We are pleased to introduce Ms Maria Cecilia Nazareno, Head of Maths at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong. Teaching Maths across Years 6, 7 and 8. Ms Nazareno brings a supportive yet structured approach to the classroom, encouraging pupils to reflect on their learning, overcome challenges and focus on finding solutions.
Read on to discover more about her journey into teaching, her teaching philosophy, and what she is most looking forward to this year.
Q&A with Ms Nazareno
Tell us about your role at Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong.
I teach Maths to Years 6, 7 and 8, and starting this year, I am also Head of Maths.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
Before becoming a teacher, I worked for a business newspaper as a Special Features Editor and later as a Marketing Manager for an insurance company, but I never found the fulfilment I was looking for. A one-year teaching opportunity in Guam changed that. From the moment I taught my first class, it felt like home.
What inspired me to stay a teacher is seeing the spark in a student’s eyes when something clicks, sharing experiences beyond academics, and helping students navigate challenges. I have long learnt that teaching is more than a profession; it is a vocation — something you choose, commit to and are passionate about because of the impact you can have on the lives of the children in your care.
How would you describe your teaching style?
A balance of strict and relaxed — sometimes with singing and dancing! I push those I can and support those who need it. I also ask pupils to reflect on their results so they can understand the reasons behind both their successes and mistakes.
What’s one thing you hope students take away from your teaching?
Aside from academic knowledge, I want my pupils to live by: “No excuses, ONLY SOLUTIONS!” I always tell them that the time spent looking for an excuse could be better spent finding a solution.
What do you love about Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong?
I love the closeness of the pupils and staff. Although I joined at the beginning of Term 3, I never felt like the “new staff member”. Everyone was welcoming and supportive, and the pupils were a joy to teach.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities, school events, or initiatives?
This year, I am leading the Green Entrepreneurs ECA, which I’m very excited about! Pupils will reuse and repurpose discarded materials, such as paper and bottles, to create useful and beautiful products. If possible, I would also love to start an after-school dance fitness class for staff!
What book, movie, or song would you recommend to your students—and why?
I would recommend Hall of Fame. Its message is that you can achieve great things, but you cannot simply wait for luck — you need to dedicate yourself to reaching your goals.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of school? What is a fun fact about yourself?
I enjoy playing mahjong, as well as calligraphy, watercolour painting and digital art. I also love staying active through Zumba, yoga and tai chi — and, perhaps more unexpectedly, belly dancing!
What are you looking forward to most this year?
I’m looking forward to getting to know the students from the start of the year and seeing how much they have matured and grown by the end of it.
Through her supportive and solution-focused approach to Mathematics, Ms Nazareno encourages pupils to reflect on their learning, overcome challenges and grow in confidence. As Head of Maths, we look forward to seeing the impact of her work in the classroom and across the wider school community.out the wider school community.
