Hong Kong's traditional matriculation exam system is facing a major challenge as more schools are adopting a western style of teaching to broaden the range of students' skills in order to match international standards.
The Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination, to be abolished in a few years' time to fit in a new six-year secondary and four-year university education system, is losing its appeal to a new teaching approach known as International Baccalaureate (IB).
The IB diploma allows students to study six subjects - three at higher level and three at standard level - from experimental sciences, arts, mathematics and computer sciences, individuals and societies, to literature and language. The IB curriculum also requires students to follow a theory of knowledge course, complete an extended essay, and participate in creativity, action and service.
'IB emphasises the application of knowledge to understanding and serving the world,' said Sherrill Shiu, principal of Victoria Shanghai Academy (Hong Kong).
The academy is the first and only IB world school in Hong Kong authorised to provide a 'through-train' IB education. It takes pride in having recruited experienced staff.
The academy will be offering the IB diploma programme for 50 students from next month. All local students who have finished their HKCEE with a minimum of 14 points are eligible.
Candidates need to present their secondary school transcripts and go through an admissions interview. They will also be given written tests in Chinese and English.