna Mo hoped students would learn to collaborate with different people and develop a can-do attitude through repeated practice and rehearsals.