They really are the new schools on the block.
Many parents will be keenly watching the development of the wave of new schools that are opening in response to the government's initiative to promote a strong independent sector.
Up until now, families have turned to the top international schools for more exclusive education. But many have been frustrated that there are very few that can offer that magic mix of international-style education and excellence in both English and Chinese. Poor Chinese has traditionally been the price paid when parents turn their backs on local schools.
The private independent schools (PIS) will compete with popular international schools. Many plan to offer the International Baccalaureate programmes but they will be tailored more to local needs, with greater commitment to Chinese language instruction.
Most of the 10 PIS schools allocated sites for new campuses to be built with government grants are now open, even though they may be housed in temporary premises. Among those already operating are the Independent Schools Foundation Academy, which moves to its new campus in Cyberport for the 2007-2008 academic year, and the Victoria Shanghai Academy, which is building its campus in Aberdeen, adjacent to the Canadian International School, also to be ready for next year. Both are already admitting students from primary through to the early secondary years.
The Independent Schools Foundation Academy, backed by several leading academics determined to see high quality, locally run schools, has grounded itself in its Chinese cultural heritage.