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HONG KONG
AFTER SCHOOL GUIDE 2020
best activities for kids beyond the school gates
After School Guide 2020 2 Contributors
Meet the team
4
Readers' say
Kids' favourite activities
6
Learn the lingo
Develop a multilingual chatterbox
p.18
9 STEM
Courses to encourage the next Einstein
12 Get creative
Inspiring classes in all the arts
18 Adventure awaits
Sports for keeping the kids active
24 Little campers
p.28
p.12
Taking education outside
28 Exam prep
Ace those pesky tests
32 Extra support
Helping every child reach their potential
34 First steps
Playgrounds for little ones
p.9
36 Snack attack
After-school nibbles
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who’s in charge? Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Managing Editor Gemma Shaw
Contributing Editor Nicole Slater
As a child, my parents kept me busy, busy, busy. Mondays were reserved for badminton; Tuesdays for maths tutor; Wednesdays for swimming; Thursdays for horse riding; Fridays for art; Saturdays for badminton (again); and finally, a day of rest on Sunday before the whole cycle started again.
Editorial Assistant Charmaine Ng
Design vicky@hongkongliving.com Graphic Designer Vicky Lam
Editor’s letter
Graphic Designer Yankee Tsang
Sales & Marketing talk@hongkongliving.com Director of Partnerships Hilda Chan
Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui
Partnership Manager Joey Ho
Partnership Manager Elaine Li
Digital apple@hongkongliving.com
This may sound crazy for some, but looking back, having a packed schedule was a good way to keep me occupied during my otherwise empty afternoons. The mixture of tutorial lessons, creative classes and sports sessions kept me on my toes as a kid and helped me with my learning as a teenager. It’s no secret that after school activities can improve a child’s motor development and polish his or her learning. With that established, what shall it be today? Robotics, drama or rock climbing? Hong Kong has a wide variety of extracurricular activities on offer for the little ones, so whether you’ve got a budding astronomer or a fledgling best-selling author, there’s something for everyone, guaranteed. Remember to check out the back page, too – we’ve drawn up a list of the best snack ideas to keep the little ones fuelled up when they return from school or from a class. Yum yum!
ine Charma
Digital Editor Apple Lee
Publisher tom@hongkongliving.com
Ng
Contributors
Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com
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Gemma Shaw What was your favourite after school activity? I grew up in the UK, where my friends and I organised our own swimming club on Monday evenings. I used to love it because we’d take it in turns to go to each other’s houses for tea beforehand. I still remember how cold it was jumping into the pool, especially in the winter!
Nicole Slater What was your favourite after school activity? Unlike most children, I used to hate doing anything after school. The highlight of my day involved raiding the cupboards for snacks after school and munching all the way through to dinner time. Check out our backpage for 20 of my favourite snacks!
Apple Lee What was your favourite after school activity? I used to go to the dance studio three to four times a week. I did ballet, folk dance, Latin dance, jazz and jazz funk, but my favourite genre was (and still is) hip hop and urban dance. The highlight was definitely taking part in (and dressing up for) the performances and competitions.
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readers' say
Danica 6 years old “I love making art because it’s so fun and colourful. Sometimes I use my hands or crayons to paint. Anything I see can be used for making art, even a tissue box, it’s called junk art!"
Kids te
Hong Kong kids share after school a
Esther 9 years old “My favourite thing to do is playing with animals. I love fluffy animals like Loki and Duke because of lots of reasons like they are cute. Loki and Duke always lick me.”
Josh 6 years old “I like tennis because it’s outdoors. I get to see my friends, we run around and hit the ball hard.”
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kids club
Maya and Ava 8 & 5 years old “We love baking because when we are done we can share the food we made and it's so much fun!"
ell all
e their favourite activities
Connor 18 years old “Rugby is a good physical after school activity that provides a good atmosphere and team spirit. It's good for letting off steam.”
Noelle 6 years old “I like training CrossFit Asphodel because exercising keeps me healthy and strong. Burpees, air squats, wall walk and kettlebell lifting are all something new and exciting.”
Luca 7 years old “I like learning Chinese at DaDi. We get to play and dance and even perform together in a show. It makes my homework easier and the teachers are kind.”
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language
Learn the lingo
Credit: Southside Mandarin
Language classes for little conversationalists
Spanish World Language Centre Based on Pottinger Street in Central, Spanish World Language Centre provides kids, teens and adults with a wide variety of Spanish language courses, including group lessons and private classes. Classes are open to those aged three and above and can be taught in small groups, individually or online. spanishworld.hk
SPANISH
Southside Mandarin As well as offering straightforward Mandarin lessons, this learning centre has playgroups and immersion programmes for children aged six months to 12 years. All classes are taught by professionally qualified native speakers with experience in early childhood and primary education. southsidemandarin.com
MANDARIN
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ESF Language & Learning ESF language programmes are taught from a dedicated language centre on Johnson Road in Wan Chai and classes are open to both ESF and non-ESF students. An emphasis is placed on the acquisition of key skills such as reading, comprehension, listening, speaking and writing
through hands-on and interactive activities. All teachers are qualified early years educators and first aid-trained. esf.org.hk
MULTIPLE
bonjour Mini Mandarins Children aged from eighteen months get the best of both worlds at Mini Mandarins, which combines language learning with interactive play. With made-to-scale models of real-world places, children are immersed in everyday situations to develop fluency and practical vocabulary. Classes run year-round, Monday to Saturday in Central and Causeway Bay. minimandarins.com
MANDARIN
HK Kidz Since 1985, HK Kidz has been at the forefront of teaching foreign languages across the territory. Whether your child wants to improve a second language or prepare for language examinations, the institute has a range of courses. It offers private tuition, semi-private tuition and small-group classes, with programmes running one or two classes per week. hklanguages.com
Credit: Le club des cinq
MULTIPLE
Hong Kong Institute of Languages True to its name, Hong Kong Institution of Languages teaches a wide range of languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin and Japanese courses for children aged 18 months to 12 years. It occasionally hosts special events for students to mingle and learn through play. hklanguages.com
MULTIPLE
Le club des cinq - French Learning Centre Founded in 2013, Le club des cinq - French Learning Centre has created programmes according to the age and the level of each child. From discovering the French language to IGCSE or IB preparation, the aim of the school is to offer the best French classes for everyone. The three pillars of its teaching approach are entertaining material, projectoriented classes and tailor-made care. Lessons are offered as one-on-one tuition or in small groups. Located in Wan Chai,
FRENCH
teachers can also come to your home. frenchlessons.hk
Interactive French Based in Wan Chai, Interactive French offers a fun-filled, effective and motivating learning environment where your child can gain maximum exposure to the French language. Led by highcalibre tutors with extensive experience in teaching French as a foreign language, Interactive French is the ideal centre for both leisure learners and exam-takers of all ages. interactivefrench.hk
FRENCH
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STEM
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science fun
Little scientists Nurture your child’s curiosity with these STEM classes
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Credit: Coding Kids
STEM
ActiveKids Hong Kong
Bricks 4 Kidz
Keep the children active during the holidays with a whole range of camps for ages three to 17. Choices include hands-on science, chess, cooking, robotics and coding, fashion design and arts and crafts. For camps further afield, Young Global Leaders is a two-week programme held in China. activekidshk.com
Bricks 4 Kidz delivers hands-on, play-based educational classes using LEGO bricks. Children ages two and a half to 12 can explore architectural, engineering and technological
Creative Coding Kids are encouraged to tinker and explore in STEAM-based courses at Creative Coding. Its range of courses in coding and robotics teach students to develop the 4Cs of creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking – all essential skills for the future – through learning programming language and designing their own robots with sensors and LEDs. creativecoding.hk
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concepts in creative themes such as space inventions, famous buildings and natural disasters. It also hosts holiday camps, birthday parties and nights out for kids. bricks4kidz.com.hk
science fun Cobo Academy Give your child a head start into the future through solving real-world problems. Cobo Academy offers early exposure to coding and robotics for children ages four and above. Students are divided by age group into various programmes including Intern, Junior, Senior, Principal and Fellow. Fun fact: these programme names are inspired by the engineer ranks used by Google and Microsoft. coboacademy.com
MakerBay MakerBay is a Hong Kong-based group that focuses on creating centres for the youth with the necessary space and tools to encourage innovation for social impact. The space is great for kids to get exposure through their range of classes about 3D printing, woodwork and metalwork induction. makerbay.org
Coding Kids
Colour My World offers computer science and coding workshops like The Da Vinci Code for inquisitive young minds aged five and above. Combining the world of science with artistic projects and practical outputs, participants will gain a unique perspective into the world of technology, all whilst developing and enhancing their own sense of artistry and creative vision. colour-my-world.com
Coding 101 Coding 101 is a trusted STEM and coding education partner established by a group of IT and education professionals. Its courses are perfect for children ranging from primary to tertiary level to reinforce their STEM education, with inventive robotics workshops and coding lessons for SCRATCH, App, Inventor 2, Python and more. coding101.hk
Credit: Colour My World Unity Sci Fi Hallway by Indy Taen
Colour My World
Coding Kids is an online education platform where kids and adults can find classes that fit their time and needs. For the youngest age group of six to eight years old, Coding Kids offers fun coding adventures and web development exercises. The more advanced classes include lessons to learn JavaScript, Python and digital art. codingkidshk.com
Dalton Learning Lab Dalton Learning Lab has a student-centric approach to help children gain knowledge by encouraging them to solve real-world tech problems. It aims to improve the digital proficiency of kids particularly in AI and robotics, areas that are viewed as the most prevalent in our tech-driven future. daltonlearninglab.com
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arts
Never stop creating Expressive activities to inspire your children
Arts & crafts
music and let inspiration strike. The Wong Chuk Hang venue boasts both a garden terrace and an indoor studio, open six days a week. Prices start at $250 per session and vary according to canvas size. artjamming.com
Artjamming
Anastassia’s Art House
At Artjamming, visitors can sit down and paint for hours. The studio provides all the necessary equipment so all you need to do is put on some
Hong Kong’s only Russian Art Academy offers a range of structured art classes for adults and children aged three to 16 years old. Students
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have an array of choices, including painting, drawing, sketching, ceramics, creative drama and design. Art parties and workshops are also available. Centres are located all over Hong Kong, including Happy Valley, Repulse Bay and Sai Kung. arthouse-hk.com
Artful Kids Established by professional artist and teacher Gail Deayton, Artful Kids is a unique world for
creative classes
Creative writing Shakespeare4All Shakespeare4All is one of Hong Kong’s leading
performing arts education organisations. It is a registered charity founded in 2003 with the purpose of building fluency and confidence in English through performing Shakespearean plays. It is recognised throughout Hong Kong for its spectacular annual Shakespeare Gala event, supported by founding sponsor SWIRE Properties and has provided drama experiences to thousands of students from aided, direct subsidy, government and private schools in the region. s4a.org.hk
Elephant Community Press Publication is now an attainable dream for children with the help of Elephant Community Press. Children aged four and above are guided through every stage of
writing in project-based workshops held throughout the year. Completed works are published online or in print for parents, peers and the larger community to enjoy. elephantcommunitypress.com
Gold Star Gold Star was founded in 2010 by Peter Phillips, the grandson of Queen Elizabeth II of the UK. The school offers a unique English curriculum for children aged three to 12 years, with four specialist courses including the Write Away programme. The well-structured writing course aims to develop a child’s reading comprehension and writing skills, help them build vocabulary and learn the fun of grammar. goldstar.edu.hk
Credit: Anastassia’s Art House
children, all about creativity, laughter, learning and self-expression. With a huge range of activities, materials and projects to choose from, there’s bound to be something that kids will like. The studio also holds parties for children with activities such as painting canvases and making hats fit for princesses. For kids of all ages. artfulkids.hk
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arts Starlit Voice Starlit Voice’s programmes are infused with an incredible sense of energy and creativity, delivered by highly skilled and passionate practitioners drawing upon a wealth of drama and performing arts experience. Teachers help develop the confidence of each individual learner and give them the platform to express their own unique ideas while developing and nurturing the essential skills needed to work with others. starlitvoice.com
STAGE RIGHT! Enriching young people’s knowledge of theatre since 2011, STAGE RIGHT! offers workshops that allow children of all ages to explore their acting and performance skills and investigate real-world issues in a safe and controlled environment. stagerighthk.com
The Absolutely Fabulous Theatre Connection Established in 2008, AFTEC believes that children learn through the arts. The awardwinning learning centre is also a registered charity that offers a range of performing arts programs in both Chinese and English for primary to secondary school students. AFTEC also offers classes for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other learning difficulties. aftec.hk
Dance Academy of Dance Catering to all styles of dance, the Academy of Dance is the perfect way to get your kids moving and grooving. Its classes include jazz, hip hop and ballet for children, teens and adults. The academy also holds an annual stage performance to showcase their students’ talent. academyofdance.com.hk
Drama Faust International Established in 1999, Faust runs drama workshops for children aged three to 18
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at venues across Hong Kong. In fun, lively sessions, Faust introduces children to the world of theatre and creativity, developing performance skills, theatre knowledge, teamwork, individual expression and confidence. Classes are open to everybody, with no previous drama experience needed. Faust also organises productions at Hong Kong theatres during the year. faustworld.com.hk
Skydance Avenue Skydance Avenue offers a dynamic selection of dance programmes for different age groups, including Creative Movement for Toddlers, Hip Hop, Cheernastics (a fusion of cheerleading and gymnastic skills), Dancehall Teens and Jazz Funk. Class locations are dotted around Hong Kong, including a central studio in Midlevels. skydanceavenuehk.com
Credit: Russian Ballet School
creative classes
Twinkle Dance Twinkle Dance offers ballet, jazz and contemporary dance classes for children aged 18 months and above. The classes seek to engage kids by using fun visual themes that they can connect with. All of the teachers have professional training and qualifications. Branches are located in Central, Causeway Bay and Wong Chuk Hang. twinkledance.com
Russian Ballet School The first ballet school in Hong Kong to follow the disciplined yet vibrant Vaganova system, the Russian Ballet School takes from the rich history of Russian ballet and teaches with a unique focus on performance readiness and individual correction, allowing every student to shine with elegance. russianballetschool-hk.com
Southern School of Dance Credit: STAGE RIGHT!
Dance the day away with Southern School of Dance! Children will love the ballet, tap, and modern dance lessons, and shine in their annual performances. Don’t feel left out, Mums – you can enrol in the ladies’ Ballet Fitness Classes to shape up into your healthiest and most elegant selves. southernschoolofdance.com.hk
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Credit: Twiinkle Dance
arts
Music String & Keyboard Musik Limited
MusicSage MusicSage is an online platform to search for high quality, private music tutors in Hong Kong. With over 100 tutors listed, covering more than 25 different instruments, it is easy to find a tutor who suits your child’s interests, availability and budget. You can also enjoy
the flexibility of booking one trial lesson first before committing to more. musicsage.io
Slack Trax Let your little ones learn the art of mixing at Slack Trax, a specialist school in Lai Chi Kok with a professional team composed of DJs and producers who have established a career in Hong Kong. The school offers one-to-one and group DJ classes, as well as recording and consulting services, for all ages. slacktraxstudio.com
Credit: Southern School of Dance
Looking to give your little ones a head start in the music world? String & Keyboard Musik specialises in teaching the piano, harp and violin. It offers a range of
courses for younger musicians such as Sing Along Music Development courses and Music Therapy Composition Course. stringsandkeyboardmusik.com
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sport
Budding sports stars Burn off some steam at these sports classes and clubs
SWIMMING Harry Wright International Founded in 1975, the premier swim school offers infant aquatics for children as young as four months, as well as learn to swim and competitive swimming programmes. Lessons available at various clubs and schools in Pok Fu Lam, Deep Water Bay, Aberdeen, Causeway Bay, Discovery Bay and Kowloon Bay. harrywright.com.hk
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ESF Sharks Swimming Shark, dead ahead! ESF Sports is a specialised youth sports coaching organisation with experienced and qualified coaches. The swimming lessons run by ESF Sharks are fun, exciting and safe, building up children to become confident and agile swimmers with key aquatic skills. There are courses for all ages and experience levels. esf.org.hk
be active
against other clubs in the Elite Academy Programme. esf.org.hk
Hong Kong Basketball Academy Founded by former Hong Kong National player Jason Yam, the academy is open to beginners and more advanced players alike and offers both girls and boys one-on-one and smallgroup coaching as well as camps throughout the year. Training is held at multiple locations including Stanley, Wong Chuk Hang and Sai Ying Pun. hkbaallday.com
FOOTBALL HK Dragons Football Club
Hong Kong Island Stingrays Swim Club This swim club aims to provide every swimmer with the best possible training environment and resources in order to help them to fulfil their potential. The club is consistently ranked as one of the region’s top competitive swim teams. Lessons and squad training take place at Hong Kong International School in Tai Tam. hkstingrays.com
BASKETBALL
With over 25 years experience on the playing field and professional qualifications in youth coaching and child development, HK Dragons Football Club has its eye on the ball! Each session is tailored to suit the student’s level of ability, and focuses on improving children’s skills to make real progress. dragons.hk
ESF Tigers Basketball
ESF Lions Football
ESF Tigers basketball programme focuses on delivering key fundamental skills using ageappropriate equipment, such as small balls and height adjustable hoops to stimulate and nurture a child’s development in the sport. Players have the opportunity to refine their skills and athleticism with the chance to compete
This football programme, taught by highly qualified coaches, will foster a love of the game through fun, progressive and ageappropriate coaching sessions. Players have the opportunity to develop their skills and play in Player Development and Academy Programmes. esf.org.hk
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be active the opportunity to represent Hong Kong in the national squad. hkrugby.com
Hong Kong Jockey Club Public Riding School
Valley Fort Rugby Football Club
Giddy-up! Riding enthusiasts are trained to the British Horse Society standards at Hong Kong Jockey Club Public Riding School. The school is also home to the Riding for the Disabled Association which helps disabled children learn how to ride. Three locations in Tuen Mun, Pok Fu Lam and Lei Yue Mun. hkjc.com
As one of the oldest mini and youth rugby clubs in Hong Kong, Valley Fort has a range of teams for budding rugby players as well as a senior squad for professional games. Training sessions for its 600 playing members are held in Stanley Fort, Tai Tam, Aberdeen and Happy Valley. valleyfort.com
RUGBY
SAILING
HK Rugby Union
Hebe Haven Yacht Club
Learning rugby helps to foster skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork and fair play. Children from the age of four can start training under the HKRU Junior Programme in a safe and multi-ethnic environment. Under 7s and Under 12s are registered at one of 20 mini rugby clubs, while Under 14s and Under 19s are placed in the Colts Programme, where they will compete in league events and even have
The Hebe Haven Yacht Club has been providing boating and yachting facilities in the picturesque bay of Pak Sha Wan in Sai Kung since 1963. As well as an extensive school sailing programme, it also offers courses for children through the Development Fund for Youth Sailing Programme at the Sail Training Center. hhyc.org.hk
Credit: Valley Fort Rugby Football Club
HORSE RIDING
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Credit: Tennis Elite
be active
Aberdeen Boat Club ABC is a recognised Hong Kong Sailing Federation centre well known for its sailing and watersports activities for children and teenagers, including kayaking, wakeboarding, windsurfing and SUP. The ABC Junior Sailing Programme for ages seven to 11 is open to non-members and teaches students how to sail ‘Optimists’, special seven-foot dinghies. abclubhk.com
TENNIS
to adult clinics and even tennis holiday retreats. tennis-elite.com
MIXED ProActiv Sports Previously known as Sports4Kids, ProActiv Sports hosts classes in multi-sport, soccer, tennis, swimming, gymnastics and basketball for all ages and abilities. The action-packed sports classes are run by passionate and
qualified coaches at locations all over Hong Kong. hk.proactivsports.com
Minisport HK Minisport HK is an enthusiastic group of sports educators who teach multiple disciplines to children aged 18 months to nine years through schools, clubs and private residences around Hong Kong. Minisport coaches over 400 children per week while also hosting holiday sport camps and children’s parties. sportsclassesforkidshk.com
Hong Kong Golf and Tennis Academy With seven outdoor courts, one International Tennis Federation-standard indoor court and two mini-tennis courts for children, HKGTA is perfect for little ones wanting to be the next tennis star. The Bruguera Tennis Academy was developed by world-famous tennis coach Lluis Bruguera and helps students develop the technical, tactical, physical and psychological skills required for success. hkgta.com
Tennis Elite Tennis Elite is a sports company that specialises in delivering tennis coaching services exclusively to private residencies in Hong Kong. Its programmes cater to all ages and abilities, ranging from junior group classes
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camps
Take it outdoors Educational camps to fill the holidays
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Credit: Hebe Haven Yacht Club
go outdoors
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Credit: Ark Eden on Lantau
camps
Outward Bound The premier provider of experience-based outdoor learning and leadership programmes, Outward Bound organises a variety of challenging and exciting outdoor camps for children and youth, allowing them to spread their wings and explore the natural world. outwardbound.org.hk
Scout Association of Hong Kong Hong Kong’s leading voluntary organisation for young people, the Scout Association of Hong Kong provides training programmes that challenge participants both physically and mentally. Scout training allows children and teens to not only serve their community and
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develop a sense of responsibility to society, but also to realise their full potential. scout.org.hk
Treasure Island Get your kids out and about! Treasure Island offers children a transformative and rewarding outdoor experience through a series of adventure, community and environmental programmes. With various exciting (and safe) surf and adventure camps, your children can explore their passion for life and the great outdoors. treasureislandhk.com
ESF Holiday Programmes ESF believes that fun and learning doesn’t have to stop when school does. Parents who are looking for an activity to excite, engage and interest their
child when school is out can choose between language and sports camps. Classics such as Spanish learning, fencing lessons and swim training take place across ESF’s centres and schools in Hong Kong. esf.org.hk
YMCA Best known for their camping programmes, YMCA provides regular camps for children aged five to 14 years old. Camps are split by age group and each programme has a specific focus. Sports Camps, for example, help children develop healthy and active living habits, whilst Specialty Camps are learning focused and give children the opportunity to explore interests such as astronomy, cooking and photography. ymcahk.org.hk
Credit: Hebe Haven Yacht Club
go outdoors
A-Team Edventures
Hebe Haven Yacht Club
Ark Eden on Lantau
A-Team Edventures offers activity-packed water sports camps with surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing and slacklining, suitable for children aged eight to 18. The camps are held at beautiful Tai Long Sai Wan beach and run from July to August. Family adventure programmes are also available. ateamedventures.com
Adventure Watersports Weeks are run by Hebe Haven Yacht Club during the school holidays. The camps provide a safe and guided environment for children aged six to 14 years old to take part in a variety of different water-based activities. Expect fun outdoor adventures such as sailing on various dinghies at the centre, day trips to the outer islands of Sai Kung, beach games, kayaking and more. hhyc.org.hk
Ark Eden has been running holiday camps for young children since 2008. These camps have become very popular and take place at Ark Eden’s beautiful site: a forested valley garden in the foothills of Mui Wo, Lantau Island with occasional trips to nearby beaches, waterfalls and other islands. Most camps run from Monday to Friday, with Thursday nights reserved for overnight wild camps and sleeping in tents. arkedenonlantau.org
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exam prep
Exams in progress
Credit: Sylvan Learning Centre
Ace those tests with specialist help
Keystone Tutors In 2018, one of London’s most popular tutoring agencies arrived in Hong Kong. Specialists in all areas related to the British curriculum, Keystone Tutors offers online tutoring for all stages of the UK system including 11+, 13+ and GCSEs. In a city full of education centres, what truly sets the company apart is the quality of its tutors, who are experts in their field. keystonetutors.com
Bespoke Tuition Bespoke Tuition offers customised one-toone or small group home tutoring solutions for students by the hour, week or full time. A consultant is on hand to guide you through the process of handpicking tutors to suit a
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student’s unique objectives and personality. Every school and university subject is covered, as well as key study and life skills, including exam technique, time management, public speaking and critical thinking. bespoketuition.com
HK Education Tutoring Services (HKETS) Established in 2003, HKETS provides the English speaking community of Hong Kong with a range of educational services including private, individual and small group tuition, teachers referral for schools, overseas education advice, school placements and university application assistance. Many tutors
hold post-graduate certifications in their specialist subjects. Lessons are held at the ETS Education Centre in Central, via Skype or at the student’s chosen venue. hkets.net
Ampla Education With an experienced team comprised of Oxbridge, Yale and Imperial graduates, Ampla Education offers tuition for a vast range of exams, including GCSEs, A-Levels, IB and Pre-U, as well as bespoke programmes for tests such as IELTS and SATs. Admissions preparation courses and comprehensive consulting services are available for those considering boarding schools and universities abroad. ampla-edu.com
study hard Causeway Education In creating immersive learning environments for students to actively engage, Causeway Education prepares students for US, UK and IB curricula as well as SAT/ACT. Its team of experienced tutors are also on hand for university advice and admissions. causewayeducation.com
Sylvan Learning Centre
Tute.HK
ITS Education Asia provides educational support for children and adults across a range of subjects, as well as exam preparation services for SATs, IGCSEs, A-Levels, IB, HKDSE, IELTS and more. ITS also offers university admissions advice and an education consulting service that works with families and employers to find the right schools for children. Locations in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui. itseducation.asia
By using a diagnostic assessment, Sylvan Learning Centre is able to establish a child’s strengths and weaknesses and design a tailor-made programme for each child. It offers tuition in a range of subjects, including Maths, Science, Mandarin and English, plus school entrance exam preparation for children aged five to 18. It has centres in Wan Chai, Wong Chuk Hang and Repulse Bay. sylvan.edu.hk
Tute.HK employs British undergraduates from top UK universities to lead online tutorials. Students can opt for one-on-one or group sessions in almost any discipline or area. All sessions are recorded so students are able to replay their learning and parents are able to keep track of their progress. The study areas covered include the UK Entrance Test, IGCSEs, A-Levels and IB. learn.tute.com
Credit: Ampla Education
ITS Education Asia
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exam prep Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions is an international provider of educational services. It offers a comprehensive range of programmes from language tuition to exam and admissions preparation, including IELTS. Personal tuition classes can be booked in 10-hour packages with additional hours purchased after that. kaplan.com.hk
Campion College Consultancy After 20 years as head of careers at ESF’s South Island School, Martin Campion set up independently as a higher education consultant. Able to advise on universities and colleges in the UK, US and Canada amongst others, he has an in-depth understanding of the path from an international school to global tertiary education. campionhk.com
Tutor Partners Tutor Partners deals with students on an individual basis, tailoring lessons to each child’s specific needs. IB and GCSE subjects from Years 1 to 13 are covered, as well as support for MYP Projects and IB Extended Essays, UK Common Entrance exams, SATs and A-Levels. Students can choose to have the lessons at the tutor’s home or in the comfort of their own home. tutorpartners@aol.com
PowerBrain Rx Established in 2012, PowerBrain Rx is the only cognitive brain-training centre in Hong Kong. Brain training exercises are a system of highly targeted exercises used to improve your noggin’s cognitive skills. PowerBrain Rx courses are suitable for almost everyone, from three-year-olds to seniors, as well as career professionals and individuals with attention challenges. powerbrainrx.com
Kumon The Kumon Method was founded in 1958 in Japan. It aims to fully pursue the potential of each individual student. This is achieved through individualised instruction regardless of age or school grade, self-learning and advancing beyond school grades. kumon.com.hk
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YWCA - Centre of Learning and Life Enhancement The CLLE is an innovative, multicultural and professional one-stop learning centre equipped with a full spectrum of educational and learning services. Its 2000 specialised courses include developmental areas such as school interview preparation and speech classes. The centre is located at Mid-levels. clle.ywca.org.hk
Capstone Prep Education Capstone provides students with a foundation in critical thinking and problem solving to help mentally prepare them for the academic environment and the world. Its variety of test prep services ensures preparation for secondary and boarding school entrance exams, SSAT, SAT and ACT courses and tutoring for AP and IB exams. capstoneprep.com
exam prep
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extra help
A little extra help
Credit: Sprout in Motion
Not every child fits the same mould or learns at the same rate
The APF uses the renowned Applied Behaviour Analysis approach to encourage the potential of children with autism to bloom. It runs the Aoi Pui private primary school, the only one in Hong Kong to cater specifically for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). apf.org.hk
Child Development Centre The CDC provides support to children with a wide spectrum of individual abilities and needs. Educational programmes are based on the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage, backed up by various learning tools, methodologies,
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assessments and therapies to develop each child’s maximum potential. cdchk.org
ESF Jockey Club Sarah Roe School Each ESF school has a Learning Support centre and accepts children with learning disabilities into mainstream classes. If your child requires more intensive teaching, the ESF Jockey Club Sarah Roe School is a through-school for children aged five to 19 with special needs including Down Syndrome and ASD. As well as literacy and numeracy programmes, there is an emphasis on teaching independence and vocational training. jcsrs.edu.hk
Credit: SPOT
Autism Partnership Foundation
SEN Watchdog Early Education Centre Watchdog offers support for newborns to six-year-olds who have ASD, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or other physical, learning and developmental issues. It provides intensive early intervention services, psychological assessment, specialist teaching and various therapies. watchdog.org.hk
Pathways For those wanting a focus on dyslexia, Pathways is the place for you. It runs regular parent evenings to share the latest insights into
reading difficulties and offers guidance on the teaching and learning of children with dyslexia. pathways.org.hk
SPOT With three centres around Hong Kong, SPOT is able to offer a variety of services and facilities, from sensory-motor therapy gyms and speech therapy sessions to dyslexia assistance and inschool support. It has both individual and group classes available to provide invaluable advice on all areas of a child’s development. spot.com.hk
Sprout in Motion Credit: Sarah Roe School
Working with those with suspected ADHD, dyslexia, ASD and other developmental disabilities, Sprout in Motion is a specialist centre for child and adolescent clinical psychology. It offers services in English, Cantonese or Mandarin and has centres in Central and Wong Chuk Hang. sproutinmotion.com
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pre-school
Play dates Childcare and indoor play options for little ones
Childcare Safari Kid International This is the first international unaccompanied day care centre for children under the age of two in Hong Kong. Childhood programmes are offered in Mandarin, English and Cantonese at its Happy Valley and Repulse Bay campuses. safarikidinternational.com
Rent-A-Mum Professional childcare service offering Englishspeaking nannies on a temporary or permanent basis for all ages. Ideal for an evening of babysitting or for mum who are returning to work. It even offers 24-hour maternity nurses and sleep troubleshooting for first-time parents. rent-a-mum.com
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Facebook: Hong Kong Teen Sitters This group is specifically for under 18-yearolds who have an interest in childcare and are looking for babysitting jobs. Teens have the energy to run around and entertain the kids. Availability is limited around school hours. facebook.com/groups/TeenSitters
Mumz For parents that miss swiping, this Tinder-like app helps you find your tribe. Scroll through the app and make friends with Mumz (or Dadz) in your area to create your own play dates. The app was created by Ekta Tejwani who also runs a Facebook group: Meet Mumz - Let's build it together. meetmumz.com
Bebegarten Bebegarten’s playgroups cater to crawlers (6-11 months), movers (11-16 months), toddlers (16-24 months) and transitioners (24-36 months). Monthly tuition starts from $1,800. Open 8am-5pm Monday to Friday. bebegarten.com
St John’s Playgroup This friendly, informal group meets at St John’s Cathedral in Central every Thursday from 2.304.30pm. Parents or carers can socialise over cake whilst the little ones interact and enjoy the large space. Children from birth to two years old are welcome and a range of toys are provided. For first-time attendees, contact Mrs Vanda Cole on 2855 7074. stjohnscathedral.org.hk
Credit: Leisure and Cultural Services Department
playtime
Indoor Play Children’s Play Rooms The Children’s Play Rooms are provided by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department with convenient locations across the city and are aimed at children up to nine years old (and below 142cm tall). Children under the age of four must be accompanied by an adult. Sessions are held every hour for 50 minutes. Check in advance for maintenance and cleaning days. lcsd.gov.hk
Toy Library The first of its kind in Hong Kong, the Toy Library can be found on the second floor of Hong Kong Central Library. It is aimed at children aged eight and below with four different play corners: Baby, Pretend and Imaginative, Creative, and Activities & Games. Sessions can be reserved up to one week in advance by calling 2921 0378. Remember to wear socks! hkpl.gov.hk
Playhouse Another multi-branch (North Point, Yau Tong and San Po Kong) indoor option that’s great for rainy or sweltering days, Playhouse has the classic soft-play format down to a T. Think slides, ball pits, obstacle courses and climbing frames, alongside other less commonplace amenities like electric driving circuits and library corners. All branches can be booked out for parties, and its San Po Kong branch also features a café. playhouse.com.hk
Funzone A classic crowd-pleaser that’s a sure-fire hit with the toddler-to-tween demographic, Funzone’s three convenient locations (Kennedy Town, Ma On Shan and North Point) mean that you’re never too far away from air-conditioned soft play. All three branches are spacious, perfect for cooped-up kids to run, jump, clamber and slide to their heart’s content. There are also dedicated toddler zones and on-site cafés for convenient refuelling. funzone.com.hk
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backpage
20
Lo Mein
Hard to resist when you walk past
after school snacks
… for when they get home and raid the fridge!
In string form, if you like
7/11
Hummus and veg
Crisps
Cake
The perk of having your birthday on
Cheese and crackers It’s like a mini lunch
All that cereal goodness in an easy
want to!
Mixed nuts
High in calories and good fats
Ice cream
A refreshing treat during summer
Guacamole and chips When in doubt, smash up an avocado!
When in Hong Kong….
Dumplings
Nutella
Straight out the jar - you know you
fat - just add salt, sugar or both!
...Or a cereal bar to eat bar… genius!
Popcorn
months
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High in fiber and low in calories and
For study dates!
Starbucks frappuccino
cereal
your favourite spread
a school day!
Toast
Keep it simple with butter or add
You can never have just one
never go wrong with a bowl of
day...
from all over the world
Cookies
An apple
Cereal
Morning, noon or night you can
Boiled egg
You know what they say, an apple a
Hong Kong stocks brands
The protein will keep you full
Delicious and one of your five-a-day
...Or just cheese
Have an early dinner
Technically not a snack, but a good solution if you’re STARVING….
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