An A to Z of education jargon

Confused between a Steiner and a Montessori or a PIS and a DSS? This glossary provides an explanation of the terms used in our tables

ACAMIS: The Association of China and Mongolia International Schools, which has 25 member schools in mainland China, Mongolia and Hong Kong, the latter including Chinese International School, Hong Kong Academy Primary School, Hong Kong International School and the Australian International School Hong Kong.

Council of International Schools (CIS): The global offshoot of the European Council of International Schools (ECIS), which provides accreditation, among other services.

Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS): Under the scheme, schools receive government subsidies similar to those for aided schools. But DSS schools can also charge fees and enjoy greater independence and flexibility in terms of management, curriculum and student admission. So far, 56 schools have joined.

English as a Second Language (ESL): Programmes designed to help non-native English speakers learn the language more quickly. Also known as English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) and English as an additional language (EAL).

General Certificate of Education (GCE): An internationally recognised qualification offered by three British examination boards approved by Britain's Qualifications and Curriculum Authority. GCE A-levels are equivalent to Hong Kong A-levels. Since 2000 they have been divided into two parts - the AS-level taken after the first year of senior secondary education and the A2 after the second and final year.