Strong language focus for globalised future

The HKMA David Li Kwok Po College has a forward-looking approach to learning that is reflected in its multi-level English usage, a broad curriculum base, and an emphasis on active student participation in class and out.

Judging by its lively, well-attended extra-curricular activities, the 751 students are having fun too.

In the last two years, the government has been trying to promote Putonghua in Chinese-medium schools. But critics say that today's students - who will be tomorrow's business people - should be proficient in English in order to compete in an increasingly globalised world.

While most Hong Kong schools are churning out students with a rudimentary grasp of English, the college has a strict policy of making English the medium of instruction, with the exception of Chinese history and foreign languages.

Seven out of the nine English teachers from three different countries are native English speakers.

'The policy of the English department is to have 90 per cent student participation, with lots of oral work, task-based activities, and working in pairs,' says the school's Panel Head of English, Barry Thomas.