Expat Parent September 2021

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September 2021

Back to school

Into the wilderness Island-hopping in Sai Kung

Stories and snaps from the classroom

Plus

- ESF Island School - Life at Hong Kong Academy

The stage is set Inside Nord Anglia’s new campus

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CONT E N T S — 0 9/21

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COVER STORY Nord Anglia welcomes students to its new campus in Kwun Tong

Hello from the hot desk

Meet this month’s team

What’s on in September

8 MUST HAVES

36 HOROSCOPES

Raise your kitchen game with these stylish accessories

10 NEWS

Your monthly local news roundup

What to see and where to be seen this month

Redeck your patio for the cooler evenings

Letao Wang reveals your fate for September

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28 BIG DAY OUT

Island-hopping in Sai Kung

31 PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE

12 SCHOOL SNAPS

Discover a close-knit community at Hong Kong Academy

26 OUT ON THE TOWN

6 PLANNER

22 EDUCATION

4 CONTRIBUTORS

33 HOME & LIVING

A peek behind-the-scenes of new production Walking the Amazon

2 EDITOR’S LETTER

15 MY BIG IDEA

Meet Stephen Loggie, Principal at ESF Island School

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Fun in and out of the classroom

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22 28 10

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“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land amongst the stars.” - Les Brown

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editor’s Letter Parents across Hong Kong breathed a collective sigh of relief as students returned to classrooms for in-person lessons at the start of the new school year.

At Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong (NAIS), secondary students enjoyed induction days at the school’s brand new campus in Kwun Tong while primary students were welcomed back to the renovated campus in Lam Tin. Our September cover celebrates the achievements of the NAIS community since the school opened in 2014.

Nicole Slater visits Hong Kong Academy to meet some of the alumni and find out what they’ve accomplished since graduating and we catch up with Principal Stephen Loggie of ESF Island School as the school prepares to return to a brand new, state-of-the-art campus on Borrett Road in Mid Levels towards the end of this school year.

Mid-Autumn festivities just weeks away bring the promise of cooler air and with that, we go island-hopping in Sai Kung and Cheyelene Fontanilla

who’s in charge?

Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater

Editor Gemma Shaw

Features Editor Cheyelene Fontanilla

Senior Writer Charmaine Ng

Design vicky@hongkongliving.com Senior Graphic Designer Vicky Lam

Graphic Designer Joyce Ma

Partnerships talk@hongkongliving.com

seeks out the best garden furniture and decor both online and in Hong Kong.

We’re cool, but never too cool for school.

Director of Content Hilda Chan

Partnership Manager Elaine Li

Event Manager Pranali Gupta

Partnership Manager Debbie Ky

Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com

Editor’s picks

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

LUNA collection by Niin

To coincide with mid-autumn, niin celebrates its 12th anniversary with the launch of a new line of ethical and sustainably-sourced homewares encompassing upcycled woods and shells, bright blue resin and gold foil, like the tides of the waters shimmering in the moonlight. Shop the collection online at niinstyle.com 2 | EXPAT PARENT

RARE SkinFuel body range

Founded by Michelle Chen, Australianmade luxury beauty brand RARE SkinFuel is excited to launch its body range. Highlights include a hand cream and a body cream designed to delay signs of aging. The products are made without added water and packed with certified organic and active ingredients. rareskinfuel.com

hongkongliving.com

Photo Jill Carter Photography

HONG KONG Expat Parent is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Expat Parent cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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contributors Thank you to our contributors Oliver Corrin Originally from the Isle of Man in the UK, Oliver and his baby Sophia are our daddy daughter duo about town. Oliver is regional director for London-based interior design and branding studio CADA Design and is a fitness and food enthusiast. Check out what they’re getting up to this month on page 7.

Tina Wu Tina Wu is an admissions counselor at Kaplan. Leveraging her extensive banking and MBA experience, Tina coaches her students to realise their full potential as they embark on higher education. Read her column on university admissions in our school news section on page 11.

Stephen Loggie Stephen Loggie is Principal at Island School which is part of the ESF network. On page 31, Stephen shares what’s in store at the school as the community prepares to move into their new state-of-the-art campus on Borrett Road in Mid Levels next year. island.edu.hk

Jill Carter Jill Carter shot this month’s cover at Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong. Jill is a professional photographer specialising in family shoots, she is also studying for a Masters in counselling. jillcarterphotography.com

Cheyelene Fontanilla Cheyelene Fontanilla is features editor at Hong Kong Living. With cooler air approaching, head to page 32 for ideas on how to spruce up your gardens and patios.

Want to write for Expat Parent? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 4 | EXPAT PARENT

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what’s on

SEP 12 - OCT 31

Disney Halloween Time Enjoy ghostly parades, trick or treat with Disney’s iconic villains and revel in the pumpkin patches and haunted mansions. 10.30am–11pm.

From $639. hongkongdisneyland.com

UNTIL 19 SEP

Extended Figure: The Art and Inspiration of Lanlan Asia Society Hong Kong Centre celebrates artist Xie Jing-Lan’s significance as a pioneer of cross-disciplinary art. 11am-6pm. Free. Chantal Miller Gallery, Asia Society Hong Kong Centre. asiasociety.org

UNTIL SEP 30

Ocean Park Summer Nature Playground Enjoy an interactive nature playground and series of nature experiences for children. Ocean Park, Aberdeen. oceanpark.com.hk

SEP 2

Hungry Ghost Festival Appease the spirits of ancestors and other restless spirits who return to roam the earth.

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SEP 4

Tamby Chan: CuteAnon Tamby Chan headlines Backstage Comedy with his new show: CuteAnon. $200. 8pm-9.30pm.

The Hub, 1F Fortune Building, 150-158 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai.​​ thebackstagehk.com

SEP 8-12

Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair Asia’s premier unique showcase for international watch brands. 10.30am-6pm. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. hktdc.com

SEP 11

Sai Kung Mystery Night Adventure Discover Sai Kung’s nocturnal fauna on a unique night excursion around protected areas. 6.30pm-10pm. $300. Meet at Choi Hung MTR or Lion’s Nature Education Center. encompasshk.com

what’s on SEP 12

SEP 21

Chungking Mansions means a lot of things to different people. Join this tour to understand what this place means for residents and Africans in particular. Followed by an African buffet lunch. 11am-2pm. $250. Meet at East TST MTR. africacenterhk.com

An outdoor forest yoga and meditation session led by Sandra Chan under the full moon.

7pm-8.30pm. Tamar Park, Harcourt Road, Admiralty. meetup.com/forrestyogahk

Chungking Mansion Tour

Full Moon Charity Yoga

SEP 22

Mid-Autumn Festival

SEP 14

Celebrate the harvest by lighting up a lantern and tucking into mooncakes. Enjoy colourful and bright lantern displays across Hong Kong.

Dip Pen

A beginner’s workshop into dip pen calligraphy.

7-8.30pm. $700. Kalo Make Art studio, Ivy House, 18-20 Wyndham Street, Central. kalomakeart.com

SEP 20-22

Tai Hang Fire Dragon Parade Enjoy this exhilarating parade which is part of this year’s Mid-Autumn celebrations. Free.

8.15pm-10.30pm. Tai Hang, Causeway Bay.

SEP 21

Water World Ocean Park Ocean Park makes a splash this month with the opening of its highly-anticipated water park. Early-bird tickets from $225 for children and $320 for adults. Ocean Park, Aberdeen. oceanpark.com.hk

Dad about town New dad on the block, Oliver Corrin explores the darkside Having recently moved to Tsim Sha Tsui, an area synonymous with neon lights and luxury malls, I was understandably apprehensive when my wife left my 16-month-old and I to fend for ourselves for the best part of the weekend while she caught up on work.

Whilst our enviable new home at Rosewood Residences caters to our needs extremely well, I felt the need to take my offspring out for some (fresh) air.

Cue daddy-daughter day. This timeold tradition provides us dads with the opportunity to show our little ones how to have some fun and do all the things that mums, for one reason or another, don’t usually allow.

We began in the K11 basement, which is dedicated to kids. Although too young to be allowed inside, my daughter was thrilled to watch the three-plus-year-olds on the slides and in the ball pits at Donut

Playhouse. We ambled past the slime factory, toy shops, hair salons with carousel horses and cartoons, you name they have it. Then we (mainly I), indulged in a spot of afternoon tea at Fortnum & Masons 181. The restaurant is child-friendly with beautiful views and great service, plus the sandwiches are refilled as often as you like.

With full bellies (I’ll admit, I had to loosen the Ergobaby) we headed to Kowloon Park to witness fluorescent gangs of pink flamingos splashing around. After my best attempt at a David Attenborough impression, we made one last stop at Harbour City. Sophia spotted a shirt in Brooks Brothers with a very vibrant lemon print fabric. She made quite a fuss about it so thought I better try it on and subsequently decided to treat myself. Why not? After all, I needed to celebrate our first successful daddy-daughter day exploring the darkside.

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MUST HAVES

Spatula thermometer $175 from Baking Warehouse bakingwarehouse.com

Artisan KitchenAid $5,980 from Pan-Handler thepanhandler.biz

Silicone spoon $98 from slowood slowood.hk

Too hot to handle Cook up a storm with these stylish smoothie makers, spatulas and spoons

SMEG 4-slice toaster $2,100 from Fortress fortress.com.hk

Bamboo salt and pepper keeper $215 from Baking Warehouse bakingwarehouse.com

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Rig-Tig smoothie blender $425 from Homeless homeless.hk

MUST HAVES Wesco single breadboy bread bin $698 from Homeless homeless.hk

Superbee wax wraps $138 from Beyond Plastic beyondplastic.com.hk

Non-stick wok $1,180 from slowood slowood.hk

Wok turner $55 from Meyer hk.meyer.com

Reusable silicone bag $68 from slowood slowood.hk

6 piece spark essential set $1,359 from Meyer hk.meyer.com

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news

Another no try for the Sevens

Water World makes a splash Water World Ocean Park is set to open to the public on 21 September. The much-anticipated all-weather park is divided into five zones with a total of 27 outdoor and indoor attractions.

Highlights include the Torrential River where adventurers can enjoy high-adrenaline water rides and Rainbow Rush, an eight-lane 17-metre slide that takes adventurers on a high-speed and exhilarating water race ride. Admission prices will vary according to seasonality, and days of

New sustainable brand MiliMilu There’s a new sustainable clothing and lifestyle brand in town. MiliMilu is an online eco-friendly store that caters to the whole family. Founded

by DB-based expat Linda Morrison, the brand sources ethical clothing made from highquality organic cotton. “My kids have always had sensitive skin, as have I. Shopping was much easier when we were able to travel freely, but unfortunately, the current situation hasn’t allowed that but, the silver lining has been that I’ve been encouraged to move forward with MiliMilu,” says Morrison. All products are from a socially-responsible background, made from natural or recycled materials, without allergens so gentle on skin. To shop the collection visit, milimilu.com

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the week over the opening period, with limited daily early-bird offers. Tickets are currently priced from $320 for adults and $225 for children.

Paulo Pong, Deputy Chairman of Ocean Park, said, “We are excited that we are entering the final countdown towards the grand opening of Water World, and readying ourselves to welcome adventurers of all ages and walks of life to splash into adventure with us.” oceanpark.com.hk

The Hong Kong Sevens which was scheduled to take place in the first weekend of November has officially been cancelled by the Hong Kong Rugby Union who have cited safety and uncertainty around travel restrictions as the reason. In a statement the Union said, “This (decision) follows detailed conversations with World Rugby, participating unions and the Hong Kong government, and has been taken with the health and wellbeing of the rugby community and our fans as top priority.”

Water quality on the up The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has released the latest data related to water quality for 40 of Hong Kong’s beaches. The data is calculated from the results of tests that measure the level of E.coli in the water. In total, 17 beaches including Chung Hom Kok Beach, South Bay Beach, Discovery Bay and Turtle Cove were rated as Good (Grade 1). Those rated as Fair (Grade 2) included Anglers’ Beach, Deep Water Bay, Cheung Chau Tung Wan, Cafeteria Old Beach and Tai Po Lung Mei. The latest results show a positive trend, with two locations (Golden Beach and Tong Fuk Beach) being upgraded from Grade 2 to Grade 1. “The changes are generally within the normal range of fluctuation of the bacteriological water quality of the beaches,” said a spokesman from the EPD. epd.gov.hk

School news

UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS Tina Wu, on why admissions is an art and a science

New school on the block Last month Hong Kong welcomed Oxbridge School, a brand new British-style primary school with a curriculum rooted in the British National Curriculum catering to children aged five to 11. Among the many draws for prospective students and parents include small classes with a maximum of 15 students to a class, transparent tuition fees with

Sport for good Last month, Youth Diabetes Action (YDA) held its Summer Sport Carnival at Shrewsbury International School gymnasium in Tseung Kwan O. The event aimed to raise awareness of diabetes and funds to support children with diabetes in Hong Kong. More than 120 families took part in a wide range of fun

no debenture or capital levy and regular Mandarin language and culture lessons.

Annual school fees for the 2021/22 cohort will be $128,000 and prospective students and parents are currently welcome to arrange a tour of the bright, modern campus located just an eight-minute walk from Ho Man Tin MTR. oxbridgeschool.hk

games including a rope skipping challenge, dribbling competitions and parent-child relay races. Prizes were on offer as well as guest appearances from championship rope jumping athlete Sam Leung, movie star and former Hong Kong Taekwondo representative, Juju Chan Szeto and former Hong Kong swimming representative and Asian Games medallist, Kent Cheung. To find out more visit, yda.org.hk

As an senior admissions counselor, I have coached students to apply and get admitted to their dream schools. Success often comes down to two key factors: analyzing data as a scientist and crafting stories as an artist.

Admission to elite institutions is highly competitive and convoluted.

Counselors always put our data scientist hat on – we spend hours sifting through a massive amount of information, including grades, standardized test scores and admission rates; getting the pulse of the latest admission trends helps us best advise our students.

Yet, coaching students to craft their admissions stories is an art. Each student has his or her background, talent, heritage, strengths, and weaknesses; as counselors, our job is to help find the best angle that highlights our students’ uniqueness and fit for their dream schools.

I take pride in what I do – as a scientist and as an artist.

Tina Wu has over 10 years of experience in assisting students gain admission to top boarding schools and colleges in the U.S. Contact her via tina.wu@kaplan.com

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school photos Shrewsbury and SCMP Photography Exhibition

Mighty Oaks International Nursery and Kindergarten

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Summer snaps IMS Summer Fun Programme

Bimbo Concept Flower Crown Workshop

Collaboration between Bimbo Concept and Sprouts and Sparkles

Stamford American School Hong Kong

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me & my big idea

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my big idea

Walking the Amazon Dr Vicki Ooi looks ahead to the opening night of her adaption of explorer Ed Stafford’s incredible journey Ed’s journey,” says Ooi who has been Artistic Director of AFTEC since 2008 and prior to that, taught Theatre and English in the English Department of The University of Hong Kong (HKU) for almost 30 years.

Under Dr Ooi’s direction, AFTEC has developed a diverse array of programmes that tap into the deep power of the arts to support education and change in young people, encompassing theatre productions and theatre training as well as arts learning. “When children get involved in theatre they will inevitably improve their language abilities and learn life skills like commitment, teamwork and time management,” says Ooi. Of working on the production of Walking the Amazon, she says, “What inspired me most about Ed’s journey was that he was able to overcome not only the physical challenges he faced but also his own weaknesses, as a human being”.

As the opening night approaches, rehearsals are in full swing and Ooi is excited for the curtain to rise. “I’m looking forward to seeing that all the improvisations we worked on during rehearsals actually work on stage since we only get to work on the sets in the theatre one week before the performance,” she says.

Dr Vicki Ooi

There’s a new show in town. Award-winning bilingual learning theatre, The Absolutely Fabulous Theatre Connection (AFTEC), is set to open their acclaimed production of Walking the Amazon, part of their Classics for Juniors 2021 series, on October 4.

The production is based on Guinness World Record holder Ed Stafford’s real life journey across the Amazon on foot. Adapted from the British explorer’s book of the same name, Walking the Amazon depicts the innumerable challenges from wildlife and people Ed meets on his perilous journey across Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. Finally, Ed meets Cho, a guide and friend, and they stumble against reason, suffering starvation and sickness until they reach the end of the Amazon. This is the story of a man who motivates himself to keep to his commitment

despite physical and mental exhaustion for two and a half years.

AFTEC’s production will be the very first time the story is brought to life on stage in Hong Kong. Through the magic of physical theatre, co-directors Dr Vicki Ooi and Suen Chi Hung forgo a naturalistic set to pursue an alternative approach in which actors transform props and minimal set into foliage and landscapes to ignite the audience’s imagination and invite them to actively engage and partake in Ed’s journey. “We opted for a production concept that was so simple it depended only on the imagination of the director, the actors and their audience. This concept was inspired by Kneehigh theatre in the UK, which unfortunately closed earlier this year. I will be adding touches of their fun and playful approach to enhance the bleakness of

Walking the Amazon Public Show will run on 9 and 10 October 2021 at the Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre Theatre.

Performances will be mainly in English and tickets are priced from $160 and available at urbtix.hk

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cover story

New campus at NAIS Nord Anglia International School welcomes students to its new secondary campus in Kwun Tong. By Gemma Shaw There’s been much excitement in the air over the past few weeks at Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong (NAIS). Not least because it’s the beginning of a new school year, but also because there is a whole new secondary campus to explore in Kwun Tong. Whilst across the island, the primary campus at Lam Tin has been renovated and the community recently welcomed a new principal.

New secondary campus A few weeks ago, induction days at NAIS’s brand new secondary campus in Kwun Tong commenced. The impressive campus features specialist subject classrooms, a learning resource centre, a full-size sports hall, an indoor swimming pool and an impressive

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performance auditorium.

Principal Kenny Duncan, who joined NAIS last year, was there to greet students at the start of induction. “We have been searching for a suitable location for a secondary campus which has the right balance of accommodation, appropriate access to transport links, and with scope for potential development for a few years now. As you can imagine, securing real estate in one of the most populated and expensive cities in the world is not an easy task. Kwun Tong was by far the best location we came across. It has been a fascinating journey which is not over yet, we plan to fully complete the development of the site by the summer of 2023,” he added in the days leading up to the opening.

When it came to staffing the new campus,

NAIS prioritised secondary teachers who were passionate about their subjects and cared deeply about children and their education.

“They are people who keep up to speed with the latest educational research and can demonstrate a willingness and ability to innovate with their pedagogy. We are very lucky to have a core of secondary teachers who have been with us for several years and we are delighted to be joined this year by an extremely experienced and enthusiastic group to further strengthen the team,” says Nick Rickford, Head of Secondary.

“I would say that our teachers are most excited about the range of facilities that they have to explore with the students and the added flexibility to make learning varied and fun. There is so much scope for the specialist

cover story huge variety of activities such as debates, art competitions and poetry workshops,” says Naima Charlier, Director of Teaching and Learning.

Students also benefit from unique collaborations with the world famous Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, and Juilliard School of Performing Arts, the world’s leading conservatory for music, dance and drama.

Four campuses

Making music in the auditorium

teachers to develop their subjects within the new space. I’m also extremely excited about the performances, large and small, that our music and drama departments are planning (government restrictions permitting) in our drama suites as well as this impressive auditorium,” he adds.

NAIS took great pride in welcoming students back to its renovated Lam Tin primary campus at the beginning of this school year.

Originally designed to serve both primary and secondary aged students, as the school steadily expanded it was clear that additional new premises and accommodation were needed to support such rapid growth. As such, the brand new Kwun Tong campus serves as a dedicated secondary school while the renovated Lam Tin campus caters to primary students and two additional campuses in Sai Kung and Tai Tam cater to preschool students.

“Each campus has a unique feel and character but they all share the same ethos and culture developed in our founding campus at Lam Tin. At the heart of each campus are the students and each development is designed to make our learning environment more engaging, purposeful and effective,” says Charlier.

The improved Lam Tin campus offers a remodelled resource centre and library which

Tiered seating in the library

now includes tiered seating where students can work together, give presentations and enjoy listening to visiting authors, writers, poets and speakers. “Since it opened in 2014, we have renovated Lam Tin each year, adding new features such as The Maker Space, Space Lab, The Hub, a climbing wall, a fantastic 25-metre swimming pool and we’ve further developed both outdoor and indoor play spaces,” adds Rickford.

New principal The NAIS community also welcomed a new

Strength to strength Having first opened its doors to students in August 2014, it immediately became apparent that what NAIS brought to Hong Kong’s international education sector was quite unique and very desirable to a broad spectrum of parents and children. The school has quickly grown from 500 founding students to 1,400 children aged between three and 18 years old now learning across four fabulous campuses.

“Aside from the quality of teachers, our students benefit from the many opportunities that being a part of Nord Anglia Education brings. With a network of 73 schools around the world, students have the opportunity to interact with over 67,000 fellow Nord Anglia students globally. Through our online platform Global Campus, students can take part in a

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cover story

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cover story

principal at the end of last year. Principal Kenny Duncan brings with him eight years of experience as principal most recently at Kingsbridge College, a school ranked as outstanding in the UK and recognised as a leading hub of innovation and educational best practice. He has more than three decades of teaching experience.

“As a secondary school specialist, I’ve worked together with school teams and communities to raise educational standards and help to provide a route to top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The reputation of the Nord Anglia Education group as one of the world’s leading education organisations really attracted me from the start.

With my background in developing teaching of technology in schools, the collaboration with MIT across the group was exciting.”

Back to school smiles (underneath the masks)

Understandably, the past year for Duncan has been unlike any other, starting a role as principal in a virtual environment in the midst of a worldwide pandemic. He commends the NAIS Hong Kong community as one of the most welcoming he has experienced. “It was wonderful during my first fews weeks on campus to finally meet the students face to face and it very quickly felt as though I was where I belonged. I have been hugely supported by the experienced leadership team and teaching staff who are one of the best I have worked with in my 30 years,” he adds.

Looking ahead It’s clear that over the past five years, the school’s secondary phase has gone from strength to strength, growing in both size and reputation. NAIS is now a through-train school with its first IB students graduating this year. This summer saw the founding students complete their IBDP studies, achieving

exceptional outcomes in the process. Equally iGCSE students consistently performed above regional and global averages.

“Securing the secondary campus feels like the next step in maturing the school,” says Duncan. “It is exciting to be taking this step along with some of the founding students who joined us in primary school when we opened our doors back in 2014. Over the coming months, I look forward to working with the founding cohort of Kwun Tong students to fill the new campus buildings with life and learning. This is a space for the teachers to build their specialist subject areas and for the students to take ownership of this new campus,” he adds.

To find out more about Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong, or to arrange a tour visit nordangliaeducation.com

School report Established date: August 2014 Number of students: 1,400 Class size: Early Years 20 students per class. Primary and Secondary 24 students per class Curriculum: EYFS, English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSEs, IB Diploma Programme Fees 2021/2022: $129,000 (Nursery), $157,500 (Reception), $170,000 (Year 1-6), $190,190 (Year 7-11), $192,010 (Year 12-13) Capital Enrollment Fee: One time fee of $100,000 with no additional annual levies on top of tuition fees Address: 19 Yuet Wah Street, Kwun Tong Admissions Tel: 3958 1428

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education

Future thinking Hong Kong Academy supports students’ futures. By Nicole Slater

From humble beginnings on Stubbs Road, Hong Kong Academy (HKA) has grown beyond imagination into what is now one of the city’s most respected schools. Ask any student or parent at HKA, what sets them apart from other international schools in Hong Kong and their answer will be its 10 year strong alumni.

Since celebrating their first graduating class of seven pioneering students in 2012, the school’s alumni have grown from strength to strength. This is just one of the reasons many students stay in close contact with the community, no matter where in the world they go.

Meet the alumni Nikolai Smirnov graduated from HKA in

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2014 and originally went abroad to continue hisstudies, but after one semester he realised it wasn’t for him and returned to Hong

Kong. This led Smirnov to find a job at a Sai Kung-based restaurant run by two young entrepreneurs. He spent the next 18 months working for them learning the trade and at age 21, founded his restaurant Momentai.

“Each year at least one HKA graduate joins the Momentai workforce and I make sure to properly train them and make them feel part of the family, just like my teachers and previous employers did for me.”

After graduating in 2019, Valeria Riquelme took a gap year, learned Chinese and created the one-woman show So I Went.

She went on to establish her own production company, Tinta LTD and directed a short film, which will be released this year. “Noneof this would’ve been possible without the support of HKA and some key faculty, who

education

not only inspired me but actively provided guidance, especially during the production of So I Went, which was developed and performed at the school’s theatre.”

Although Hilary Lau started her journey at HKA in Grade 6, she thanks the school’s pre-graduation years. After graduating in 2016, she went on to study at the University of Glasgow, completing a five-year course in veterinary medicine and surgery. She is now beginning her first position at a small animal hospital in Portsmouth. “The community at HKA is international and diverse, which helped me adapt to moving across the world and settling into a new environment.”

A curriculum for everyone

time in school and prepare them for life after graduation. “We work closely with each student and their family to help them identify the institution and programme that best aligns with their post-secondary priorities.

This includes supporting students who need to defer post-secondary studies to complete national military service, want to take a gap year before transitioning to university or are interested in pursuing work placement or an apprenticeship,” says Joanna Crimmins, IB Diploma Coordinator at HKA. From Grade 9, students are introduced to a wide range of post-secondary options available around the world. “We stronglyencourage students to consider a range of factors when choosing universities

or post-secondary programmes. Location, size, degree offerings, and cost are all important considerations, and we support students in conducting thorough research as they prioritise these different factors,” says Crimmins.

The school is one of only seven threeprogramme IB World Schools in Hong Kong and is committed to supporting every student on their pathway to individual excellence.

They also offer a range of scholarship and financial aid options that support fee abatements of up to 90 percent for successful applicants. hkacademy.edu.hk

The close-knit community is not only due to the school’s positive and caring practices but also the support it provides to students leading up to the crucial years before the next chapter. The International Baccalaureate Diploma at HKA offers a wide range of IB DP courses, to provide students with the opportunity to study courses that best align with their post-secondary priorities.

The flexibility means that HKA can create bespoke programmes for students who want to specialise in languages, humanities, sciences, or arts. All HKA students also complete the Global Citizen Diploma (GCD), a programme that recognises the wide range of skills, attributes and passions that students bring to their academic and cocurricular pursuits.

Students are encouraged to find theirindividual pathways to excellence and the Grade 11 and 12 programmes are designed to support students during their

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out on the town

Out and about Gemma Shaw on what to see and where to be seen this month

All work and some play A Day in the Life of a Hotelier Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong has recently launched a new staycation package, ‘A Day in the Life of a Hotelier’ which features hotel credits, specially curated menus and a range of family-friendly perks. Guests can discover their children’s inner master chef through a sushi making class at Nadaman or a full Italian meal cooking experience at Angelini.

Parents can also savour their little ones’ unique culinary creations as part of the set dinner menu in addition to enjoying $1,000 dining credit, daily breakfast, a special candy box and complimentary entry to all in-house

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summer kids’ activities. The package is available from Sunday to Wednesday until 30 September and is priced from $4,200 for two nights. shangri-la.com

Some like it hot Chachawan family-style menu Chachawan, which serves up authentic Isaan cuisine, has been a firm local favourite in Hong Kong’s trendy Sheung Wan neighbourhood since opening in 2013. The eatery has recently launched a signature four-course sharing menu. Priced at $478 per person, the menu is available for dinner

out on the town The refurbished Grand Staircase on the ground floor has, too, been redefined for community performances. It is fitted with a motion sensor system and an LED projection wall to create an engaging and interactive experience for visitors.

Central Market is jointly managed and operated by the Urban Renewal Authority (URA) and Chinachem Group.

Mid-Autumn fun Waltz Down the Milky Way

and weekend lunches and features favourites such as Gai Yung, marinated grilled chicken thigh served with jhim jeaw and Pla Phao Glua, a salt-crusted whole sea bass stuffed with lemongrass, pandan, and lime leaves as well as monthly rotating Isaan specials by Head Chef Narisara Somboon. For dessert, indulge in mango sticky rice, or warm coconut rice dumplings served with salted coconut cream. chachawan.hk

and innovation; and to preserve the collective memory of old Hong Kong.

Set between Queen Victoria Street and Jubilee Street, the new design boasts a large central atrium equipped with projection and sound systems, making it an ideal venue for large-scale events and performances. The area comes with about 100 seats for the public and wireless network coverage, making it a key meeting and leisure space.

Located at K11 MUSEA, Harry’s Kitchen is a colourful, playful and inspiring interactive baking studio for students of all ages to learn how to create their own confectioneries and pastries under the guidance of professional chefs. The studio is currently celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival with a special collaboration with Build-A-Bear Workshop which includes a two-hour mooncake lesson and a teddy bear making workshop. During the baking session, students will learn how to make egg custard mooncakes under the guidance of a five-star hotel-trained pastry chef.

The mooncakes will be boxed in a special rocket-shaped gift box which can be adapted into a festive lantern. Children will also receive a voucher to visit BuildA-Bear Workshop and make their own stuffed animal, with the option to choose from iconic Mid-Autumn Festival characters including bunnies and teddy bears. The festive package is priced at $778 and runs until September 21. For more information visit, harryskitchenhk.com.

First peek Revitalised Central Market Marking a new milestone for the Grade 3 historic building, the revitalised Central Market celebrated its soft opening on August 23.

Phase one of the restoration and revitalisation work has reached completion, capturing and preserving many of the market’s historical elements. These details are integrated into the new open space floor plan, which provides over 100 leasable units for retail and F&B, green open space spanning 1,000 square metres and community spaces for art exhibitions and performances.

With a “Playground for All” concept, the new Central Market is set to become a vibrant community hotspot. It operates on two major principles: to foster community, cultural legacy

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big day out

Into the wilderness Nicole Slater goes island-hopping in Sai Kung

This secluded location is the perfect getaway from city life, offering just a few seafood restaurants and temples around the pier. Hop on a ferry from Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier (near University MTR station) or Wong Shek Pier, to reach this secluded spot.

Shelter Island

With the promise of (slightly) cooler temperatures and over 70 unique islands surrounding Sai Kung, getting off the grid has never been easier. This month, we round up some of the territory's best locations to explore. We’re talking stunning beaches, great hikes and even a few sea caves.

Kau Sai Chau As the sixth largest island in Hong Kong, Kau Sai Chau is home to the city’s only public golf course which consists of three 18hole courses and a clubhouse overlooking a picturesque landscape. Besides being a great place to practice your swing, the southern tip of the island is home to a small fishing hamlet and a prehistoric rock carving sits on the north-western coast. Ferries run every 20 minutes from Sai Kung Public Pier with a round trip costing $75.

Tap Mun Also referred to as Grass Island, Tap Mun offers a slice of the English countryside in the middle of Hong Kong, with a large open meadow overlooking the South China Sea.

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It may be small (0.55 km, to be exact), but this little island has quite a controversial background. First appearing on the map in 1866, Shelter Island became part of the Port Shelter Firing Range for the British military in 1950, before becoming a hiding den for drug lords in 1970. After 40 years of peace, the island was back in the headlines in 2011 when a mortar shell was discovered along the beach.

While Shelter Island hasn't seen much action

big day out in recent years, it is a popular diving site with a unique sea cave, just watch out for shells.

Sharp Island Located next to Sai Kung town, this picturesque island is home to two white sandy beaches and some of the cleanest water in Hong Kong, making it the perfect place to take a dip. As part of the Geopark, the island boasts volcanic rock formations that have been referred to as “pineapple bun rocks' due to their similar appearance to the iconic Hong Kong snack. Sampans and Kaitos are available from Sai Kung Public Ferry Pier and leave every 30 minutes until 5.30 pm. The 15-minute ride costs around $30 return (subject to demand).

Bluff island Dating back to the Jurassic Period, Bluff Island is made up of dramatic rock formations molded from underground magma 146 million years ago, these unique rocks have people comparing its resemblance to a turtle from above. The island is also home to one of Hong Kong’s biggest sea caves, Sha Tong Hau, making it a popular location for divers to explore. Hire a private boat or kayak from Sha Kiu Tau.

High Island Now connected to the Sai Kung Country Park via a road, High Island was once a thriving fishing village and is famous for its world-class hexagonal rock columns which stand up to 30 metres tall and date back 140 million years. Enjoy all this island has to offer by walking the High Island Geo Trail from East Dam to Biu Tsim Kok.

Top tip

Tung Lung Chau Located just off the tip of the Clearwater Bay Peninsula, Tung Lung Chau was once home to Emperor Duanzong of the Southern Song Dynasty. While the island is now uninhabited, it offers some of the best rock climbing spots in Hong Kong, including the Technical Wall and Sea Gully Wall. Catch the weekend Coral Sea Ferry Number 8 service from Sam Ka Tsuen to Tung Lung Chau.

The boat vendors at Sai Kung Public Pier are usually able to arrange a boat trip that suits your requirements. Stop by the pier to discuss your itinerary with them.

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education Principal’s office Meet Stephen Loggie, Principal at ESF Island School running of the school. The wider student council is maybe the most important group in the school as they really lead the school in terms of taking responsibility and leading on change.

What opportunity is there to interact with the local community?

Our students form deep relationships with the local community through student-led projects which focus on improving the world we live in. Currently students are involved in community projects which include operating a community library, running music classes with kindergarten children, holding afternoon tea with elderly residents and organising regular beach clean-ups.

What attracted you to ESF? The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is renowned around the world for its innovative strategies and exemplary results. Four years ago, the opportunity to be principal of Island School, ESF’s flagship school, came up. I jumped at the chance and relocated from Australia where I’ve held the position of principal at nine different schools over my 25-year career. It’s an exciting time at Island School and I’m proud to lead the community through its current redevelopment projects.

Why should parents choose Island School?

Island School’s extraordinary results prove testimony to the quality of education our students receive, however our approach that drives these results is unique. The secret of our success is that we create strong partnerships with students and their parents and focus on global competencies which not only maximise exam results but prepare our students for successful careers and fulfilling lives.

Can you tell us about the curriculum?

In Years 7 and 8 we offer the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) which nurtures

curiosity and active learning. In Years 9 through 11 we focus on IGCSE Cambridge exams and Island School’s Elements programme which includes over 40 courses, from law to photography. In Years 12 and 13 we offer both the IB Diploma Programme and IB Career Programme so students can choose the best curriculum for their needs. Students go on to exceptional universities across the world.

What values does Island School uphold?

At ESF, our vision is for every student to be the best that they can be. At Island School we focus on three core values - to pursue excellence, embrace responsibility and celebrate individuality. Our values are a beacon that guides every endeavour at the school and our culture is one of mutual accountability.

One of the unique features of our school is the long standing tradition that older students take responsibility for teaching younger students how to enact these values in their daily activities. Our older students take great pride in meeting this responsibility and it is key to the relaxed and supportive environment that you will notice when you walk through our doors.

How are students involved in decision-making?

Island School prioritises student voice and leadership. Every week I meet with the Head Students to hear their perspectives on the

What advice do you have for prospective parents?

Island School is all about finding your passion and developing a lifelong love of learning.

Beyond the basic entry requirements, Island School welcomes students who have an interest in something and are ambitious. Once a student joins, they will be encouraged to put themselves forward for new things. It is this attitude of putting yourself forward that has built the Island School community. I advise prospective parents to encourage their young person to find their passion and pursue it.

What’s in store for the coming year?

Since 2018 Island School has been based temporarily out of two campuses in the Sha Tin District. From May 2022, we will return to our brand new, state-of-the-art campus on Borrett Road in Mid Levels. In the coming months our community has lots to do to prepare for the move. It’s set to be an exciting time for us all and I can’t wait to welcome students, parents and staff to our new campus in the months ahead.

To find out more about ESF Island School visit island.edu.hk

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home

Take it outside Cheyelene Fontanilla on the best places to buy garden furniture and decor

Zzue Creation

Hedge

Zzue Creation represents over 50 overseas brands of outdoor products. Offerings at the showroom and online are handpicked by Zzue’s team and include daybeds, loungers, sofas, dining tables, hammocks, awning and rugs. zzuecreation.com

This Australian company offers advice from experienced landscapers who value quality as much as aesthetics. Offering collapsible planters, easy-to-install decking and more, Hedge is a great go-to when looking to upgrade your outdoor space. Most of the products are also either recyclable or made from recycled materials. hedge.net.au

Everything Under The Sun If you’re having a big alfresco get-together, Everything Under The Sun quite literally has everything you need. From sun lounges and sofas to barbecues and fire pits. For hot summer nights, they also stock misting fans, parasols, terrace covers and awnings. everythingunderthesun.com.hk

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Ikea Known for its simple, diverse and affordable designs, Ikea offers a wide range of outdoor furniture that can fit even the smallest of balconies with some colourful options to the liking of little one’s tastes too. ikea.com

Lift Lifestyle Offering an array of colourful outdoor furniture and cushions, hammocks and bean bags, Lift Lifestyle offers stylish products to personalise your space. They also supply decking, cordless outdoor lighting, bamboo fencing, storage units and shade sails. liftlifestyle.com

Establo Stocking over 15 European brands, you can find both classic and stylish European

home designer furniture and accessories for the balcony. Head to the showroom in Wong Chuk Hang to see the products in person. establo.hk

Home Essentials Stock up on pots of basil, chili, lemon and mint to create a little herb garden of your own and liven up your space with vibrant, modern rocking chairs and cute matching tables. homeessentials.com.hk

Where to buy plants Hay Fever Floral & Gifts Located in Prince Edward Flower Market, Hay Fever Floral & Gifts offers a range of freshly cut and potted plants to spruce up your home. The shop also has a quaint cafe overlooking the market.

Garden Plus Selling a wide range of plants, herbs and seeds, Garden Plus in Pui O, Lantau has everything you need to grow the garden of your dreams. gardenplus.com.hk Wah King Garden Established in 1983, this Sai Kung-based nursery and garden centre is the largest wholesaler of plants in the city. The familyrun business offers a range of plants and gardening equipment for those with large outdoor areas. wahking-garden.com

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marketplace

marketplace

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To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772.

marketplace

To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772.

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HOROSCOPE

Written in the stars Letao Wang, The Kingdom Healer shares his insights on what the stars hold for you this month AQUARIUS You will need to clean up and organise the different areas of your life. The planetary energies will encourage you to finish all pending tasks and plan the projects you want to carry out. After this period, you will work more efficiently and will have more time to enjoy yourself.

TAURUS Your intimate relationships will be very intense during this period, Taurus. The planetary atmosphere will help you to overcome certain taboos that you have been dragging along. You will notice that personal relationships will serve as inspiration for a deep transformation within yourself.

LEO Dedicate your time to sharing with your life partner, Leo. You will feel harmony and inner peace when relating to your loved ones. If you find yourself in an unfair situation, you will not hesitate to cooperate to help others overcome their problems.

SCORPIO The focus will be on your romantic relationships this time, Scorpio. Planetary energies can make you wary about the intentions of your romantic interest. Before you panic, keep in mind that this is a product of your insecurities. Try to recognize your fears before unnecessarily complaining to your partner.

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PISCES If you feel lost and are unsure about which path to take, this may be a product of the current planetary configuration. So don’t feel guilty about being uncertain. Use this time to close some chapters in your life. After this exercise, you’ll notice how things make sense again.

GEMINI Attention will be on your family matters, Gemini.

If there are any conflicts or misunderstandings, you can expect to work them out during this time. Communication will be fluid and will help to smooth things over and help harmony return to your home.

VIRGO This is not an appropriate time to undertake new projects, Virgo. The planetary configuration creates an uncertain environment, which can generate anxiety if you need to meet challenging goals. Therefore, don’t pressure yourself and trust your intuition rather than the advice of third parties.

SAGITTARIUS Social relationships during this period will bring you pleasant surprises, Sagittarius. You’ll have plenty of social events that will open the doors to profitable job opportunities. You may not have time to be alone during this time, but you will make the most of the new connections and friendships you build.

thehealingkingdom.com

ARIES Although you usually find it challenging to put yourself into the other person’s shoes, Aries, during this time, you will be understanding enough to respect opposing opinions. If you have any conflict, choose to listen to the other’s perspective. However, remember not to compromise the achievement of your goals out of complacency.

CANCER You will have the ideal opportunity to resume studies or academic projects that you had forgotten. The planetary configuration will promote curiosity, the desire to learn and rationality. Expect to meet new people and participate in stimulating conversations during this time.

LIBRA Unresolved situations from the past may resurface during this time. If there are conflicts in your current relationships that you have tried to avoid, they will become evident for you to confront. So, try to show patience, listen to what they have to say, and find a middle ground between the proposals presented.

CAPRICORN The astral configuration will promote the exchange of business ideas. Try to open yourself to what the new members of your work team have to say. Talking with the younger colleagues will give you a fresh and creative perspective to know what direction to follow.

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