Back in the days when the New Territories were largely rural, hundreds of villagers had their own little schools because it would not be practical for young children to travel a long way to go to school in town.
The typical village school had just a few classrooms and enrolment could vary from a few dozens to around 100.
It was not uncommon for students of different grades to receive tuition in the same classroom and to be taught by the same teacher at different intervals.
Because of the small enrolment, teachers could practically keep an eye on every student. The cozy atmosphere of village schools and the close relationship between their staff and students are something that could hardly be replicated in urban schools with hundreds of students. The village school was also more than just a school. It was often a source of pride for the whole village, as every family probably chipped in to build it, and a centre of social life, where many civic functions were held.
The school principal and teachers were often held in high esteem as the only residents in the village who could read and write.
But all that has changed over the past two decades as many villages lose their rural character because of urbanisation.
As proper roads have shortened travelling time, many villagers now happily send their children to schools in town that are equipped with modern facilities. They do not even mind paying for the costs of busing their children because they know these schools offer a more comprehensive education.