We are pleased to introduce Mr. Sean Softley, who joins Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong (Senior School) as Head of Special Educational Needs (SEN). With extensive experience in inclusive education and student support, Mr. Softley is dedicated to ensuring that every pupil has the tools, confidence, and strategies they need to reach their full potential.
Read on to discover his teaching philosophy, inspirations, and what he’s most looking forward to this year.
Q&A with Mr. Sean Softley
Tell us about your role at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
I support students with a variety of learning needs to access the help they need and develop stronger study habits, learning strategies, and executive functioning skills.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
As a student in Canada, I felt that many education systems struggle to support students with different learning styles. My goal in becoming a teacher was to help develop the education system from within to provide better learning outcomes and success for students who struggle with traditional education.
How would you describe your teaching style?
I feel that teaching is more about building relationships than about providing content knowledge. Therefore, I work to ensure that I have a strong relationship with my students, learning about their interests, habits, goals, backgrounds, and preferences to better support their learning.
What’s one thing you hope students take away from your teaching?
I hope that students develop stronger skills and strategies that they can use to build a strong future in education, work, and life. I hope that these skills will be applicable to whatever they choose to do after leaving Wycombe Abbey School.
What do you love about Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong?
I love that Wycombe Abbey School has a small, strong, and supportive community. I love the commitment to supporting all students’ success. It is wonderful to have the opportunity to know all the individuals within the school community.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities, school events, or initiatives?
I will be planning several events to support mental health and learning habits later in the year. I am also involved in organising and running the Tabletop Role Playing Game Club where we practise imaginative world building, writing, English language, and simple maths skills.
What book, movie, or song would you recommend to your students—and why?
My favourite book (and movie) is The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. I love the message that it is often the little people who can make the most difference in the world. Additionally, I enjoy the inspirational quotes that Tolkien uses to convey messages of hope and optimism.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of school? What is a fun fact about yourself?
Before becoming a teacher, I was a professional musician and continue to play music in venues around Hong Kong.
What are you looking forward to most this year?
I am really looking forward to contributing positively to the development of a brand-new school. I look forward to getting to know each of the students and helping to prepare them for success.
We are excited to welcome Mr. Softley to the Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong community. His student-centred approach and dedication to helping every pupil grow in confidence and independence will make a meaningful impact across our Senior School. We look forward to seeing the positive difference he will bring as Head of SEN, continuing to strengthen the culture of care and support that defines our school.
Stay tuned for more introductions in our Introducing Our New Teachers Series as we continue to welcome exceptional educators to Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
