My son is in his last year of primary school. His levels in maths and English are just average. As a result, I don't think he will get into a top secondary school in Hong Kong. I am wondering whether I should send him to Toronto to live with his grandmother for his secondary school education. Do you think this would be best for him?
Education consultant Florence Robertson answers:
Before you decide, you need to talk to your son and his teachers to determine why his results are poor in English and mathematics.
Does he not understand the work or is he not putting enough time on his studies?
It would be disappointing if he did not get into a good secondary school in Hong Kong but you can't expect him to do better elsewhere if his study habits are weak at present.
Discuss with your son whether he thinks he doesn't understand the work or whether he isn't spending enough time on his homework.
If he feels he doesn't understand the work and as a result he can't do his homework, ask him to make an appointment with his teachers for extra help. It would be wise for you to meet his teachers to get their view on your son's progress and what you can do to help him improve.