Speech by Mrs Fanny LAW, GBS, JP

Permanent Secretary for Education and Manpower
at the 115^th Anniversary Concert of
Belilios Public School at
Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall on

                          Friday, 9 December 2005                          

Ms Ip, Mrs Wong, Honourable Guests, Parents, Teachers, Past and Present Students,

                   Thank you for inviting me to join you at this concert to celebrate the 115 anniversary of BPS and to enjoy the mesmerising performance of BPS girls.

                   As a member of the family of government schools, BPS stands out as a leader and a role model of which the Administration is justifiably proud.  With ‘Balanced development, Public spirit and Scholastic excellence’ as its educational goals, BPS offers a well-balanced and diversified curriculum that caters for all-round development.  BPS girls are creative and independent learners, excel in public examinations, and actively participate in physical and aesthetic activities. 

                   In particular, BPS is ardent in promoting music education, and we are pleased to have this opportunity to enjoy the melodious performance of BPS girls and the Belilios Old Girls Association.  The value of music education at BPS goes beyond performance and awards.  It impacts on the personal growth and development of BPS girls.

                   Music provides a channel for expression of emotions and cultural values, and the creation of music offers unlimited opportunity to exercise imagination and creativity.  The process of music creation and performance helps to develop perseverance, self-discipline, team work and commitment.  These are essential attributes for success at work in the 21^st century.  Appreciation of music enhances the quality of life and has a positive impact on inculcating moral values.  Hence, music education has a central place in the school curriculum and was recognized in ancient China as one of the “six arts” that every educated person should master. 

                   The 115th Anniversary Concert tonight marks the end of a year of celebrations.  It also signifies the beginning of a new era as the school prepares for the transition to a new three-year senior secondary academic structure beginning in 2009.   With the strong foundation that has been laid over more than a century, I am confident that BPS will scale new heights and continue to lead in nurturing students with good communication skills, broadened knowledge base, independent and critical thinking, collaborative and problem-solving skills, and lifelong learning aptitude. 

               BPS’s achievements do not come easily.  They represent the concerted efforts of school leaders, teachers, students and parents who worked arduously together to bring BPS to what it is today.  The drive for excellence and team spirit permeate the school culture and impact on all students and teachers.  I offer my sincere gratitude to the school managers, principal and teachers for their leadership and hard work, and offer my best wishes for continued success in the years to come as BPS moves from “good to great”. 

                   May I end with warm congratulations to all for making this concert such a joyful event.  To everyone present this evening, I send you early greetings for a merry Christmas and happy New Year.  Thank you.