Dozens of parents braved heavy overnight rain and more than 700 others joined them yesterday to fight for coveted places for their children at the only government-funded Form Six school.
More than 3,000 students competed for just 360 places in mathematics, business, biology and the arts at the Po Leung Kuk Vicwood K. T. Chong Sixth Form College. Only 14 places are left today.
Principal Chan Siu-kui said the Tai Kok Tsui school avoided the chaos of last year despite the large number of hopefuls.
'We have learned our lesson and have had help from police and hired extra security guards,' he said.
Up to 10 police officers were stationed outside the school early yesterday and guards watched over entrances.
Pansy Chan began queuing for her son before midnight on Monday. 'I only expect to do this once in my life for my son. I brought a chair, a radio and two umbrellas,' she said.