The List School Guide 2014 by The List Magazine

Schools Guide 2 014

Contents 4

About the Guide Mind the Mindfulness Helping kids take control of their emotions

The Waldorf Way An alternative approach to education takes root

Food for Thought Eat well, learn better

Adventures in Debentures Financing those tuition fees

Who’s the Boss? How not to raise a tiny tyrant

All Aboard? Is boarding school the right option for your family?

Class Acts A select list of some of Hong Kong’s educational institutions

Preschools

Primary & Secondary Schools

English Schools Foundation

Private Independent Schools

Special Needs Schools

Who’s in charge? Publisher and General Manager

Director of Sales Gary Wong

Marketing Manager James Gannaban

Greg Crandall

Strategic Sales Director Jan Cheng

Marketing & Circulation Executive

Associate Advertising Director Joe Ng

Charmaine Mirandilla

Editor-in-Chief Zach Hines

Senior Sales Manager Joyce Wu

Contributors Lizzie Turner, Sarah Fung

Senior Advertising Manager Kent Ma

Finance Manager Karen Tsang

Advertising Managers

Assistant Finance Manager

Dominic Lucien Brettell,

Penny Cheng

Rita Ng

Senior Accountant Alex Fung

Assistant Advertising Manager

Accountant Winson Yip

Arena Choi

Assistant Accountants

Advertising Executives

Coa Wong, Edwin Lee

Production Manager Blackie Hui Art Director Pierre Pang Senior Graphic Designer Mike Hung Designer Ryan Chan Production Supervisor Kelly Cheung

Celia Wong, Harriette Cheung, Lamy Lam Advertising Coordinator Christine So

The List Schools Guide 2014 is published by HK Magazine Media Group Copyright ©2014 HK Magazine Media Group. The titles “The List,” “The List Schools Guide 2014” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of the The List Schools Guide 2014 are the property of HK Magazine Media Group. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Additional copies of the Guide are available for $50. The Guide may not be distributed without the express written consent of HK Magazine Media Group. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request.

Schools Guide 2014 3

About the Guide Welcome to The List’s very first

and emotional intelligence in order

Schools Guide! In this book, we’ve

to better cope with challenging

really gotten under the skin of what

situations.

parents of school-aged children in Hong Kong need to know. We’ve looked beyond the regular educational offerings to find out what other options exist out there for your kids. An alternative, more holistic option to a traditional academic education exists with the Waldorf method (p.12), which offers a looselystructured, no-tech-or-textbook approach to learning. Not only that, we find out how to prepare your older kids for boarding school (p.30).

Speaking of challenging situations, our “Who’s the Boss?” parenting story on p.24 teaches frazzled parents how to raise children in a consistent, respectful manner in order to avoid the “Kong Kids” phenomenon that’s all-too common in Hong Kong, where a combination of long working hours for mum and dad and an overreliance on domestic helpers turns children into tiny tyrants. You’ll also be thankful for our story on nutrition (p.18), which stresses the importance

School fees are frankly terrifying

of a nutrient-rich breakfast to help

these days, which is why we’ve

prep children for a day of learning.

spoken to a financial planning expert about how to finance your children’s education (p.22). Perhaps after a read of that sobering article, you’d be wise to put into practice the Mindfulness techniques we discuss on p.8. Mindfulness is a hot new topic in the world of education, in which children are taught better self-awareness

And of course, we wouldn’t be The List without a healthy bunch of school listings (p.34). We’ve selected a range of quality educational establishments as a starting point for researching the best schools in Hong Kong. There are so many schools in Hong Kong that we simply didn’t have the space to list them all, so be sure to look beyond this book for a broader understanding of the education scene here. Happy learning! The List

4 Schools Guide 2014

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Ensuring a Smooth Transition from Pre-School to Primary and Beyond At Woodland, both approaches cover the key

will be guided to use the spoken and written

learning areas:

language in a meaningful environment.

• Personal, Social and Emotional development

In addition, Woodland also offers extra-

• Communication

curricular Mandarin clubs (open to students

• Language and Literacy

and non-students) as well as Mandarin for

• Problem Solving

Grown Ups.

• Reasoning and Numeracy • Understanding of the World • Physical and Creative development To sum up, whether you choose a Traditional or a Montessori Pre-School, your child will receive the solid educational foundation essential for a successful transition into primary school.

How much Mandarin is taught at school? Woodland Pre-Schools consistently bring out the best in young children so that they can confidently enter Primary School, but more

Hong Kong’s extremely tough Primary School environment means that not everyone will immediately secure their place. Our flexible “Preparation for Primary” classes ensure that your child’s education is not disrupted, thus they can continue to develop without having to

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a fun and interesting way. A native Mandarin

What is the difference between Traditional and Montessori?

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Bilingual Stream

Curriculum levels and record their progress.

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Mandarin 50% of the time. Children have more

reports are compiled annually. Pre-School and

opportunities to listen, remember and use

Prep children will also go on educational field

phrases learnt that cover daily conversations,

trips and take part in our annual Sports Day.

Chinese festivals and theme-related

Our Prep class teachers take great effort to

vocabulary. Mandarin Circle Time is allocated

plan and deliver unique lessons according to

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the objectives for each subject. These include

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Literacy, Numeracy, Science, Geography,

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The emphasis is self-directed learning,

Pure Mandarin Stream

Physical Education, Citizenship and ICT.

supplemented by teachers directing each child

In the Pure Mandarin Stream, children are fully

towards learning opportunities when needed.

immersed as Mandarin is the only medium

Having children of different ages in the same

for all areas of learning. We provide a rich

classroom provides the younger ones with

language learning experience and practise the

role models for imitation, and gives older

four major language skills in class – listening,

children an opportunity to reinforce their own

speaking, reading and writing. Teaching is

knowledge by helping younger ones. We see

adjusted to each child’s individual learning

this often happening in our schools.

abilities and developmental needs, and they

In the Traditional classroom you will find children of similar ages being actively taught by a teacher who is directing activities. This is group-based learning with an emphasis on whole-class, structured, active teaching. Although children sometimes work alone, most of the time they work in groups. In the Montessori classroom, you’ll find children aged between 2 ½ and 6 years. Although children sometimes work in groups, most of the time they work alone or in pairs.

Mind the Mindfulness There’s a new educational technique that’s all the rage these days, and it promises to cut through the distractions of modern life and help your child focus on what’s important. Elizabeth Turner puts her mind to it.

indfulness is the new

education and psychology is

ability to be resilient under short-

buzzword in wellbeing, and

changing the way they deal with

term stresses like an exam, and other

it’s coming to classrooms

issues in the classroom.

research points to decreased anxiety,

in Hong Kong. For some students this might mean taking “the spaghetti test”; and no, it’s not the latest exam to check their nutritional knowledge but a relaxation technique to help them prepare for a difficult task.

UK-based, non-profit organization Mindfulness in Schools hosted a

improved social skills and better academic performance in children with learning difficulties.

course at Chinese International

The English Schools Foundation is

School, which has implemented a

implementing mindfulness as part of

positive psychology mantra across

a new wellbeing approach. Around

Students lie down and in turn relax

campus. Half of the participants were

330 children have participated and

or tense their face, arm, stomach and

teachers from the school; essential

the method is now being used across

leg muscles as they practice belly

if initiatives are to be successful,

campus at its Beacon Hill and Sha

breaths, the deep breathing technique

says Kevin Hawkins, international

Tin Junior Schools. It is piloting a

used in meditation.

programme manager of The

programme with Year 12 students at

Mindfulness in Schools Project.

Sha Tin College and there are plans to

Mindfulness is a brain-training

take it into more locations.

technique using breathing to bring

“Research shows more young

focus back to the moment when

people are being diagnosed with a

“Techniques increased children’s

stress or anxiety begins to spiral out

psychological condition. Neurological

ability to stay calm, recognize their

of control. The method has taken off

science now shows the effects of

emotions and focus, and many of

in places like the US and the UK, with

meditation can be seen in the brain.

the older students found they were

organizations as diverse as Google

This is exciting for mental health

sleeping better at night, sometimes

and the US military applying it to help

and it is trickling into the education

gaining an extra two hours,” says Tim

employees deal with the challenges

sector,” Hawkins says.

Conroy-Stocker, ESF’s educational

of their work.

A growing body of research is

psychologist and wellbeing advisor.

In the UK around 3,000 students have

backing statements like this. Journal

Singapore International School

undergone mindfulness training.

Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging,

and Canadian International School

British politicians are bandying the

cited findings after researchers

are also integrating mindfulness i

word in Parliament as a means to

scanned the brains of people before

nto the curriculum after successful

treat unemployment and depression,

and after mindfulness practice.

pilot programmes.

and Oxford University has taken

Images taken afterwards purportedly

matters into its psychiatry department

showed grey matter significantly

and set up a research center devoted

thicker in areas connected to

to the practice of mindfulness in

learning, memory and emotions.

mental health.

8 Schools Guide 2014

In October 2014, trainers from the

A new report from Carnegie Mellon

In Hong Kong, mindfulness is

University suggests that even brief

sweeping through schools where

practice, 25 minutes for three

a can-do, positive approach to

consecutive days, can affect the

By the end of this year the entire upper body of Canadian International students will have experienced it, and many of its lower school students. The school now runs daily drop-in sessions for children and teachers to practice mindfulness

Schools Guide 2014 9

before the day begins, as well as

Younger children are taught an

a chance to stop and focus on

other ongoing practices.

internal weather forecast to help

themselves. “Children enjoy the

them identify emotions such as

attention for their person instead of

sunny or rainy, to indicate happy or

their performance. To just be, instead

sad. A metaphoric frog is used to

of always having to do so many

illustrate sitting still and to practice

things. It equips children to recharge

belly breathing. When a child wants to

themselves for their busy lives.”

“We teach them breathing techniques and body awareness and they become aware of the sensations they are experiencing in their bodies. This helps students to learn to listen to the signals their bodies are giving them such as ‘I’m tired, I’m stressed, I need

speak, he or she holds a talking stone, a signal to other children to sit quietly.

What the students say:

a break’,” says Heather Sheridan, the

“They learned how to stop, focus

school’s upper counselor.

and be aware of the moment.

Herman, grade 11 student at

Then we learned how to deal with

Canadian International School,

unpleasant feelings, worry, insecurity

says the sessions helped him

and stress. But also how to deal

relax. “It was nice to stop thinking

with things they cannot change in

and forget about everything that

their lives,” says Andrea Edwards,

seems to be spiraling around

a preparatory teacher at Canadian

my head all the time, including

International School.

the things that are related to

“Students are under a lot of stress and it is important to empower them to be aware of how to effectively handle situations mindfully and making conscious choices. Mindfulness also encourages students to be aware of how their words and actions affect other people.” Sheridan said some students were surprised at the calming effects of the techniques, while others learned to recognize when they were feeling tense. Mindfulness training applies different techniques to account for the needs of older or younger children. 10 Schools Guide 2014

“When I was applying the skills they were taught I noticed how it really impacted my class. They were able to access strategies to calm themselves down and change the mood and climate of the classroom.”

school and from my own personal life.” Fellow student Helen says mindfulness helped her to relax during intensive times at school and found she could focus better on tasks. Another school peer named Tiffany says “It made me

Valerie Arpeau, a behavioral

overall more relaxed and actually

scientist at Happy Kids Hong Kong,

more energized during the day.”

says mindfulness gives children

it to a cult movement, or question

indicates more parents are willing

tend to grow from parental desire

the wisdom of keeping a set of

to try an alternative to the drill-and-

and rely on a community effort to

phonics from a five-year old. It openly

kill approach of more conventional

establish a support network to make

acknowledges students may be

methods.

it happen: finding investors to provide

slightly behind their conventionally educated peers by the time they enter secondary school, but says they catch up—indeed overtake them, within a year or two. According to a report by the Research Institute for Waldorf Education (2007), 94 percent of Waldorf graduates in North America went on to university. Globally though, Waldorf initiatives are expanding. It is apparently, one of the

The Waldorf Way

fastest growing educational systems with about 1,000 schools, according to the European Council for Steiner

Learn by doing; that’s the essence of the Waldorf philosophy. Elizabeth Turner reports on the alternative education method that’s making a splash overseas but still struggling to catch on in Hong Kong.

ver the last decade or so

setting. There is a holistic approach to

skipping rope, and a lesson

schools have raised the bar

education with a rhythm that follows

in fractions might see children

on academic success, but as

the seasons. Practical and artistic

slicing into a cake and dividing it

concern grows over the pressure on

subjects are given as much class time

between classmates.

students to achieve, some parents

as academics, and they are taught

are turning their back on accepted

through physical expression and a

conventions.

creative hands-on approach; the point

It’s a highly publicized fact that many of the chiefs at the epicenter of the

being that all of a child’s senses need educating, not just the mind.

of Waldorf graduates in North America went on to university.”

in and support trained teachers to

seventh grade; there are no textbooks

taken to it; its Waldorf school is now

help train others, but most of all to

to work from, instead children write

in its 14th year.

find premises where the location

is no homework and of course, no

philosophy, where technology in any

writing and arithmetic is delayed

technology. Enough presumably, to

form is forbidden in the classroom

until a child is seven years old,

repel a parent that has high hopes for

and frowned upon in the home.

and even then learning takes on a

a child’s academic success.

12 Schools Guide 2014

“94 percent

Thailand and Korea. Even Nepal has

there may be around 40 primary schools and as many as 500 kindergartens as the wealthier set

governance.

subsidize some Waldorf initiatives

Marks are only introduced around the

statistics are sketchy. It is estimated

materials, and running its board of

the UK and the US—partially or fully

together, a commitment to bring

In China it is booming, but typically

teachers, equipping the school with

to its stunted growth.

in Japan, The Philippines, Taiwan,

projects and record their experiences

premises, sourcing and training

Some countries—New Zealand,

of parents willing and able to work

their own as they work through

financial backing, locating or building

prohibitive costs are all contributing

There is now a strong presence

connection with nature. Reading,

while jumping back and forth over a

educational policy, lack of land and

school requires a dedicated group

Valley are subscribing to the Waldorf

see children reciting songs or poems

Asia. The first Waldorf school in Asia

and the government’s conservative

last two decades more have followed.

and what they’ve discovered. There

conventional schools in the Waldorf

US and the UK, and it is growing in

slow to embrace the Waldorf style,

“Establishing a primary or secondary

Early years emphasize a

physical dimension. Literacy might

Expansions are occurring in the

is gaining momentum but it has been

opened in Tokyo in 1987 and over the

global technology hub in Silicon

Technology isn’t the only antithesis of

Waldorf Education.

In Hong Kong a grassroots movement

is convenient and accessible to the majority as well as realistically

but generally they are private, nonprofit institutions and without the backing of a track record in Hong Kong, they are not widely appealing to investors here. “We have parents wanting a primary school and various groups have met over the years but not been around long enough to get it going, the main obstacle being the premises and of course the funding,” Lam says. The New Territories is flourishing with a handful of virtually one-man band initiatives by parents or individuals trying to establish a Waldorf presence: training to become teachers, establishing kindergartens or offering resources to help those efforts.

affordable,” says Julie Lam, co-

But a lack of trust in its methodology

founder and education coordinator at

is also slowing development. A group

Highgate House School.

of parents are trying to get a primary school going but have been waiting

seek a different education for their

The kindergarten was formally

children. While questions are being

established in 2001 and the first

The Waldorf philosophy certainly

raised about a lack of regulation

Waldorf presence in Hong Kong but

has its critics; those who compare

for some of those initiatives, the

despite attempts, a primary school

People also lean towards what they

expansion in China and elsewhere

has yet to follow. Waldorf schools

know. “People seek security and the

over a year for the government to approve its application.

Schools Guide 2014 13

wellbeing of their families. They tend

could be achieved in Hong Kong it

to conform and do not believe that

would go a long way to strengthen

we can make change on our own.

the credibility of the education in the

Parents who are attracted to Waldorf

years beyond kindergarten.”

either move overseas or compromise with the local system. Only recently has homeschooling become a courageous choice for some families,” says Sinmei Chan, founder of Tai Po initiative, HeartSource. Cultural and economic differences between initiatives have hindered a collaborative effort, in a move that goes against the grain of the open, holistic approach Waldorf likes to promote and potentially prohibiting its development as much as red tape and practical issues. So, does Waldorf have a future in Hong Kong? Lam, who also teaches trainee Waldorf teachers in the UK, says Hong Kong needs to establish government-recognized training courses like those in countries where it has a strong presence. “If this 14 Schools Guide 2014

Waldorf: what is it? The Waldorf Method was established by Austrian

Systematic organized primary

philosopher Rudolf Steiner in

teacher training is needed to take

1919. The curriculum is designed

the momentum further to ensure a

to respond to the phases of a

consistent supply of teachers from

child’s development to build a

the local community, and Waldorf

foundation for later academic

needs to be promoted on a wider

learning. Focus is on experiencing

scale, says Chan.

and re-enacting learning rather

“We need to bridge conversation with

than memorizing.

the government and with overseas

Imagination is cultivated in

mentors and bring world-class

early years through play,

speakers to Hong Kong by organizing

storytelling, song and crafts,

international conferences, but we

and forms a child’s introduction

need human resources,” she says.

to literacy and arithmetic. As

“The general public tends to

children move up through

have confidence in organized

primary and secondary education

institutions… so this requires a lot of

academic subjects are discovered

confidence and courage from parents.

using the same principles of

A genuine understanding of Waldorf

creativity, movement, music and

education is necessary in order to

arts, with depth and intellectual

strengthen their belief.”

discussion increasing with age.

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Food for Thought The first step to learning is to eat right. It has far more of an impact on your young child’s educational development than you might think. By Elizabeth Turner

1. How common is the problem of poor nutrition in children in Hong Kong?

good nutrients such as vitamins and minerals

This is a fairly common problem and two-fold.

cofactors in so many reactions in the body for

Firstly, a lot of children are not a big fan of vegetables and fruit and eat a diet too focused

from fruits and vegetables are needed as energy, detoxification, mood and so on. And too much sugar causes brain inflammation. Studies from changing foods in prisons have shown

oast, cereal, a pineapple bun

began popping up in inner cities

in salmon or walnuts for example, are

on grains and protein. Many also eat too many

or congee. Any of these might

where many children, often from

said to improve memory and learning.

white products, for example pasta, bread and

be a typical breakfast for the

low-income families were arriving at

Children consuming higher levels of

rice, and the ever-present overconsumption

average child in Hong Kong. But

school without breakfast; resulting

these performed better in tasks such

of sugar. So they are lacking healthy nutrients.

according to experts we need to

in disruptive behaviour. Now schools

as reading and spelling, and showed

Secondly, often the quality of food we get in Hong

pay more attention to the nutritional

say, that has been reversed.

fewer behavioural problems; a

Kong is not of the best standards. The fruit and

quality of the food we feed our

Food intake affects energy levels,

deficiency is thought to contribute to

vegetables are mostly imported, and nutrient

3. What are the other effects of poor nutrition on the body?

kids. And it might just give them an

stamina, mood, memory and

issues like attention-deficit disorder.

content decreases with travel. Studies have

The lack of nutrition can contribute to low immunity, allergic conditions and behavioral problems, among other things.

academic punch.

emotional wellbeing and evidence

Dr. Benita Perch is a naturopath

shown non-organic fruit and vegetables have less

School breakfast clubs in the UK

suggests adequate nutrition is

physician at Integrated Medicine

nutrients than their organic counterparts. A lot

and the US are playing a significant

essential for children to achieve their

Institute in Hong Kong, with a

of fish is quite toxic nowadays, for example tuna

role in prepping children for the day

full academic potential.

Bachelor of Science degree in

is high in mercury and farmed salmon is high in

ahead by feeding them a nutritional

Clinical studies document the link

nutrition from Kings College London.

PCB’s (polychlorinated biphenyls, a man-made

first meal of the day, something

between nutritional effects on brain

She shares her views on the nutrition

chemical). It is preferable to eat organic dairy free

many of them would go without

activity and cognitive behaviour.

issue in Hong Kong.

of hormones and antibiotics—this applies to eggs

if the clubs didn’t exist. The clubs

Omega-3 fatty acids like those found

and chicken too. Meat ideally should be grass-fed.

2. What is the correlation between poor nutrition and a child’s behaviour?

positive outcomes for behavior, and studies also show by changing school lunches there is a positive impact.

4. What are the basics children should be eating on a daily basis to get the nutrients their bodies need? Breakfast is very important: it should be high in complex carbohydrates, good fats and protein, such as oatmeal with peanut butter mixed in, eggs and rye toast with avocado, or whole grain cereal (low or no sugar) with milk.

Poor nutrition is often directly correlated with poor concentration, aggression, hyperactive behavior and anxiety issues. Lack of 18 Schools Guide 2014

Schools Guide 2014 19

Quick Fixes

Feeding HK’s Kids

Dr. Perch’s tips to pack a nutritional diet.

The income gap between the

•

Two fruits a day; berries are great.

rich and the poor in Hong Kong is

•

Vegetables: two cups a day and a variety of color and types; and remember corn is not a vegetable but a starch.

•

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta.

•

Animal protein or vegetable protein in all meals helps to stabilize blood sugar. This helps with concentration. Vegetable options include nuts and seeds, legumes, organic tofu and soy.

•

Non-toxic fish like sardines, wild Alaskan salmon and anchovies which are high in omega-3 to help with concentration; two to three servings a week. Pacific cod, rather than Atlantic cod and halibut are healthy options too.

•

rising, according to government statistics. It is among the highest of any developed economy. According to non-profit organization Feeding Hong Kong, one in four children go without the basic three meals a day and to help address the imbalance it has setup the city’s own breakfast club. Last year, Feeding HK began delivering over 320 breakfasts to students across three secondary

Oils: use olive oil when cooking over a low heat; and coconut oil,

schools and there are plans—and

butter or ghee over a high heat.

a need—to expand its reach.

•

Water or a little diluted juice. Juice is very high in sugar.

Feeding Hong Kong is also

•

Minimize or remove sugar completely including agave, coconut

partnering with local chefs to run

sugar and so on. A little honey or maple syrup is okay, but only in

cooking and nutrition classes for

small amounts.

those in need, creating healthy

Remove fried foods and fast food except for special occasions,

recipes that cost HK$10.

•

but even then it is not really food!

20 Schools Guide 2014

Financial Planning

“Any financial advisor will tell you

Faced with those figures, if there is

to start an education savings plan before you’ve even conceived”

one piece of advice the less financially savvy parent might regret ignoring, is to start saving early. Any financial adviser will tell you to start an

what their goals are,” Borchert says.

School fees for Hong Kong Academy

education savings plan before you’ve

This also depends on what kind of

include an annual scholarship levy,

even conceived. The advantage being,

education and school parents choose,

which funds a scholarship covering

investing regularly from the point

their personal preferences about risk,

at least 50 per cent of costs.

when a child is born, or preferably

their flexibility or not in what they are

before can give you at least five years

comfortable with and the bottom line,

until they start primary school.

what parents can afford.

“The cost is much more manageable and the later you start the more funds

Scholarships

Protection Plan What’s the relevance of this? You may ask. Protection insurance is a combination of life, critical illness

will be needed in a shorter span of

Some private schools offer

and income protection and it is just

time. Ideally one should start as soon

scholarships to supplement the cost

as important as financial planning

as one begins to think about having a

of tuition fees. Funding is offered on

but frequently overlooked by parents,

Adventures in Debentures

family,” Borchert says.

a merit-and-needs basis for students

Borchert says. “What happens if

who can show a particular talent

the main breadwinner is no longer

in an academic field or a particular

able to work or passes away? Does

Get a grip on financing your child’s education early, writes Elizabeth Turner.

build up value, while a shorter time

talent for sports, music, art or drama,

education stop for the children there

and usually only once a child enters

and then?”

A longer term investment also means you can take a higher risk portfolio to span means a lower risk investment to ensure there are enough funds

rivate schools in Hong Kong

be domiciled for three years before

of the top end international schools,

are notoriously difficult to

starting university to quality for local

you’re looking at around HK$169,680,

when the bills start rolling in.

get into and once a place is

student rates, and packing a child off

for one years’ tuition fees. Secondary

Regardless of when you start financial

to boarding school does not qualify.

school tuition fees currently start at

planning the ways to do it remain the

around HK$94,000 per year for the

same, Borchert says.

secured, the reality of tuition fees can put a dent in even the healthiest of bank balances.

So, unless you intend to favor one child for the best school you can

least expensive option, or in excess of HK$194,000 for the most expensive.

Things that should not change are to

School fees have risen sharply in

afford or sell the family heirlooms,

the last decade or so and the issue

financial planning for education can

Multiply that by the number of years

in where funds are placed, and the

isn’t particular to Hong Kong. In

be a sound investment for their future.

a child is at school, the number of

peace of mind that financial planning

children you need to school and

brings, says Borchert.

the last 20 years there has been a worldwide trend for education costs

The costs

maintain clarity of goals, diversification

inflation, and you might need to call for the smelling salts.

Which plan?

Exactly how expensive depends on

And did we mention the peripheral

That’s a bit like asking, how long is

the school you choose. The bill today

costs? School uniform, textbooks,

a piece of string? There are many

for putting a child through one year

technology fees, school bus, lunch,

ways to financially plan for education

of primary schooling can easily cost

extracurricular activities and field

and no one-fits-all solution. “Choice

There is also a trend for rising

HK$72,000, and that’s only if you

trips, at least. Every school has them,

depends on each family’s situation

student debts, reduced grants and

choose the least expensive option

and they are often compulsory. Costs

such as domicile status, nationality,

subsidies and stricter rules to qualify

and exclude additional costs such

vary, but you can estimate adding

needs such as how portable they

for cheaper tuition fees overseas. In

as application fees, capital levy and

at least HK$112, 950 to your annual

need the product to be if they will

the UK for example, citizens need to

debentures. If you’re aiming for one

school bill.

be moving countries again and

to rise faster than inflation and this is expected to continue for some time, according to professional financial adviser, Janet Borchert (www. janetborchert.pro).

22 Schools Guide 2014

Private education is expensive.

secondary school.

Insurance protection is a means to

Scholarships usually cover a

ensure that education fees and the

percentage of tuition fees but

cost of living can be sustained should

sometimes the full fee or more. These

the main source of income suddenly

can sometimes be supplemented

disappear, at least until children

by bursary funding, depending

are 18 years old or ideally, have

on the school.

completed university.

Private institutions offering

Costs will vary according to individual

scholarships include Harrow

circumstances and variables including

International School Hong Kong, with

medical history, age, the school and

a 10 percent discount on academic

type of insurance plan.

scholarships as well as scholarships for sports, music, art and drama.

A protection plan can be viewed as another savings plan. A monthly or

Yew Chung International School

annual amount can be put away for

offers full and partial scholarships

a chosen number of years and earn

for up to two years, for overall

around 3 percent interest annually. So

achievement, and for art, music,

if you’re still working when the babes

and sports. Canadian International

graduate from university, there could

School provides various scholarships

be a nice bundle in the bank for a

including a merit-based one for entry

hard-earned holiday.

to grade 11 covering tuition fees, capital levies and more, for two years. Schools Guide 2014 23

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Who’s the Boss? Don’t raise a little tyrant. A new body of research shows us how to make sure your child is well-adjusted, writes Elizabeth Turner

f you listen to the experts, modern-

Kong suggests “monster” parents

day parenting is in trouble. We are,

here are turning out a generation of

apparently, a generation of too-busy

spoiled children with an inflated ego.

parents who fear our children and

The study, by associate professor

give in to their every demand, turning

Annis Fung at the department of

out a batch of brats who value their

applied social studies, suggests Hong

own self-worth above all else.

Kong children rate themselves more

Technically of course, this is a

highly than their peers in the west.

sweeping generalization and many

Children from affluent families seem

parents find a way to juggle the

to have higher levels of narcissism

demands of society and raise

than those from low-income families,

emotionally balanced children.

“as they tend to be over-served at

But a study by City University of Hong 24 Schools Guide 2014

home by maids, and they perceive themselves to be dominant in their

social group,” the report said. In the report, Professor Fung said parents should focus more on developing their children’s ethics and empathy so they will learn to appreciate and respect others, and understand their needs and feelings. Child-rearing has become a science and many parents feel confused about the information available on how to raise their children, says Linda Heaney, who is principal of David Exodus Kindergarten

Trinity’s Aim The objective, “For your Children, Think the Future” outlines the priority at Trinity International Language. The basic philosophy is to develop children’s language skills from an early age and incorporate language into everyday life. A major benefit to enrolling at Trinity is the tutor to student ratio of 1:5. This not only means greater interaction between teachers and students, but also allows the tutor to ensure each child is getting the attention needed to realize their potential from an early age.

The Oxford Reading Tree playgroup Designed for children between the ages of 10 months and three years, the Oxford Reading Tree playgroup was developed based on the highly-regarded Oxford Reading Tree (ORT) story series from the UK. Trinity is the only learning center that offers the playgroup in

Hong Kong’s southern district, while it also provides early childhood programs in both Spanish and French. The ORT prepares students with the foundational reading and social skills needed for entry into good quality kindergartens. The three key objectives are to help a child develop an interest in reading; to set a foundation in language; and to offer additional hands-on activities and sensory experiences linked to the relative themes covered. The playgroup is based on the vision of allowing children to learn languages through having fun – something that is key to Trinity’s teaching mission. Storytelling, role plays and group activities are all incorporated into lessons, with the aim of students becoming more comfortable and confident with a language. Other activities involved in the ORT program are arts and crafts, singing and dancing, concept recognition and gross and fine motoring skills training, which keeps to Trinity’s goal of ensuring lessons are “fun and purposeful”. After completing the program, each student will receive an assessment report and a certificate issued by the Oxford University Press.

even a third language as early as possible is extremely beneficial, particularly if parents want to increase their children’s competitiveness in kindergarten enrollment. Children grasp languages best from an early age, so Trinity hopes that through its interactive teaching strategies, languages can be merged into their lives to make the learning process much easier. DELE (Diplomas of Spanish as a Foreign Language), Junior DELF (Diplomas of French as a Foreign Language) and courses are available to students from the age of three, again underlining the importance the center puts on increasing the students’ confidence in test taking and celebrating their achievements. The courses are recognized by the Spanish and French ministries of education respectively.

What sets Trinity International Language apart from the rest?

French and Spanish courses

There are a number of obvious benefits to Trinity International Language, not least the small class sizes and emphasis on fun and active learning. The center stresses on good communication and a very personal relationship between parents and teachers. Ultimately, what is most important to Trinity is that students engage in happy learning with confidence.

Trinity International Language believes that exposing young children to a second and

T: 852 2114 2814 E: enquiry@trinitylanguage.com

and has 35 years’ experience working

‘head’ of the household… quite often

situations, however frustrating, also

with pre-school children.

in an attempt to fill a void within the

comes with a valuable life lesson.

“Rather than regard to the importance

home,” Schott says.

“Those instances are also some

of learning through play and social

Parents feel the pressure from jobs

of the most important. How

and emotional development, too

that require they work harder, for

you deal with stress and handle

much focus has been put on training

longer hours and produce better

yourself in difficult situations will

in the hope of gaining academic

results, and schools put their

influence how your children handle

achievement,” Heaney says.

own demands on parents’ time

similar circumstances. Patience,

with meetings, events and other

understanding, tolerance and

community commitments. “With

forgiveness are key attributes for

parents under intense pressure and

dealing with day-to-day life. By

the drive to succeed, they naturally

displaying these characteristics

have higher expectations for their

you are directly teaching your child

Fear of upsetting a child can override intuition, and personal parenting preferences and cultural references also influence how children are raised.

children. With these values in mind

what you consider appropriate

“Many parents feel fear about

and this attitude being displayed,

behaviour,” Schott says.

disciplining their child and are afraid

then it’s only natural that children will

to use their natural instincts. They do

strive to be the best and sometimes

not realize that constantly pleasing

misinterpret that as being the boss in

Taking back control

and giving in to a child is not going to

their everyday lives,” Schott says.

• Lead by example. Children

So, how do we switch the balance

mimic what they see and hear.

help their child live a balanced life.”

Exercise respect, body language

Shifts in society have put more

back to parents being in charge

power in the hands of children.

and children viewing adulthood as

Each family has its own dynamics

something desirable in their future?

but finances, work, parenting and

• Go back to basics and follow

An equal divide between work and

other responsibilities all have a role

your instinct. Demonstrate love,

family life, or to utter an overused

in how they are played out behind

discipline, boundaries and respect

phrase, the work-life balance. Schott

the front door.

for a child.

admits it can be difficult to put into

The role reversal issue is especially

practice but says it keeps parents

relevant to Hong Kong where an army

involved and connected with their

of helpers, nannies and additional

children. It can also demonstrate

household staff can increase

how to prioritize day-to-day demands

• Resist the temptation to

children’s awareness of social

and help structure a child’s core

succumb to guilt or give in to

divides and cultural differences, says

values. “Children mimic the behaviour

demands to please.

Rebecca Schott, a nanny on the books

that is set out in front of them so it

• Choose your battles. Decide

at placement agency, The Nanny

is vital adults set a solid foundation,”

Experts. “Children are left

Schott says.

more to their own devices when

Displaying empathy and compassion

hour, or goes to bed dressed

trying to establish a balance of

are good examples of how children

as a superhero.

equality within the home. With the

discover appropriate language to use

absence of positive, responsible,

• Set out a weekly family schedule

as well as a model for their morals.

parental continuity, children take

to ensure there is dedicated

Keeping a cool head in challenging

family, adult and personal time.

it upon themselves to become the 26 Schools Guide 2014

and tone of voice.

• Be consistent. Ensure every

adult in the household enforces the boundaries.

if it’s more important that a child goes to bed at a reasonable

PIONEERS OF THE STORYTELLING IMAGE

S A M T S I R H MERRY C ! R A E Y W E & HAPPY N

Extreme Parenting Glossary Don’t know your helicopter from your snowplow? Here’s The

after posting a video of his thenfour-year-old, He Yide, undertaking a grueling exercise regime near-

their child’s education. Free-Range Parenting

naked in the snow. Many online

An antidote to over-involved

commentators accused him of child

parenting techniques, free-range

abuse. The now-six-year-old went

parents allow their children a high

onto complete a solo flight over

degree of freedom to explore the

Tiger Mom

Beijing Wildlife Park back in August.

world on their own, with as little

This term rose to fame with the

Snowplow Parents

List’s quick guide to some of the more extreme parenting styles out there today.

publication of the book “Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother,” in which novelist Amy Chua details

A snowplow parent is one who clears a path for their child, whether

parental supervision as is safe, in order to nurture self-reliance.

it’s at school or for their grown-up

A Hong Kong phenomenon first

children setting out in their careers.

noted in a book “Kong Kids:

They use any means possible

The Nightmares for Parents and

to remove obstacles that may

Teachers” published by Ming Pao

hinder their child’s success, but

in 2009. It notes that many middle-

at the ultimate detriment of their

class children born in Hong Kong

Eagle Dad

kid’s ability to deal with their own

after 1990 are spoiled by parents

The self-proclaimed “Eagle Dad”

setbacks.

and have all their needs taken

is He Liesheng, a Chinese father

Helicopter Parents

how her Asian-style extreme parenting technique—including hours of piano practice and strict rules governing education—raised high-achieving daughters.

of a young son, who was born premature. He pushes his child to undertake extreme challenges in order to make him stronger. He first found notoriety on the internet

28 Schools Guide 2014

care of by domestic helpers, and as a result they lack self-care and

A parent who continually hovers

problem-solving skills, leading to

over their child, micromanaging

unhappy, narcissistic and helpless

every aspect of their life. This

young people.

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the concept and keen to go. On the other hand, I have met parents with 14 or 15-year olds who have only recently started discussing boarding as on option and the child is like a rabbit in the headlights. This anxiety is often difficult to hide in interviews and will worry most schools who want their new pupils to arrive in the best possible mindset in order to settle quickly and start embracing all the school has to offer. Many senior school heads have told us they often prefer their international students to have done a year or two at a UK prep school first so the transition to senior school is not so abrupt. Prep school can be a wonderful prelude for senior school life as children start to gather an understanding of boarding and being away from home in a smaller

All Aboard?

environment at a more gradual pace.

3. Are there signs that can signal if a certain individual child is capable of coping with boarding school? I do believe a large part of the battle in children taking well to boarding is allowing the child to believe they have chosen to go rather than sent by their parents without consultation. If it is the latter, then the moment things are tricky their world falls apart; if they have chosen to go they are likely to make more effort to get through the difficult moments. Additionally, the children I have met who have been away on summer camps and

“Children

who have been talking about the possibility for a while with their family are already upbeat about the concept and keen to go.”

extended school trips—and loved it— are often ready for more adventures along the same lines. Those less familiar with the concept of spending time away from parents can find the initial stages very strange indeed.

Elizabeth Turner asks when is the right time to enroll your child in boarding school.

any Hong Kong students study overseas and according to the

government’s most recent census and statistics survey (2011), 4.5 per

1. At what age do families in Hong Kong consider sending a child to boarding school? The UK system welcomes most children at Years 9 and 12, and some

to a top secondary school. There is also more interest for day schools as mothers may move to accompany children for schooling.

Parents are attracted by the

seen parents here who are going

opportunity for a school experience

for Year 10 entry, and often with a

beyond academic achievement

child who will be eligible for Year 11

and possibly a smoother route to

by that time. This is a much trickier

2. Is there an optimum age from a psychological and academic point of view to send a child to boarding school overseas?

a university in the same country,

point to try to find a place as the

says Amelia Kendall, a senior UK

The main criteria for this can actually

most competitive schools tend not to

consultant at Arch Education. The

tend to be the age at which the

have any space in this year group. We

prestige of a school, and the culture

concept starts to be introduced to the

have also seen an increasing number

and tradition of another country can

child, and less the age at which they

of students enquiring for early prep

also appeal. She tells us how families

finally go. Children I meet who have

boarding school, which means

approach the matter.

been talking about the possibility

sending children over as early as

for a while with their family and

seven or eight years. This is in order

have seen other people they know

to maximize their chances for entry

head off are already upbeat about

cent of them were 15 years or under.

30 Schools Guide 2014

schools for Year 7 too but I have

Schools Guide 2014 31

element of all activities in a boarding

comfort zone.

school and this environment provided

boarder Geoffrey Ng talks about his

2. How did boarding school

experience of boarding school. He

correlate with what you

now helps the British Council promote

thought it would be like?

UK education. (Many thanks to the

At such a young age, I didn’t have

4. Academics aside, how do you think boarding school helped you?

school would be like; I just went with

You are forced to be independent

1. What was your first

it. I think by having no expectations it

quickly. Everything has a schedule.

thought when the idea of

makes things easier.

Punctuality becomes automatic and

boarding school was raised?

3. Academically, how do

Given my age at the time, it would

you think boarding school

be natural to have the feeling of

helped you?

excitement of living away from

It gave me better interaction with

These skills I developed have enabled

teachers that you don’t otherwise

me to embark on my career and I use

have in a day school and you can gain

them day-to-day in the workplace.

your parents and experience an undiscovered territory but little did I realize the challenges I would face. But I am adventurous and I relished

Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is an issue most children encounter at some point, and something the staff at Safari Kid

you develop self-discipline. Living with diverse students expanded my view of the world and developed my skills in building long term relationships.

more academically through these interactions. Learning is a central

talk about the benefits. Discuss the

Children are possessive about their

changes it will mean to their current

belongings and they should be able to

routine, and make it clear that the

walk into their space as they left it.

family will still keep its structure.

3. How can families maintain

International tackle on a regular basis.

2. How can parents support a

a healthy connection when a

School principal Karen Kelly says

child who may be struggling to

child is at boarding school?

ways to deal with it remain the same

settle into boarding school?

regardless of a child’s age or the

Be consistent in support and give

whatever the age and this is a lot

positive praise for what they are

easier with modern technology.

1. What can a family do to

doing. Seek support from the school

Establish a regular structure for

prepare for the separation

and if necessary arrange additional

contact and stick to it. Parents

between parents and a child

telephone calls until they settle.

can also make photograph albums

heading off to boarding school?

Encourage the child to join a club

or record audio albums and send

with their interests to help them

them periodically.

circumstances.

Empower them with information. Share conversations about it and

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the interview.)

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my teamwork skills.

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Former UK secondary school

the opportunity to step outside my

r’

The Boarder’s View

he el c

Class Acts We’ve put together a curated list of some of Hong Kong’s best-known schools, as a starting point for researching Hong Kong’s many excellent education options. Note: These listings are for reference only. Please be sure to check with the schools to verify the latest information.

Preschools

Tel: 2633 7800 Email: thinkkg_mos@think.edu.hk Mei Foo: The Podium, Nob Hill, 8 King Lai Path Tel: 2727 7585 Email: thinkkg_mf@think.edu.hk Website: www.think.edu.hk Year groups: age 2-6 Year founded: 1994 Curriculum: Bilingual education for local children, English-only pre-school for international children

Tutor Time International Nursery & Kindergarten

Tutor Time International Nursery

Preschools Multiple Locations

Anfield International Kindergarten Kowloon Tong: 5 Cumberland Road Tel: 2794 3668 Email: admin@anfield.com.hk Hung Hom: L2, Phase 1, Laguna Verde, 8 Laguna Verde Avenue Tel: 2766 3882 Email: admin-lv@anfield.edu.hk Website: www.anfield.com.hk Primary Section: 2 Lung Pak Street, Tai Wai, Sha Tin Tel: 2692 8823 Email: office@anfield.edu.hk Year groups: K1-3, P1-6 Year founded: 1999 Curriculum: British early foundation stage, key stage 1 and 2 adapted to local setting Medium: English and Putonghua Extra-curricular activities: English and Putonghua

36 Schools Guide 2014

Deborah Educational Institute 25 Locations in Hong Kong and on the mainland Tseung Kwan O Tel: 2217 7933 Hung Hom Tel: 2274 1669 Tin Shui Wai Tel: 2447 2669 Tai Po Tel: 2665 4333 Ma On Shan Tel: 2642 6033 Email: deborahi@netvigator.com Website: www.deborah-intl.edu.hk Year groups: Pre-School–Kindergarten Year founded: 1978 Medium: Cantonese, English, Putonghua Special program: Special software to support syllabus Extra-curricular activities: Ballet, London College of Music Examinations (LCM), Abacus courses, art

Parkview International Pre-School Hong Kong: Tower 18 Parkview, 88 Tai Tam Reservoir Road, Hong Kong Tel: 2812 6023 Email: pipsinfo@pips.edu.hk

West Kowloon: Podium Level, Kowloon Station 1 Austin Road Tel: 2812 6801 Email: pipsinfo-kln@pips.edu.hk Website: www.pips.edu.hk Year groups: 1-6 Number of students: 685 Year founded: 1989 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program (PYP) Medium: Hong Kong Campus–English and Putonghua; West Kowloon Campus–bilingual class in English and Putonghua, trilingual class in English, Cantonese, and Putonghua Extra-Curricular Activites: Hong Kong Campus–Putonghua, drama, sport, English, creative art, phonics, ballet, mathematics, piano; West Kowloon Campus–English Enhancement, Putonghua Wonderland, music and movement, ballet, yoga, soccer, Creative Artists, Little Chefs, and Saturday playgroup

Sunshine House International Preschools Chi Fu: G/F, Block 1, Fu Lai Yuen, Chi Fu Fa Yuen, 1 Chi Fu Road Tel: 2551 3781

Email: chifu@sunshinehouse.com.hk Clearwater Bay: Level 7, Silverstrand Mart, 2 Silver Cape Road Tel: 2358 3803 Email: clearwaterbay@sunshinehouse.com.hk Discovery Bay: Shop 137-138, 1/F, Discovery Bay Plaza Tel: 2987 8143 Email: dbay@sunshinehouse.com.hk Discovery Bay North: Shop 106, 1/F, Block 6, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island Tel: 2987 0813 Email: dbaynorth@sunshinehouse.com.hk Pok Fu Lam: Commercial Development Block A, Pok Fu Lam Gardens, 108 Pokfulam Road Tel: 2551 3213 Tai Tam: 1/F, Redhill Plaza Tel: 2813 0713 Email: taitam@sunshinehouse.com.hk The Peak: Level 3, Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road Tel: 2849 7123 Email: peak@sunshinehouse.com.hk Tung Chung: 2 Mei Tung Street, Tung Chun Crescent, Lantau

Tel: 2109 3873 Email: tungchung@sunshinehouse.com.hk Website: www.sunshinehouse.com.hk Year groups: 1-6 Class Sizes: 20-25 Year founded: 1990 Curriculum: British, Play-based thematic approach by multicultural team Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: Enhancement classes, extended day sessions Extra-curricular activities: Reading, Putonghua, phonics, math, arts and craft, cooking, science, computer, sport

Think International Kindergarten/Nursery Kowloon: G/F, Phase 3, Laguna City, 99 Cha Kwo Ling Road Tel: 2727 4747 Email: thinkkg_lc@think.edu.hk Kowloon Tong: 5 Lincoln Road Tel: 2338 0211 Email: thinkg_kt@think.edu.hk Ma On Shan: Level 2, Sunshine Bazaar, 628 Sai Sha Road

Central: 1/F, 45-53 Graham Street Tel: 2812 6889 Braemar Hill: LG/F Braemar Hill Shopping Centre, 45 Braemar Hill Road Tel: 2529 1833 Mid-Levels: G/F, 5 Caine Road Tel: 2529 2288 Tai Tam/Red Hill: Unit 101, 1/F, Red Hill Plaza, 3 Red Hill Road Tel: 2813 2688 Kowloon Tong: 1 Dorset Crescent Tel: 2573 9188 9 Suffolk Road Tel: 2529 1188 Email: info@tutortime.com.hk Year groups: age 6 months – 6 Number of teachers: 28 Average class size: 16 Association membership: Learning Care Group, US Year founded: 2001 Curriculum: StartSmart and LifeSmart encouraging whole-child development. Subjects include nature, design, music Medium: English, Putonghua Special program: Language, phonics Extra-curricular activities: Kung Fu, Piano

Victoria Educational Organisation Upper Kornhill Nursery: G/F, 14 Hong Yue Street Tel: 2513 1108, 2513 1208 Email: ukoffc@victoria.edu.hk Middle Kornhill Nursery & Kindergarten: 2/F, 18 Hong On Street Tel: 2885 1888 Email: mkvkoffc@victoria.edu.hk Lower Kornhill International Nursery & Kindergarten: 2-8 Hong On Street Tel: 2885 3331 Email: lkvkoffc@victoria.edu.hk Causeway Bay Kindergarten & Nursery: Schools Guide 2014 37

Preschools

32 Hing Fat Street Tel: 2578 9998 Email: cbvkoffc@victoria.edu.hk North Point Nursery: 5 Fook Yum Road, Ko Fung Court, Harbour Heights Tel: 2571 7888 Email: hhvnoff2@victoria.edu.hk South Horizons International Nursery & Kindergarten: Phase 2, Podium Level Tel:2580 8633 Email: shvkoffc@victoria.edu.hk Belcher’s International Nursery & Kindergarten: L3, Westwood, 8 Belcher’s Street Tel: 2542 7001 Email: bgvkoffc@victoria.edu.hk Ho Man Tin International Nursery & Kindergarten: 9 Carmel Village Street, Carmel-on-the-Hill Tel: 2762 9130 Email: hmtoffc@victoria.edu.hk Harbour Green Kindergarten & International Nursery: G/F, Harbour Green, 8 Sham Mong Road, Kowloon Tel: 2885 1928 Email: enquiry@victoria.edu.hk Website: www.victoria.edu.hk Year groups: 8 months – 5 years Number of students: 4,012 Accreditation: IBO World School Association membership: Victoria Shanghai Academy Year founded: 1965 Curriculum: Trilingual learning environment and activities, inquiry-based learning Number of teachers: 254 Extra-curricular activities: Di Zi Gui, Go, Chinese painting, drama, kung fu, lion dance

Woodland Preschools Multiple locations: Pokfulam, The Peak, Mid-Levels, Happy Valley, Aberdeen, Repulse Bay, Tai Tam, Sai Kung Tel: 2559 4855 Email: enquiry@woodlandschools.com Website: www.woodlandschools.com Curriculum: UK EYFS Medium: English / Putonghua

Hong Kong Island

Bebegarten Education Centre Unit 301-305, Level 3, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong

38 Schools Guide 2014

Preschools

Year groups: age 30 months-6 years Number of students: 51 Number of teachers: 4 Average class size: 14 Year founded: 1986 Curriculum: Focus on physical, mental, social and aesthetic development Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: Stretch-n-Grow, book week, culture, language immersion Extra-curricular activities: Putonghua

Small World Christian Kindergarten

Mills International Preschool Highgate House International School Tel: 3487 2255 Email: info@bebegarten.com Website: www.bebegarten.com Curriculum: The language of children; English nursery to upper kindergarten courses for 3 to 6 years olds Medium: English, Putonghua

Casa Dei Bambini Shop 2-3, Grand Scholar, 419K Queen’s Road West Tel: 2259 3372 Email: joanna@casadeibambini.com.hk Website: www.casadeibambini.com.hk Year groups: Birth–Age 6 Number of students: 25 Number of teachers: 5 Year founded: 2007 Curriculum: No set timetable, Montessori 0-3 and 3-6 programs Medium: English and Putonghua Extra-curricular activities: Putonghua, art, music, yoga, maths, language

ESF International Kindergarten, Hillside 43 B Stubbs Road Tel: 2540 0066 Email: kinder@hs.esf.org.hk Website: www.esfkindergartens.org.hk/

schools/hillside Medium: English Curriculum: Candidate school for the IB PYP, Play-based interactive inquiry

Highgate House School 2/F, 100 Peak Road, The Peak Tel: 2849 6336 Email: info@highgatehouse.edu.hk Website: www.highgatehouse.edu.hk Year groups: Age 1-6 Number of students: 200 Number of teachers: 9 Class Size Range: 13-25 Year founded: 1992 Curriculum: Creative play and practical activities that allow children to develop social, linguistic and dexterity skills. Medium: English Special programs: Putonghua playgroup and extended day classes Extra-curricular activities: Putonghua and creative activities

10 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2525 0922 Email: admissions@smallworld.hk Website: www.smallworld.edu.hk Number of students: 260 Number of teachers: 15 Teacher/Student ratio: 1:10 Year founded: 1986 Curriculum: Biblical foundation curriculum. International Primary Curriculum, sensory approach Medium: English, with Putonghua exposure

The Southside Kindergarten 109 Repulse Bay Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2592 7527 Email: info@southside.edu.hk Website: www.southside.edu.hk Year groups: Nursery, kindergarten Number of students: 105 Number of teachers: 6 Medium: English and Putonghua Year founded: 2000 Special programs: Individual support using Sylvan’s learning programs Extra-curricular activities: Putonghua, arts and craft, music

Starters School 1B, 1/F, Tung Hey Building, 12-22 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai Tel: 2527 8676 Email: info@starters.edu.hk Website: www.starters.edu.hk Year groups: age 3 to 6 years Number of students: 125 Number of teachers: 6 Year Founded: 1977

World-Class Education Awaits Your Child We are proud to announce that Renaissance College is now offering International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) *formerly known as IBCC, it is the first school authorized to offer all four IB programmes: PYP, MYP, DP and IBCP in East Asia! At Renaissance College, a team of top-notch international educators prepares our students to meet the fast changing challenges of today’s world. Through a rigorous and holistic curriculum, we develop global citizens who strive for excellence, appreciate the aesthetics and are empowered to take progressive action. Applications for Year 9, 10 & 11 (equivalent to local school Form 2, 3 & 4) for the academic year of 2014 - 2015 are still open, to join MYP, apply now. For application, please visit http://www.renaissance.edu.hk/admissions For any enquiries contact admissions@rchk.edu.hk or 3556 3556.

Montessori For Children House A, Phoenix Garden, RBL 1033, Tai Tam Village, Stanley Tel: 2813 9589 Email: hongkong@montessori.edu.sg Website: www.montessori.edy.sg Schools Guide 2014 39

Preschools

Primary & Secondary Schools

Curriculum: UK Early Years Program Medium: English Extra-curricular activities: Phonics, learning-through-play classes

schools/tsing-yi Medium: English Curriculum: IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Play-based interactive

Mills International Preschool

ESF International Kindergarten, Wu Kai Sha

The Spectacle, 8 Cho Yuen Street, Yau Tong Tel: 2717 6336 Email: preschool@millsinternational.edu.hk Website: www.millsinternational.edu.hk Year groups: pre-nursery – K3 Number of students: 40 Number of teachers: 7 Average class size: Varies Year founded: 2013 Curriculum: British Early Years Medium: English and Putonghua Extra-curricular activities: communication skills training, musical theatre, arts and crafts

YMCA International Kindergarten 2/F, YMCA, 41 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui Tel: 2268 7766 Email: kindergarten@ymcahk.org.hk Website: www.ymcaikg.edu.hk Year groups: 32 months – 6 years Number of students: 140 Number of teachers: 13 Year founded: 1982 Curriculum: British, child-centered approach and group learning, math, social development and physical play gym, art and music Medium: English Extra-curricular activities: Swimming, football, taekwondo, basketball

New Territories

ESF Abacus International Kindergarten Mang Kung Uk Road, Clearwater Bay Tel: 2719 5712 Email: kinder@abacus.esf.org.hk Website: www.abacus.esf.org.hk Medium: English Curriculum: IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Play-based interactive inquiry program, English and bilingual streams

ESF International Kindergarten, Tsing Yi Maritime Square, 33 Tsing King Road, Tsing Yi Tel: 2436 3355 Email: kinder@ty.esg.org.hk Website: www.esfkindergartens.org.hk/

40 Schools Guide 2014

Level 1, 599 Sai Sha Road, Sha Tin Tel: 2435 5291 Email: kinder@wks.esf.org.hk Website: www.wks.esf.org.hk Medium: English Curriculum: Candidate School for IB PYP, Play-based, inquiry programme in a range of group sizes

David Exodus Kindergarten UG/F, Block 4, Julimount Garden, Hin Tin Street, Tai Wai, Sha Tin Tel: 2693 3772, 2699 0100 Email: lindamheaney@gmail.com Website: www.davidexodus.edu.hk Year groups: K1-3 Number of students: 50 Year founded: 1988 Number of teachers: 3 Average class size: 24 Curriculum: Thematic approach, learning through play Medium: English Special programs: Special needs

Leapfrog Kindergarten 11 Pak Tam Chung Village, Sai Kung Country Park, Sai Kung Tel: 2791 1540 Email: admin@leapfrogkindergarten.org Website: www.leapfrogkindergarten.org Year groups: K1-2, PG1-3 Number of students: 80 Class size range: 15-20 Year founded: 1997 Curriculum: British early years foundation. Learn through play with Putonghua-speaking assistants Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: Putonghua

SKIP (Sai Kung International Pre-school) 159 Che Keng Tuk Road, Sai Kung Tel: 2791 7354 Email: skip@skip.edu.hk Website: www.skip.edu.hk Year groups: 1-5 Number of students: 120 Average class size: 20

Year founded: 1989 Curriculum: British foundation-stage literacy and numeracy, arts and craft, music, personal and social skills through play Medium: English Special programs: Split classes

Primary & Secondary Schools Hong Kong Island

Chinese International School 1 Hau Yuen Path, Braemar Hill, North Point Tel: 2510 7288 Email: admissions@cis.edu.hk Year groups: Reception – Y13 Number of students: 1,425 Number of teachers: 170 Class size range: 14-22 Accreditation: Council of International Schools. New England Association of Schools and Colleges Association membership: Association of China and Mongolia International Schools, National Association of Independent Schools Year founded: 1983 Curriculum: English, Putonghua, maths, other subjects at primary level. International curriculum. Secondary students follow the IB, MYP and IB Diploma. Arts, sports and community service included. French, Spanish at secondary level. Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: CIS Hangzhou for Y10 students Extra-curricular activities: Team and recreational sports, performing arts, community service, interest groups

French International School Kindergarten: 2-3, Tung Fai Gardens, 17 Po Yan Street, Sheung Wan Tel: 2975 4522 Primary: (CM1-2, P5-6): 1 Cheung Man Road, Chai Wan Primary: 34 Prince Road, Jardine’s Lookout Tel: 2577 6217 Secondary: 165 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley Tel: 2577 6217 Email: fis@lfis.edu.hk Website: www.fis.edu.hk

Year groups: Reception to Upper 6: must be aged 4 (international section). Petite section to Terminale, must be aged 3 (French section) Number of students: 2,368 Number of teachers: 180 Average class size: 24 Accreditation: Agency for French Teaching Abroad, IBO, Cambridge International Examinations Year founded: 1964 Curriculum: International section follows British curriculum, with focus leading to IGCSE, IB diploma. French section follows French Ministry of Education Medium: English in international section, French in French section Special programs: All students follow the expanded curriculum for IGCSE lesson Extra-curricular activities: Painting, calligraphy, dance, music, sport

German Swiss International School 11 Guildford Road, The Peak 162 Pokfulam Road, Pok Fu Lam (Kindergarten, lower primary) Tel: 2849 6216, 2849 6217 (Pok Fu Lam) 30 Oi Kwan Road, Wan Chai (Upper Primary) Tel: 2849 6218 (Wan Chai) Email: info@gsis.edu.hk Year groups: English: kindergarten EKG1-2, primary Y1-6, secondary Y7-13. German: kindergarten 1-2, preschool (DVOR), primary K1-4, secondary K5-12 Number of students: 1,295 Number of teachers: 151 Average class size: 12-26 Year founded: 1969 Curriculum: German stream leads to International Abitur; English stream to IGCSE, AS, A-levels, IB Diploma Medium: English and German Extra-curricular activities: Sports, art, technology, music, services, clubs

Highgate House School International Steiner Waldorf Pre-School

Right from the start Waldorf Education unlocks unique talents Just imagine where your child could go... From birth to 6 years, English & Mandarin classes available Please contact us to arrange a school visit 2849 6336 or info@highgatehouse.edu.hk 100 Peak Road, The Peak, Hong Kong www.highgatehouse.edu.hk Schools Guide 2014 41

Primary & Secondary Schools

Kellett School - The British International School in Hong Kong

Mills International Preschool

Hong Kong International School Primary: 23 South Bay Close, Repulse Bay Secondary: 1 Red Hill Road, Tai Tam Tel: 3149 7000 Email admissions@hkis.edu.hk Website: www.hkis.edu.hk Year groups: R1-G12 Number of students: 2,600 Number of teachers: 248 Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Association membership: Association of China and Mongolia International Schools Year founded: 1966 Curriculum: American-style education. Asian and Chinese studies, Putonghua, information technology, advanced placement courses Medium: English Extra-curricular activities: Sport, art, technology, music, services, clubs

Independent Schools Foundation Academy 1 Kong Sin Wan Road, Pok Fu Lam Tel: 2202 2000 Email: enquiry@isf.edu.hk Website: www.isf.edu.hk Year groups: Foundation year - G12 Number of students: 1,320 Number of teachers: 190 Class Size Range: 18-20 Accreditation: IB World School Association membership: IBO, Council of International Schools Year founded: 2003 42 Schools Guide 2014

Curriculum: FY-G5 Putonghua and English Immersion program; IB MYP for G6-10; IB Diploma G11-12 Medium: Putonghua and English Special programs: Shuyan Extra-curricular activities: Sport, arts, community services, clubs, student council

International Montessori School South Horizons Campus (Kindergarten): G/F, Blks 23 to 23a, South Horizons Phase 3, Ap Lei Chau Tel: 2861 0339 Mid-Levels Campus: Tung Fai Gardens, 17 Po Yan Street, Sheung Wan Tel: 2857 7007 Kindergarten & Primary: 62 Tin Hau Temple Road, Tin Hau Tel: 2156 9033 Stanley Campus: Ma Hang Estate Phase 3, Stanley (adjacent to Stanley Plaza) Tel: 2861 0339 Email: info@montessori.edu.hk Year groups: K-P6 Number of students: Kindergarten: 400, Primary: 300 Year founded: 2002 Number of teachers: 75 Average class size: 25 with two teachers Curriculum: Montessori, dual-language, interactive, inquiry-based learning Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: art, music, English, IT Extra-curricular activities: Judo, gymnastics, soccer, science, chess, art, music

Preparatory School: 2 Wah Lok Path, Wah Fu, Pok Fu Lam Tel: 2551 8234 Prep & Secondary School: 7 Lam Hing Street, Kowloon Bay Tel: 2551 8234 Email: kellett@kelletschool.com Website: www.kellettschool.com Year groups: Reception – Y12 Number of students: 725 Number of teachers: 74 Average class size: 22 Accreditation: Regular inspection by Penta International Association membership: Federation of British International Schools in South East Asia and East Asia Year founded: 1976 Curriculum: British, leading to GCSE, IGCSE, A-Levels Medium: English Special programs: Special needs places Extra-curricular activities: Extensive range

English teachers co-teach Special programs: Sport, performing arts, leadership summer services Extra-curricular activities: Wide range

Kowloon

American International School 125 Waterloo Road, Kowloon Tong Tel: 2336 3812 Email: admin@ais.edu.hk Website: www.ais.edu.hk Year groups: Early childhood – G12 Number of students: 825 Number of teachers: 53 Average class size: 19-23 Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Association membership: Regional Council of Schools, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, National Association of Independent Schools Year founded: 1986 Curriculum: US Medium: English

Special programs: Personal and social development, visual and performing arts, outdoor education, leadership Extra-curricular activities: Sports teams, school productions, personal and social development program, band

Australian International School 3A Norfolk Road, Kowloon Tong Tel: 2304 6078 Email: info@aishk.edu.hk Website: www.aishk.edu.hk Year groups: Reception – Y12 Number of students: 1,125 Class size range: 22-26 Accreditation: NSW Board of Studies, IB World School Association membership: Association of China and Mongolia International Schools Year founded: 1995 Curriculum: Australian from Reception to Y12. IB diploma in Y11-12. Students can sit for Higher School Certificate Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: ESL, learning center for special needs students

Extra-curricular activities: Wide range, including sports, arts, academic, community service

Christian Alliance PC Lau Memorial International School Preparatory-G3: Lai Yiu campus, Lai Yiu Estate, Wah Yiu Road, Lai King Tel: 2778 3370 G4-12: Kowloon City campus, 2 Fu Ning Street, Kowloon City Tel: 2713 3733 Email: info@cais.edu.hk Website: www.cais.edu.hk Year groups: Preparatory-G12 Number of students: 850 Number of teachers: 86 Class size range: 20-25 Accreditation: Alberta, Canada Association membership: ACAMIS Year founded: 1992 Curriculum: Alberta curriculum leading to Alberta Diploma; Advanced Placement (AP) program leading to AP International Diploma Special programs: Putonghua at every grade level (simplified or traditional)

The Harbour School 2/F, 23 Belcher’s Street, Kennedy Town Centre, Kennedy Town Tel: 2816 5222 Email: info@theharbourschool.edu.hk Website: www.theharbourschool.edu.hk Year groups: Pre-K to Grade 8 Number of teachers: 19 Average class size: 13 Year founded: 2007 Curriculum: US Special programs: Gifted Programming and Learning Support

Victoria Shanghai Academy 19 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen Tel: 3402 1000 Email: enguiries@vsa.edu.hk Website: www.vsa.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-12 Number of students: 1,665 Number of teachers: 157 Average class size: 28 Accreditation: IB World School Association membership: Council of International Schools, IBO Year founded: 2004 Curriculum: IB PYP, MYP, IB Diploma Medium: English, Putonghua, Chinese and Schools Guide 2014 43

Primary & Secondary Schools

English Schools Foundation

Year founded: 2000 Curriculum: Hands-on, inquiry-based learning within the IB PYP, MYP framework, Integrated technology, Chinese culture and language Medium: English

International College Hong Kong Hong Lok Yuen

Kellet School Medium: English Extra-curricular activities: Basketball, soccer, track, dance, karate, student representative council, community and global outreach, social justice, yearbook

Yew Chung International School Early childhood: 3 Somerset Road, Kowloon Tong Primary: 2 Kent Road, Kowloon Tong Secondary: 3 To Fuk Road, Kowloon Tong Tel: 2338 7106 Email: enquiry@hk.ycef.com Website: www.ycis-hk.com Year groups: 6 months-5, Y1-13 Number of students: 2,500 Number of teachers: 200 Average class size: 20-25 Accreditation: IB World School, Cambridge International Examinations Year founded: 1932 Curriculum: International, British-based, IGCSE, IB Medium: English, Putonghua and Cantonese Special programs: World classroom, English, Chinese

New Territories

Discovery Bay International School Discovery Bay, Lantau Island Tel: 2914 2142 (kindergarten) Tel: 2987 7331 (primary/secondary) Email: dbis@dbis.edu.hk Website: www.dbis.edu.hk

44â&#x20AC;&#x192; Schools Guide 2014

Year groups: Nursery-secondary Number of students: 90 Average class size: 20-24 Year founded: 1983 Curriculum: British. Specialist teachers for physical education, music, Putonghua, information and communication technology Medium: English

Harrow International School Hong Kong 38 Tsing Ying Road, Tuen Mun Tel: 2824 9099 Email: info@harrowschool.hk Website: www.harrowschool.hk Year groups: Pre-K to Year 13 Number of students: 750 Number of teachers: 90 Class size range: 15-24 Year founded: 2012 Curriculum: National Curriculum of England progressing to IGCSEs (Years 10-11) and A-levels (Years 12-13) Medium: English

Hong Kong Academy 33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung Tel: 2655 1111 Email: office@hkacademy.edu.hk Website: www.hkacademy.edu.hk Year groups: PK1- G12 Number of students: 560 Number of teachers: 100 Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Association of China and Mongolia International Schools, Council of International Schools

(Formerly Hong Lok Yuen International School) 3 Twentieth Street, Hong Lok Yuen Tel: 2658 6935 Email: info@hlyis.edu.hk Website: http://www.hlyis.edu.hk Year groups: Nursery to Year 6 Number of students: 453 Accreditation: Council of International Schools (CIS) Year founded: 1984 Curriculum: IB PYP Medium: English Number of teachers: 25 Average class size: 25 Extra-curricular activities: wide-ranging

Email: enquires@bs.esf.edu.hk Website: www.bradbury.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 720 Number of teachers: 42 Average class size: 30 Year founded: 1980 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Special programs: Special needs catered for in Learning Support Center Medium: English Extra-curricular activities: A wide-range led by staff and outside providers

Clearwater Bay School Lot 235, DD229 Clearwater Bay Road, Kowloon Tel: 2358 3221 Email: info@cwbs.edu.hk Website: www.cwbs.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 720 Number of teachers: 38 Average class size: 30

Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools Year founded: 1992 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Medium: English Special programs: Learning Support Center for students with moderate learning and physical needs. Specialist music, physical education and Putonghua programs. Extra-curricular activities: Wide range run by staff, ESF Educational Services and private companies

Glenealy School 7 Hornsey Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2522 1919 Email: enquiry@gs.esf.edu.hk Website: www.glenealy.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 360 Number of teachers: 20 Average class size: 30 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools Year founded: 1959 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program

Medium: English Special programs: Individual Needs Department for Students needing extra learning support. A comprehension excursion program; Y6 students travel to China as part of their inquiry program. Extra-curricular activities: A wide range run by staff and outside providers

Kennedy School 19 Sha Wan Drive, Pok Fu Lam Tel: 2855 0711 Email: admissions@kennedy.edu.hk Website: www.kennedy.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 900 Number of teachers: 41 Average class size: 30 Accreditation: IB Primary Years Program Medium: English Special programs: Specialist teachers for music, PE and Putonghua. A strong performing-arts department and commitment to environmental sustainability. Extra-curricular activities: A rich and varied program

English Schools Foundation PrimarY

Beacon Hill School 23 Ede Road, Kowloon Tong Tel: 2336 5221 Email: bhs@bhs.edu.hk Website: www.beaconhill.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 530 Number of teachers: 30 Average class size: 30 Year founded: 1967 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools (CIS), Southern China PYP Network Medium: English, Putonghua Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Special programs: The school can cater for 21 children with more significant special educational needs Extra-curricular activities: wide ranging, many activities offered by external agencies

Bradbury School 43C Stubbs Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2574 8249 Schools Guide 2014â&#x20AC;&#x192; 45

Private Independent Schools

English Schools Foundation

Kowloon Junior School 20 Perth Street, Ho Man Tin Tel: 3765 8700 Email: office@kjs.edu.hk Website: www.kjs.edu.hk Year groups: Ya-6 Number of students: 900 Number of teachers: 50 Average class size: 30 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools Year founded: 1902 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Medium: English Special programs: Individual needs department incorporating learning support classes; classes for children with moderate learning needs Extra-curricular activities: Wide range run by school staff and outside providers

Peak School 20 Plunkett’s Road, The Peak Tel: 2849 7211 Email: office@peakschool.net Website: www.ps.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 360 Number of teachers: 19 Average class size: 30 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Year founded: 1911 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Medium: English Special programs: Learning Support Center for children with moderate learning difficulties Extra-curricular: Wide variety

Quarry Bay School 6 Hua Yuen Path, Braemar Hill, North Point Tel: 2566 4242 Email: office@qbs.edu.hk Website: www.qbs.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 720 Number of teachers: 37 Average class size: 30 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools Year founded: 1926 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Medium: English and Putonghua Special programs: Individual needs department and learning support class, 46 Schools Guide 2014

community projects Extra-curricular activities: A wide range run by school staff and private agencies

Sha Tin Junior School 3A Lai Wo Lane, Fo Tan, Sha Tin Tel: 2692 2721 Email: info@sjs.esf.edu.hk Website: www.sjs.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-6 Number of students: 900 Number of teachers: 48 Average class size: 30 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools Year founded: 1988 Curriculum: IB Primary Years Program Medium: English Special programs: Learning support class, specialist teaching in Putonghua (daily lessons), PE, ICT, music, information literacy Extra-curricular activities: A wide range provided by teachers and outside agencies

Secondary

Island School 20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2524 7135 Email: school@online.island.edu.hk Website: www.island.edu.hk Year groups: Y7-13 Number of students: 1,200 Number of teachers: 95 Average class size: 12-30 Accreditation: IB World School, BTEC Accredited, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Year founded: 1967 Curriculum: Y7-8, a school-designed curriculum building on the IB PYP; Y9-11, a wide range of courses, including GCSE and IGCSE; Y12-13, IB Diploma; Applied Learning Pathway leading to BTEC and GCE AS-level qualifications; Work and Life Skills Pathway for students with special needs. Chinese available as a foreign, second and first language Medium: English Special programs: Learning Support Center. Provision for students whose first language is not English Extra-curricular activities: Sports, drama, music, debate. Local and overseas community service opportunities

King George V School 2 Tin Kwong Road, Ho Man Tin Tel: 2711 3029 Email: office@kgv.edu.hk Website: www.kgv.edu.hk Year groups: Y7-13 Number of students: 1,700 Number of teachers: 127 Average class size: 12-30 Accreditation: IB World School, BTEC Accredited, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Secondary Geography Quality Mark Year founded: 1902 Curriculum: Y7-11 offers a broad range of subjects leading to GCSE and IGCSE; Y12-13 IB Diploma Pathway; Applied Learning Pathway and Work and Life Skills Pathway for students with special needs. Chinese is available as a foreign, second, and first language Medium: English Special programs: Learning Support Center for students with moderate learning difficulties; provisions for students whose first language is not English Extra-curricular activities: Sports, drama, music among many options. Local and overseas community services

Sha Tin College 3 Lai Wo Lane, Fo Tan, Sha Tin Tel: 2699 1811 Email: info@shatincollege.edu.hk Website: www.shatincollege.edu.hk Year groups: Y7-13 Number of students: 1,200 Number of teachers: 101 Average class size: 12-24 Accreditation: IB World School, BTEC Accredited, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Year founded: 1982 Curriculum: Y7-11 offers a broad range of subjects leading to GCSE and IGCSE; Y12-13 IB Diploma Pathway; Applied Learning Pathway and Work and Life Skills Pathway for students with special needs. Chinese is available as a foreign, second and first language Special programs: Learning Support Center; provision for students whose first language is not English Extra-curricular activities: Sports, drama, music, debate; local and overseas community service opportunities

South Island School 50 Nam Fung Road, Aberdeen Tel: 2555 9313 Email: sis@mail.sis.edu.hk Website: www.sis.edu.hk Year groups: Y7-13 Number of students: 1,400 Number of teachers: 111 Average class size: 15-26 Accreditation: IB World School, BTEC Accredited, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Association membership: English Schools Foundation Year founded: 1977 Curriculum: Y7-11 offers a broad range of subjects leading to GCSE and IGCSE; Y12-13 IB Diploma Pathway; Applied Learning Pathway and Work and Life Skills Pathway for students with special needs. Chinese available as a foreign, second and first language Medium: English Special programs: Learning support center;

provision for students whose first language is not English Extra-curricular activities: Sports, drama, music, debate among 200 offered

West Island School 250 Victoria Road, Pokfulam Tel: 2819 1962 Email: wis@wis.edu.hk Website: www.wis.edu.hk Year groups: Y7-13 Number of students: 1,200 Number of teachers: 95 Average class size: 12-30 Accreditation: IB World School, BTEC accredited, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Year founded: 1991 Curriculum: Y7-11 offers a broad range of subjects leading to GCSE and IGCSE; Y12-13 IB Diploma Pathway; Applied Learning Pathway and Work and Life Skills Pathway for students with special needs. Chinese is available as a foreign, second, and first language

Medium: English Special Program: Learning Support Center; provision for students whose first language is not English Extra-curricular activities: Sports, drama, music, debate among 200 activities offered

Private Independent Schools Discovery College 38 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island Tel: 3969 1000 Email: office@discovery.edu.hk Website: www.dscovery.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-13 Number of students: 1,300 Number of teachers: 106 Average class size: 15-30 Schools Guide 2014 47

Private Independent Schools

Canadian International School of Hong Kong

Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Association membership: English Schools Foundation Year founded: 2007 Curriculum: IB; Applied Learning Pathway available through transfer to other ESF schools Medium: English Special programs: Academic, performing arts, sports, visual arts Extra-curricular activities: sports, drama, music, debate, community services

36 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen Tel: 2525 7088 Email: admissions@cdnis.edu.hk Website: www.cdnis.edu.hk Curriculum: IB and OSSD Medium: English

Carmel School Association Elsa High School 460 Shau Kei Wan Road, Shau Kei Wan Tel: 3667 5388 Email: admin@carmel.edu.hk Website: www.carmel.edu.hk Curriculum: International Baccalaureate Medium: English

Jockey Club Sarah Roe School 2B Tin Kwong Road, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon Tel: 2761 9893 Email: info@jcsrs.edu.hk Website: www.jcrs.edu.hk Medium: English Curriculum: Primary Learning Program, ASDAN Award Program, Transition Challenge Program, Towards Independence Challenge

Carmel School Association Elementary School 10 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2964 1600 Email: admin@carmel.edu.hk Website: www.carmel.edu.hk Curriculum: Carmel Elementary Curriculum Medium: English

Renaissance College 5 Hang Ming Street, Ma On Shan Tel: 3556 3556 Email: admissions@rchk.edu.hk Website: www.rchk.edu.hk Year groups: Y1-13 Number of students: 2,100 Number of teachers: 155 Average class size: 10-27 Accreditation: IB World School, Council of International Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Association membership: English School Foundation Year founded: 2006 Curriculum: IB Primary, Middle and Diploma Programs; Applied Learning Pathway available through transfer to other ESF schools. Chinese is available as a foreign, second and first language Medium: English Special programs: Academic, performing arts, sports, visual arts Extra-curricular activities: sports, drama, music, debate; local and overseas community service opportunities

Baby Buddies (Playgroup/Nursery) Causeway Bay: 4/F, 26 Leighton Road, Capital Commercial Building Sheung Wan: 1/F, 139 Wing Lok Street, 48 Schools Guide 2014

Carmel School Association Ganeynu and Pre-school Wing Hing Commercial Building Jordan/Kowloon: 7/F, 59 Parkes Street, Will Strong Development Building Tel: 5188 0671 Email: info@letter-land.com Website: www.letter-land.com Curriculum: Early Years Foundation Stage, age 3 months to 3 years old Medium: English, English/Putonghua Bilingual

Alison’s Letterland 10 Cleveland Street, Marco Polo Mansions 2C, Causeway Bay Tel: 5188 0671 Email: info@letter-land.com Website: www.letter-land.com Curriculum: Early Years Foundation Stage, age 3 months to 3 years old Medium: English, English/Putonghua Bilingual

Tutor Time International Nursery and Kindergarten Braemar Hill: G-LG/F, Braemar Hill Shopping Centre, 45 Braemar Hill Road Tel: 2529 1833 WOW Central: 1/F, Garley Building,

45-53 Graham Street, Central Tel: 2812 6889 Mid-Levels: G/F, Botanical Court, 5 Caine Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2529 2288 Red Hill-Tai Tam: Unit 101, 1/F, Red Hill Plaza, 3 Red Hill Road, Tai Tam Tel: 2813 2688 Kowloon Tong: 1 Dorset Crescent Tel: 2573 9188 WOW Kowloon Tong: 9 Suffolk Road Tel: 2529 1188 Email: info@tutortime.com.hk Website: www.tutortime.com.hk Curriculum: StartSmart for Nursery, LifeSmart for Kindergarten Medium: English and Putonghua

Discovery Montessori Academy Block 1, Discovery Bay North, Lantau Island Tel: 2987 1201 Email: enquiry@discoverymontessori.info Website: www.dms.edu.hk Age groups: Y3-12 Curriculum: International Montessori Curriculum & IB Systems

Medium: English/Putonghua Bilingual

Discovery Montessori School Discovery Bay: Unit 101, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North, Lantau Island Tel: 2987 1201 Central: 3/F, Mandarin Building, 35-43 Bonham Strand, Central Tel: 2850 8006 Email: enquiry@discoverymontessori.info Website: www.dms.edu.hk Age groups: Y1-6 Curriculum: International Montessori Curriculum Medium: English/Putonghua Bilingual

International Learning Centre 19/F, Jardine Centre, 50 Jardine Bazaar, Causeway Bay Tel: 3621 0010 Email: enquiry@littlemontessorian.com Website: www.littlemontessorian.com Age groups: Y1-6 Curriculum: International Montessori Curriculum Medium: English

3-4/F, One Robinson Place, 70 Robinson Road, Mid-Levels Tel: 2249 7600 Email: admin@carmel.edu.hk Website: www.carmel.edu.hk Curriculum: Carmel Preschool Curriculum Medium: English

Kiangsu & Chekiang Primary School Lower Campus: 30 Ching Wah Street, North Point Tel: 2570 4594 Email: inter@kcis.edu.hk Upper Campus: 20 Braemar Hill Road, North Point Tel: 2570 1281 Email: inter2@kcis.edu.hk Website: www.kcis.edu.hk Curriculum: British National Curriculum Medium: English with daily Putonghua lessons

California School 3/F, Front Block, 550 Nathan Road, Yau Ma Tei Tel: 2388 9844 Email: info@californiaschool.edu.hk

Website: www.californiaschool.edu.hk Curriculum: IGCSE & GCE Medium: English

Nord Anglia International School 11 On Tin Street, Lam Tin, Kowloon Tel: 3958 1488 Email: info@nais.hk Website: www.nais.hk Curriculum: English National Curriculum Medium: English

Christian Alliance P.C. Lau Memorial International School (CAIS) Kowloon City: 2 Fu Ning Street Tel: 2713 3733 Lai King: Lai Yiu Estate, Wah Yiu Road Tel: 2778 3370 Email: info@cais.edu.hk Website: www.cais.edu.hk Curriculum: North American with Advanced Placement (AP) courses Medium: English

Yew Chung International School Kindergarten: 29 Kent Road, 3 & 20 Somerset Road, 151 Waterloo Road, Kowloon Tong Primary: 22 Somerset Road, 2 & 11 Kent Road, Kowloon Tong Secondary: 3 To Fuk Road, Kowloon Tong Tel: 2338 7106 Email: admissions@ycef.com Website: www.ycis-hk.com Curriculum: YCIS’s international curriculum is based on the framework and schemes of work from The National Curriculum for England (NCE) Medium: English and Putonghua

Concordia International School 68 Begonia Road, Yau Yat Chuen, Kowloon Tel: 2789 9890 Email: office@concordiaintl.edu.hk Website: www.cihs.edu.hk Curriculum: North American Medium: English

International Christian School 1 On Muk Lane, Shatin, New Territories Tel: 3920 0000 Email: ics@ics.edu.hk Website: www.ics.edu.hk Curriculum: North American Medium: English

Schools Guide 2014 49

Special Needs Schools

International College Hong Kong 60 Sha Tau Kok Road, Sha Tau Kok, New Territories Tel: 2655 9018 Email: info@ichk.edu.hk Website: www.ichk.edu.hk Curriculum: GCSE, IGCSE, IBDP Medium: English

Special Needs Schools Family Partners School 4/F, 148 Connaught Road West, Shueng Wan Tel: 2291 6003 Email: info@fps.edu.hk Website: Under Construction Curriculum: Consists of the Key Learning Areas that are widely used in Hong Kong schools; supplements this with other learning experiences which enable staff to meet the

School’s In We asked the collective wisdom of the Hong Kong Moms Facebook group for their tips on getting their kids ready for school.

special educational needs of pupils. Provides for pupils who are on the Autism Spectrum. Medium: English

Rainbow Project Learning Centre G/F, Yuen Fai Court, 10 Sai Yuen Lan, Sai Ying Pun Tel: 2548 7123 Email: rainbow@rainbowproject.org Website: www.rainbowproject.org Curriculum: Autism Specific Curriculum for pre-school and primary school Medium: English

The Children’s Institute of Hong Kong

The Nesbitt Centre LG/F, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex, 2 High Street, Sai Ying Pun Tel: 2813 4550 Email: info@nesbittcentre.org.hk Website: www.nesbittcentre.org.hk Curriculum: The Nesbitt Centre provides a comprehensive English-speaking Preparation for Life program for adults with learning disabilities; residential facility providing respite and the development of skills for supported independent living and community interaction. Medium: English

19/F, Kennedy Town Center, 23 Belcher’s Street, Kennedy Town Tel: 2812 2144 Email: info@tchik.org Website: www.tcihk.org Curriculum: Applied Behavior Analysis Medium: English

Addicted to The List? Good news: now you can get your biweekly hit of insider info delivered straight to your door or e-mail inbox! That’s right, now that The List delivers, you no longer have to overturn coffee shops, dig through friends’ apartments and pluck copies from the hands of unsuspecting passersby.

them know you will see them at

Don’t do their homework for them.

home later to assure them that they

Let them do their own homework. If

are still loved and wanted.

they don’t it, they will get in trouble

Ying Perrett

Never Miss Another Issue!

and they will learn to be responsible for themselves. Trust the teachers

Speaking as a parent of a four-year-

as a default position. Too many

old and as a primary school teacher,

extra-curricular activities is not a

don’t linger and don’t cry too! Say

good thing for children. It’s usually

goodbye and explain that you’ll be

an excuse for absent parents to

Tip for getting teenagers out of bed?

there later and leave. I also gave my

keep their kids busy. Take your kids

Tell them they just got a Snapchat

son one of my rubber bands, which

to school and go to get them once

message on their phone! Our

became a power band for him. I

in a while, even if they usually take

children’s phones, iPads, iPods and

told him that if he missed me, he

the bus. They love to be surprised by

computers are all out on a central

can speak to it and pretend that I’m

their parents at the end of

charging station, so nothing is in

listening. Apparently that gave him

school day.

their room! They’ll jump out of bed

loads of comfort.

to retrieve it, for sure!

Faith Jasmine Sim

Catherine McGrory

I don’t recommend clothing labels—

schools is www.tigermom.com.

First day at school? I tell my

clothing pens are much better. The

It’s got a comprehensive listing of

youngest, who is in K2, that there

ink doesn’t come out and they are

educational establishments, plus

are lots of children to play with and

more affordable and easier to use.

reviews from parents.

that they are a big girl/boy now. Let

Kimberly Nelson

Tiki Sonderhoff

Yves G. A. Bernard A great database for Hong Kong

(founder, www.tigermom.com)

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