Choosing the Right Secondary School

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With so many curriculum frameworks and schools in Hong Kong, it is often challenging for parents to distinguish one curriculum from another. Parents also need to consider how the curriculum they choose might translate when moving to another school or country. Stamford American School Hong Kong, recently accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and authorized by the International Baccalaureate for the Diploma Program (IBDP), is unique in Hong Kong as it offers an American standards-based curriculum, taught with an inquiry-based approach and the latest progressive educational practices. Curriculum Coordinator Michael Galligan, who has been in this role at Stamford in Singapore and Hong Kong, shares what makes Stamford's approach unique.

Why use the American standards-based curriculum?

When we look at the skills students need to succeed in the IBDP, we have found that the American standards at each grade level provide clear preparation, especially in terms of rigor in English and math. We feel confident that students are learning the appropriate knowledge, skills, and concepts at each grade level, so their learning journey happens step by step, not sudden leaps. The inquiry approach encourages students to actively engage in the learning process and develop attitudes toward learning that will lead to success.

Can students transfer to and from Stamford if the curriculum is different?

When students are in their final years of secondary school, transferring becomes more challenging in terms of credit translation and curriculum. However, at other grade levels, students must develop their core habits as learners and have a strong English and math base for specific career paths. Like any change of school or job, there is always an adjustment period, but international schools are well-resourced to support that. The IBDP has grown by 33% in the past four years, this implies that students with the experiences of such learning approaches and attitudes will be well-positioned not only for universities but also to relocate to top schools worldwide. The emphasis is less on what a student is learning and more on how they are learning—their attitude and mindset about learning.