It’s the thought that counts - from unfulfilling marketing to beautiful, fun mathematics: Pat Stafford’s path to RCHK

By Annabelle Wong

Some of you may know Mr Stafford, our new mathematics teacher. He comes from Britain and has recently taught at Island School in Hong Kong. His lessons are not your average mathematics classes; in this Teacher Spotlight, we find out how he makes them fun. The RCHK Truth interviewed him about his life choices (seriously).

What made you teach mathematics?

Before teaching, my job was as a marketer. It was interesting, but not fulfilling. Teaching was a fulfilling job, and it contributed more to society. Educating the younger generation was contributing to the society, interesting, and fulfilling. As parents often say, spending time with children makes life worthwhile.

What were your first impressions of the students at RCHK?

The students were friendly, warm, and welcoming. Coming to a new school is not easy, and students here made it easier to adjust. It was nice to see their support on Pi Day: it inspired my win!

How do you teach mathematics in a fun way?

Mathematics is fun! Most people like puzzles and problem solving, so these can be applied in classroom teaching. When mathematics gets boring, it is when you do it on autopilot, such as doing calculations without any problem to solve. Classroom mathematics isn’t just about calculations, but about how to solve a problem.

How do you think mathematics can help people in the future?

Problem solving and thinking can help people in their futures, but there are more people wondering “is this useful” in mathematics than, for example, science. Most of the things in science we might not need, but mathematics is something that most people wonder more about. Fractions are one thing. Algebra is also questioned. Although these may be a bit boring, the thought process is the most important part.

What did you see in mathematics that made you interested in it?

Maths is beautiful. I only started liking it when I started teaching it. I love explanations and also have sympathy for students because mathematics can be boring in exams and tests. I was once a student too, you know.