The growing popularity of programmes run by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) reflects the drive for a more global outlook in education.
The programmes offer a holistic, internationalist schooling for students from kindergarten to secondary school graduation.
The Swiss-based IBO's flagship is its diploma, which students study to complete their schooling. This is a qualification now recognised and respected by universities worldwide, including those in Hong Kong. Chinese International School, Li Po Chun United World College, French International School, and Yew Chung Hong Kong International School all offer the diploma.
Te ESF's Sha Tin College is the first in the foundation to drop British A-levels in favour of the more international programme. The ESF will decide this year whether all its secondary schools will follow Sha Tin's example.
The IBO has extended its philosophy to all levels of schooling, with the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) also available in Hong Kong. Chinese International, which has taught the diploma since 1992, was the first school in Hong Kong to switch from Britain's GCSEs to the IB MYP, for students aged 12 to 16.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong Academy Primary School, Victoria English Primary School, and Kingston International Primary School are all undergoing the rigorous authorisation process to run the PYP for three to 12-year-olds.
The diploma comprises three subjects studied in depth and three at more general levels, with maths and a language in the line-up. Students must also complete a 4,000-word research project and study the philosophical Theory of Knowledge. Finally, marks are also awarded for community service, the arts and sport.