My daughter attends an international primary school that seems to focus heavily on academic subjects. She is not very academic but has a flair for art and drama. Art is taught only once a week and drama very rarely unless there is a special performance for parents, which the teachers organise, rather than the students. Should I move her to a different school?
Teacher Julie McGuire replies:
Educational approaches and pedagogy tend to be cyclical. In recent years there has been a stronger focus on academic subjects in many schools. Although some teachers and managers understand the importance of the arts in a well-rounded education, pressures on the curriculum have left little time for these subjects.
It is a great shame if your daughter is not being given the opportunities to fully develop her talents. School drama performances are often prescriptive rather than creative, which may mean she is getting very little in the way of 'real' drama. If she is constantly struggling with academic subjects her self-esteem may suffer. It may be worthwhile looking at other schools if only to consider your options.
If you decide to visit some schools ask if they have specialist teachers for arts subjects as this may indicate that they hold an important place in the curriculum. Also find out about the time spent per week on the arts.
Check if there is space available for drama activities as this is often a problem for Hong Kong schools. Facilities such as the school hall tend to be tightly timetabled and although classrooms can be used it takes time to clear tables and chairs.