Talking Heads Rae Lang

1. Do you have a nickname? No, well not one that has stuck.

2. Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in Dunedin, New Zealand, and grew up there too. Dunedin is a wonderful place, a vibrant student city with a diverse culture and strong arts scene, surrounded by hills and white sand beaches, and fantastic restaurants.

3. Where do you live in the city and why do you love it there? I am living in Wan Chai, Hong Kong and love it! It is a foodies paradise – with a wide range of choices. I’ve found a great local store that sells the best roast pigeon and another that sells freshly made dumplings. And the Wan Chai wet market has the freshest fruit and vegetables. There is an energy to Wan Chai.

4. What’s in your lunchbox? Today it is homemade roast chicken, lettuce, cheese and mayo sandwich, made with 5-grain seed bread. And a little packet of crisps!

1. What or who inspired you to become the director of teaching and learning at Woodland Pre-Schools? I’ve always known I would be in the education sector since I was very young. My primary school principal (Mr. Holloway) connected and inspired us and was so accepting of us as individuals. A senior leader once said "have the courage to lead, but lead with love" – and they live and breathe this. That’s inspirational.

2. Describe your schools in 5 words or less? Nurturing. Caring. Community.

1. What’s your favorite thing on your desk and why? A photo display of my friends – they just make me smile.

2. What are your 3 favorite children’s books? The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle; We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy by Lynley Dodd

1. What is the best way for parents to be involved in their children’s education? Talk with your child and listen. Spending the time and talking and with your child affirms those close relationships and bonds. Be interested in what they are interested and passionate about, open up those channels for dialogue and listen with open ears – it's amazing what our young children think and can do.

2. Any tips for parents when applying for schools? Due diligence. Think about what you want for your child, what are your hopes and aspirations for your child, what are your child’s interests and strengths, then find a school that will nurture this.

3. What’s the best advice a teacher of headmistress ever gave you? Find your passion and go for it. While attending a Women in Educational Leadership conference, during a panel discussion the panel was asked: “how do you start your leadership journey?” The unanimous response was “Take all the informal leadership opportunities you can – don’t wait for it to happen.”

Woodland Pre-schools

8 locations in Hong Kong, starting from 6 months to 6 years.

+852 2559 4855

www.woodlandschools.com