Teacher turnover not a good sign for a stable learning environment in Hong Kong
- Concerns have been raised over the attrition rate of native English-speaking teachers in local schools
- With English language among the younger generation pivotal to the city’s future competitiveness, the Education Bureau and schools would do well to address any systemic issues inconducive to the retention of overseas teachers
Much has been said about the falling standard of English among Hong Kong’s younger generation. While it may take more studies to find out whether this is the case, continuous effort must be made to enhance the learning environment. This is not just about taking care of the needs of the pupils, but also those who teach them.
Concerns have been raised as the turnover rate of native English-speaking teachers (NETs) in local schools reached a record high in the last academic year. It rose from 11 per cent in 2021-22 to 18 per cent among primary schools last year, and from 13 per cent to 16 per cent among secondary schools. Only 828 teachers remain in the scheme, down from 852 in February last year.
Figures showed the attrition rates for the lower tier ranged from 11 to 16 per cent in the previous five years; while the range for secondary schools fluctuated between 8 to 13 per cent. Even though the figures are relatively higher when compared to those among local teachers, education officials are seemingly not concerned with what they see as a “largely stable” turnover over the years.
Introduced in 1998 amid concerns over the city’s falling standard of English, the scheme that brings in teachers who are native English speakers has the potential of benefiting more than just the pupils. The teachers, who have experience in other education systems, can also contribute to the local system. But the differences in culture and pedagogy have also resulted in integration issues and a relatively high turnover over the years.
3,500 Hong Kong teachers quit, cashing out HK$10 billion from provident fund
It is no secret that the education sector is suffering from a brain drain in the wake of the changing political and social environment in recent years. Adding to the concerns among the wider expatriate community is the pandemic and stringent health restrictions. The impact of the exodus is still being felt across society nowadays.
The departures are essentially personal choices involving a mix of factors. But a high turnover rate of NET teachers does not bode well for a stable learning environment for pupils. As the pandemic subsides, it would do well for the Education Bureau and schools to review and address any systemic issues inconducive to the retention of overseas teachers.
The English language proficiency among the younger generation is pivotal to the city’s competitiveness in future. As an international business hub, it is important that we maintain a conducive environment for people to learn and use the language. While the recruitment scheme for qualified native English-speaking teachers can help, the city must not lose sight of the need to enhance the standards of local English language teachers as well.
