Once the preserve of the children of top government officials or heirs to the business elite, an overseas education is now a viable choice for tens of thousands of Hong Kong families.
Australia, Britain, the US and Canada top the list of favoured destinations, but other options are growing in popularity, including New Zealand, Thailand and the mainland. Growing numbers of teenagers also choose to join a one-year exchange programme in the mainland, European nations or even more exotic countries.
There are many reasons Hong Kong parents choose to send their children to schools half a world away. The drive for a good command of English generally tops the list, along with the perception that it improves a student's chances of gaining entry into overseas universities. Rightly or wrongly, some parents feel unhappy with the local education system.
Spending time away from the comforts and security of home can motivate youngsters to develop their independence. Without being able to rely on the assistance of parents and other family members, children are forced to take care of their own needs and solve problems for themselves. This engenders self-reliance skills and a sense of resourcefulness that will serve them well in adult life.
But not all children enjoy being packed off to school in a distant land, particularly at a young age. The naturally outgoing will embrace the new experience, but less-confident youngsters may be pushed further into their shells.
Boarding schools in Britain and Australia have remarked that many Hong Kong students have been unprepared to do household chores, expecting to have things done for them. The reality is that in many traditional boarding institutions, students are very much expected to look after themselves.