https://www.scmp.com/rss/326052/feed The Good Schools Guide is a comprehensive resource for parents in Hong Kong, focusing on international schools and parenting. It covers key topics such as curricula, fees and admissions, as well as broader educational trends, providing essential information to help parents make informed decisions about their child’s education. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard In recent months, families across Hong Kong have faced the difficult task of helping children process emotions resulting from the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, on top of a stream of unsettling news from around the world. Even children not directly affected may have seen images online, overheard adult conversations, or sensed anxiety at school and at home. Many parents struggle with how much to explain and how to respond to reactions that can seem unpredictable or confusing. “Children often... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3351775/how-parents-can-help-their-children-deal-grief-after-tai-po-tragedy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3351775/how-parents-can-help-their-children-deal-grief-after-tai-po-tragedy?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Apr 2026 22:00:13 +0000 Salomé Grouard Salomé Grouard French sociologist Émile Durkheim described the classroom as society’s “great workshop”: a place where collective values are forged and passed between generations. It is here that the core lessons of social life, acceptance of others and respect for differences, are meant to take root. For too many LGBTQ students in Hong Kong, however, reality has often fallen short of that ideal. Liam Mak, co-founder and co-director of Quarks, the city’s first support network for transgender youth, describes... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3350488/how-hong-kongs-students-and-educators-are-reshaping-lgbt-inclusivity-classrooms?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3350488/how-hong-kongs-students-and-educators-are-reshaping-lgbt-inclusivity-classrooms?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Apr 2026 22:00:14 +0000 Andrea Lo Andrea Lo Hong Kong’s international schools talk a great deal about preparing students for university. Increasingly, they are also building spaces with this in mind. Rather than functioning simply as a backdrop to academic programmes, the physical environment is envisioned as a tool to shape behaviour. In new campuses, students are encouraged to practise independence, engage in collaborative work and build the self-management skills they will need beyond school. Stamford American School’s West Kowloon... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3348636/how-hong-kong-schools-are-transforming-mirror-university-style-spaces?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3348636/how-hong-kong-schools-are-transforming-mirror-university-style-spaces?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Apr 2026 07:15:07 +0000 Sumnima Kandangwa Sumnima Kandangwa On World Obesity Day, March 4, Hong Kong launched its first three-year action plan on weight management targeting rising obesity rates. Citing a Report of Population Health Survey 2020–22 conducted by the Department of Health, the government noted that over 50 per cent of Hong Kong’s adult population is overweight or obese based on their Body Mass Index. “It’s heartening to see the government taking steps to build a healthy community that promotes nutrition education and regular exercise,” said... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3347273/hong-kong-governments-plan-answer-obesity-or-eating-disorder-risk?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3347273/hong-kong-governments-plan-answer-obesity-or-eating-disorder-risk?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Mar 2026 07:15:12 +0000 Erica Fong Erica Fong From the classroom to the parent-teacher meeting, when it comes to achievement, one question persists: is a child’s potential written in their genes, or can it be boosted by education? The debate around nature versus nurture is especially pertinent in the context of Hong Kong’s high-stakes academic milieu – one in which students may find themselves on a predetermined track in science or the arts, regardless of their own preferences or natural talents. Experts agree that a child’s potential is... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3345153/nature-versus-nurture-unlocking-potential-hong-kongs-children?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3345153/nature-versus-nurture-unlocking-potential-hong-kongs-children?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:56:50 +0000 Salomé Grouard Salomé Grouard Hong Kong’s education system is famously unforgiving. From cutthroat kindergarten admissions to hours of nightly homework and an average of five hours of private tutoring a week, children face tremendous pressure to perform in the world’s third most competitive economy. In such an environment, arts education rarely makes the cut – often dismissed as a luxury rather than a path to success. “Growing up, I had so many talented friends who gave up on art as they went through school,” says... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3343401/how-hong-kong-schools-and-artists-offgodtate-are-nurturing-creativity-ai-era?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3343401/how-hong-kong-schools-and-artists-offgodtate-are-nurturing-creativity-ai-era?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:00:10 +0000 Lynn Farah Lynn Farah For Hong Kong’s students, going to university is a defining moment, fraught with a complex calculus of personal passion, parental expectation and the perceived demands of a volatile job market. Yet, as educators and counsellors attest, the most successful path forward is not one of enforced compromise but of a more integrated way of thinking, merging practical experience with intellectual passion and purposeful career planning. From the experiential learning labs of City University of Hong Kong... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3342081/how-help-hong-kong-students-navigate-their-university-choices-and-career-paths?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3342081/how-help-hong-kong-students-navigate-their-university-choices-and-career-paths?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Feb 2026 07:34:13 +0000 Andrea Lo Andrea Lo Hong Kong has seen a striking rise in the number of students identified with special educational needs (SEN) over the past decade. There are nearly 60,000 SEN primary and secondary students in Hong Kong, more than double the number a decade ago, according to The Social and Emotional Support for SEN Children Adapting to Primary School Survey, a 2023 report by Hong Kong Christian Service. The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) alone among Hong Kong children aged six to 17 is now... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3340362/hong-kong-tackles-sen-technology-set-bigger-role-assessment-intervention?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3340362/hong-kong-tackles-sen-technology-set-bigger-role-assessment-intervention?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 19 Jan 2026 02:28:32 +0000 Gayatri Bhaumik Gayatri Bhaumik In an increasingly interconnected age, many parents in Hong Kong choose to enrol their children in international schools in the hope of giving them a more global perspective. These schools, often ranked among the city’s best, have long been lauded for promoting cultural diversity and international curricula that help mould young global citizens. Recently though, Hong Kong’s international schools have faced criticism for not fulfilling their mandates as they used to. Instead, detractors argue... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3337612/global-roots-or-local-realities-inside-hong-kongs-evolving-international-schools?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3337612/global-roots-or-local-realities-inside-hong-kongs-evolving-international-schools?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Jan 2026 22:00:18 +0000 Jacqueline Kot Jacqueline Kot Imagine a classroom with no walls, where instead, trees provide a natural border of sorts, and air conditioning and lights are replaced by fresh air, breezes and unfiltered sunlight. Where children are free to jump, climb and make a mess – all on a normal weekday at school. Outdoor learning has long been a popular concept in Scandinavia, with children encouraged to develop their critical thinking and learn about nature and biodiversity through play and activities in real-life settings. Some of... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3336911/hong-kong-forest-schools-are-embracing-risky-play-children-young-2?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3336911/hong-kong-forest-schools-are-embracing-risky-play-children-young-2?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:00:09 +0000 Sumnima Kandangwa Sumnima Kandangwa “I am Hugo, and I’m pretty sure I’m the first ever person in my family to get my brain rotted,” says Hugo Lee, a nine-year-old student at Lion’s Club International School in Tin Shui Wai. It might sound odd to boast about having a rotten brain, but Hugo and his classmate, 10-year-old Jesswin Kerung, proudly compete to list as many slang words as possible. They rattle off words that parents of toddlers and young teens may already know: “skibidi”, “rizz”, “negative aura”, and the hottest slang at... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3335175/decoding-gen-alphas-quirky-slang-skibidi-italian-brain-rot-and-6-7?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3335175/decoding-gen-alphas-quirky-slang-skibidi-italian-brain-rot-and-6-7?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:00:09 +0000 Erica Fong Erica Fong Long before public and private school systems existed, the world’s first classrooms were almost all faith-based – from European monasteries in the Middle Ages to schools that integrated religion with secular learning throughout the Reformation and Enlightenment. Today, faith-based schools – be they Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist, Jewish, Muslim or otherwise – continue to offer rigorous academics alongside moral and spiritual instruction, laying a foundation for learning that nurtures both... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3333661/does-faith-based-education-really-contribute-academic-excellence-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3333661/does-faith-based-education-really-contribute-academic-excellence-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Nov 2025 10:00:25 +0000 Douglas Parkes Douglas Parkes You’ve visited campuses, spoken to teachers, reviewed the curriculum and extracurriculars, and are happy with the academic results. You feel good about the community and have finally chosen the right school for your young child. Congratulations! The hardest part is over. Now for the next step: understanding the admissions assessment. Sometimes this is straightforward, but it can just as easily be an impenetrable fog. Phrases like “social-emotional development skills”, “numeracy, cognitive... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3330460/how-hong-kong-schools-are-taking-holistic-approach-student-assessment?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3330460/how-hong-kong-schools-are-taking-holistic-approach-student-assessment?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Oct 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard According to a 2024 survey by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, 45 per cent of students polled identified their stress levels between seven and 10. These results demonstrated the first increase in four years. With stress levels on the rise, so too are the physical and mental consequences. These can range between sleep disruptions, headaches, changes in appetite, irritability, withdrawal and feelings of hopelessness. On Monday, it was reported that an 11-year-old boy in Tuen Mun died... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3330206/under-pressure-rising-stress-crisis-among-hong-kong-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3330206/under-pressure-rising-stress-crisis-among-hong-kong-students?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:17:39 +0000 Lynn Farah Lynn Farah In a city that prizes academic achievement, Hong Kong’s educators are confronting an alarming disconnect: while their students rank among the world’s most technically proficient readers, they’ve become some of the most reluctant. The latest Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) painted a concerning picture, with Hong Kong’s Primary 4 pupils ranked 49th out of 57 regions for reading confidence, a startling contrast to their top-tier literacy scores. The 2021 study, conducted... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3329734/hong-kongs-reading-crisis-why-our-excellent-readers-have-little-love-books?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3329734/hong-kongs-reading-crisis-why-our-excellent-readers-have-little-love-books?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Oct 2025 22:20:08 +0000 Grace Brewer Grace Brewer For many parents in Hong Kong, securing a place for their child in a prestigious kindergarten is more than just an early educational milestone – it’s a decision that can lay the foundation for future academic success and, eventually, for career opportunities. Early admission into top kindergartens is increasingly viewed as the first crucial step in accessing elite primary and secondary schools, which in turn can serve as gateways to leading universities worldwide. Learning without... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3329348/getting-head-start-prestigious-kindergartens-hong-kong-can-lead-elite-education-and-successful?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3329348/getting-head-start-prestigious-kindergartens-hong-kong-can-lead-elite-education-and-successful?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Oct 2025 04:42:11 +0000 Gayatri Bhaumik Gayatri Bhaumik With Hong Kong’s array of schooling options, families in the city often spend huge amounts of time and effort trying to plot the best educational experience for their children. Would the local system or an international school be a better bet? Which curriculum would suit the child more? Would boarding school be the best choice in the family’s circumstances? In recent years, yet another educational choice has become increasingly popular: home-schooling. In Hong Kong, education is mandatory... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3328180/faced-hong-kongs-expensive-and-pressuring-schools-some-parents-home-school-instead?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3328180/faced-hong-kongs-expensive-and-pressuring-schools-some-parents-home-school-instead?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Oct 2025 03:15:44 +0000 Josiah Ng Josiah Ng Getting your child into an elite school or university is more competitive than ever. Good grades, meticulously curated extracurricular profiles and outstanding personal essays are just the start of a strong application. It can be difficult to know what else is required, particularly if your child is set on studying overseas. For parents who find the ins and outs of the admissions process daunting, seeking the professional help of a consultant may be the best course of action. More than just... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3327718/how-consultants-are-helping-parents-navigate-path-elite-school-admissions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3327718/how-consultants-are-helping-parents-navigate-path-elite-school-admissions?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 03 Oct 2025 10:15:08 +0000 Carmen Cao Carmen Cao Choosing the right international school in Hong Kong is a pivotal decision that shapes your child’s academic journey. With demand often exceeding the number of available places at leading institutions, proactive planning is essential. This guide aims to demystify the process, equipping parents with timelines, key criteria and actionable steps to secure their child’s place. Key selection criteria When navigating the admissions process, parents should consider several key criteria that influence... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3325836/ultimate-guide-international-school-admissions-hong-kong-parents?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3325836/ultimate-guide-international-school-admissions-hong-kong-parents?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Sep 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Amalissa Hall Amalissa Hall Nutrition and education are inherently interlinked. In March 2025, Unesco released the Education and Nutrition: Learn to Eat Well report, which underscores the “importance of school meals in the health and learning of children” and advocates for more food education and nutritious foods. The report found that in 2022, 27 per cent of school meals worldwide were not designed in consultation with nutritionists, and only 93 countries out of the 187 evaluated had legislation, standards or guidelines... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3325835/learning-eat-well-hong-kong-schools-stress-eating-meals-nourish-and-educate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3325835/learning-eat-well-hong-kong-schools-stress-eating-meals-nourish-and-educate?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 17 Sep 2025 22:15:11 +0000 John Cremer John Cremer After school’s out, what then? Hong Kong schools often highlight the duty and commitment they have to helping students develop their talents and find their own path in life. The evidence of that can be found in the personal stories and notable achievements of these alumni who have gone on to succeed in a variety of fields. Sarah Fleischer, tech entrepreneur German Swiss International School (GSIS), class of 2010 Since attending the German International Stream at GSIS between 2000 and 2004,... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3324907/5-trailblazing-hong-kong-school-alumni-who-have-excelled-globally-entrepreneurs-olympic-medalists?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3324907/5-trailblazing-hong-kong-school-alumni-who-have-excelled-globally-entrepreneurs-olympic-medalists?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Sep 2025 22:00:14 +0000 Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard It’s hardly breaking news that students everywhere are struggling with the amount of homework they are given. Hong Kong in particular is known to impose some of the heaviest expectations, and in 2022, the city’s education minister even felt it necessary to caution that homework should aid education rather than torment students. Homework’s intended purpose is to allow for knowledge developed within school to grow further and be cemented. “It is an essential element of a Malvernian education,... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317407/hong-kongs-great-homework-debate-how-much-too-much?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317407/hong-kongs-great-homework-debate-how-much-too-much?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 17 Aug 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Ruth Benny Ruth Benny Navigating the maze of schools in Hong Kong’s competitive education scene is no small feat. As an education consultant with more than 13 years’ experience steering families through this high-stakes journey, as well as many years of being a teacher before that, I’ve seen the process spark everything from blind hope to sheer panic. Yet, the secret to finding the perfect school is deceptively simple: it all hinges on a conversation: real, human interactions that provide a window into a school’s... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3321839/school-admissions-expert-ruth-benny-says-choosing-school-best-done-face-face?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3321839/school-admissions-expert-ruth-benny-says-choosing-school-best-done-face-face?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:21:27 +0000 Jolene Otremba Jolene Otremba In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving job markets, fostering creativity in secondary education is essential not only for academic success but also for developing the leaders of tomorrow. For this reason, educators today are advocating for creativity to be seen as a vital tool applicable across multiple disciplines. “Creativity is a skill, not a talent. Therefore, it can be taught and learned,” explains Shaun Porter, principal (international programme) at Dalton School... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317398/how-hong-kongs-secondary-schools-are-fostering-creativity-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317398/how-hong-kongs-secondary-schools-are-fostering-creativity-students?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 03 Aug 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard Stephen Graham’s Netflix series Adolescence received universal acclaim from critics on its release in March this year. The British drama tells the story of a family whose seemingly ordinary existence is thrown into turmoil when their teenage son is accused of murder. What unfolds is a deep dive into the dangers of social media, toxic masculinity and misogyny. While entirely fictional, the drama had viewers and critics alike commenting on the realistic depiction of the worrying threats facing... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3319456/hit-netflix-series-adolescence-raises-key-questions-about-shaping-masculine-identities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3319456/hit-netflix-series-adolescence-raises-key-questions-about-shaping-masculine-identities?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Jul 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Grace Brewer Grace Brewer If you’re a parent in 2025, you’ll have had a hard time avoiding the term “gentle parenting”. Whether it’s showing up on your social media feed or being demonstrated at play dates, gentle parenthood seems to be the hot topic in parenting circles this year. But what exactly is it? What principles does it stem from? And most importantly, does it work? All families are different, from their multiple personalities and varied family structures, to the different needs and schedules of parents and... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3319937/experts-hong-kong-discuss-why-gentle-parenting-trending-and-why-it-may-be-useful-local-families?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3319937/experts-hong-kong-discuss-why-gentle-parenting-trending-and-why-it-may-be-useful-local-families?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:48:11 +0000 Gayatri Bhaumik Gayatri Bhaumik Deciding on an educational path can be confusing for parents, with myriad considerations making choosing schools seem an insurmountable task. Which education system or curriculum is best? Would a public, private or international institution be most appropriate? And what about day schools versus boarding schools? Then, further complicating the issue, is the choice between coed and single-sex schools. In Hong Kong, single-sex schools were established in the late 19th century, mostly by missionary... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317390/how-choose-between-single-sex-vs-coed-schools-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317390/how-choose-between-single-sex-vs-coed-schools-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 20 Jul 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Jacqueline Kot Jacqueline Kot The school holidays are a time of rest from school, where children can sleep past their alarm, indulge in more screen time than usual, and spend more time on their hobbies. However, much like a muscle, the brain needs exercise as well and too much down time will make it harder for children to bounce back to regular programming once school starts. On top of that, the two-month summer holidays are also a chance for children to gain experiences outside the classroom environment that can be fun and... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3318234/esf-explore-and-sports-and-theatre-camps-help-students-make-most-holidays?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3318234/esf-explore-and-sports-and-theatre-camps-help-students-make-most-holidays?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 15 Jul 2025 22:15:09 +0000 Jolene Otremba Jolene Otremba In today’s rapidly evolving world, the role of education is being redefined. Technological advancements, economic shifts and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) have presented new challenges – and opportunities – for educators worldwide. International schools in Hong Kong are leading the charge in equipping students with the skills, mindsets and adaptability needed to thrive in an uncertain future. By combining rigorous academics with innovative programmes, these institutions are setting... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317364/how-hong-kong-schools-are-reshaping-ib-programmes-better-prepare-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3317364/how-hong-kong-schools-are-reshaping-ib-programmes-better-prepare-students?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Jul 2025 22:15:07 +0000 Ben Young Ben Young Before ChatGPT and large language models (LLMs) rose to prominence, many believed that STEM-related skills like coding and data analytics would lead to some of the safest and most lucrative career paths. But with artificial intelligence (AI) already capable of doing some of these jobs close to the level of a trained human professional for a fraction of the time and cost, it’s possible that soft skills like creativity and communication will be the best way for students to distinguish themselves... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3316938/how-hong-kong-schools-are-preparing-students-evolving-technological-landscape?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3316938/how-hong-kong-schools-are-preparing-students-evolving-technological-landscape?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 06 Jul 2025 22:00:21 +0000 John Cremer John Cremer Some children have a natural aptitude for art or music or perhaps tennis, and in the classroom environment it soon becomes clear which of them are academically gifted. Those talents may be evident in any number of ways: a facility for languages, speed in solving maths problems, or even a special fascination with a non-curricular subject like astronomy. Within Hong Kong’s already competitive education system, class teachers do all they can to encourage and nurture this potential. But sometimes... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3315497/nurturing-gifted-students-hong-kong-schools-special-programmes-brilliant-young-minds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3315497/nurturing-gifted-students-hong-kong-schools-special-programmes-brilliant-young-minds?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:15:08 +0000 Amalissa Hall Amalissa Hall Social media is pervasive in the lives of adults and adolescents alike: beyond simply being communication and image-sharing platforms, the likes of Instagram, YouTube and Facebook have become sources of news, information and entertainment, and are so integrated into daily life that they can be hard to disengage from. A US-based study from 2016 revealed how the addictive use of social media platforms and video games correlated with mental health disorders, and technology since has only further... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3313328/tackling-social-medias-impact-teens-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3313328/tackling-social-medias-impact-teens-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Jun 2025 22:00:14 +0000 Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard Hong Kong’s reputation as a city of high-achieving students continues to be well deserved, with the results of the 2023/24 Hong Kong Outstanding Students Award released in a ceremony held earlier this year, on January 11. Organised by the Youth Arch Foundation and supported by the Lion & Globe Education Trust, the Hong Kong Outstanding Students Award was established in 1985. To date, it has celebrated the academic prowess, involvement in extracurricular activities, and achievements in community... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3311490/celebrating-stellar-achievements-hong-kongs-outstanding-secondary-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3311490/celebrating-stellar-achievements-hong-kongs-outstanding-secondary-students?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 25 May 2025 22:00:15 +0000 John Cremer John Cremer The wonders of space exploration have always held a special thrill, and for some fortunate Hong Kong youngsters the chance to learn up-close about the science and operations behind a successful mission is no longer an improbable dream. Thanks to a number of exciting initiatives, it is now possible to sign up for “astronaut training”, an eye-opening and character-building experience for every person who takes part. The key elements typically include sessions to explain the principles of space... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3309586/stars-junior-astronaut-training-programmes-spark-interest-space-young-age?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3309586/stars-junior-astronaut-training-programmes-spark-interest-space-young-age?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 May 2025 22:00:46 +0000 Erica Fong Erica Fong Maths on Monday, taekwondo on Tuesday, piano lessons on Wednesday, creative writing on Thursday and swimming on Saturday. No, this isn’t a schedule of activities offered at your local community centre, but a typical week of extracurriculars for a student in Hong Kong on top of their regular academic curriculum, usually planned by a so-called “tiger parent” or “helicopter parent”. Used to describe parents who are too strict, protective and intensely involved in their children’s lives – with an... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3304727/are-hong-kongs-tiger-parents-harming-their-childrens-futures-pushing-them-too-hard?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3304727/are-hong-kongs-tiger-parents-harming-their-childrens-futures-pushing-them-too-hard?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 27 Apr 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Whether you are a child or adult, it can often feel like there are not enough hours in a day to achieve that ideal ratio of work, play and relaxation. But while adults have the freedom to rebel against the clock by staying up later than planned to scroll through social media or binge watch TV, it is important that children get enough sleep so they are well rested for a day of learning at school. “Sleep plays a crucial role in brain development. During sleep, particularly during the deep stages,... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3304724/your-child-not-getting-enough-sleep-look-out-signs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3304724/your-child-not-getting-enough-sleep-look-out-signs?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 13 Apr 2025 22:15:08 +0000 Every parent faces a dilemma when it comes to the amount of screen time that their children can have. On one hand, it is crucial that children are IT literate to be able to thrive at school and – later in life – in the workforce. On the other hand, too much screen time can have negative effects on children’s mental and physical well-being. So where’s the line? From the benefits of technology to help a child learn, to what happens when children are allowed unfettered use of their devices, and how... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3304209/finding-balance-where-draw-line-your-childrens-screen-time?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3304209/finding-balance-where-draw-line-your-childrens-screen-time?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Mar 2025 22:15:15 +0000 Students across East Asia are typically seen as diligent, smart and high-achieving, as Pisa scores show, but they also face overwhelming pressure to perform from parents, educational systems and society at large, and this can have impacts on their health. A recent study in Hong Kong found that more than 90 per cent of students were getting less than the 60 minutes of exercise per day recommended by the World Health Organization. “This is due, in part, to the heavy emphasis parents place on their... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3303649/hong-kong-schools-are-striving-healthier-balance-promoting-exercise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3303649/hong-kong-schools-are-striving-healthier-balance-promoting-exercise?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Mar 2025 10:00:52 +0000 Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard A study conducted by the University of Cambridge in 2013 concluded that financial habits are established in children by the age of seven. Over time, these habits can become ingrained and carry into our adult lives. The researchers argued for making financial education an essential component of the British national curriculum. While the Cambridge research is firmly rooted in British contexts, there are lessons for children across the world. Murray Forest, Western co-principal of primary at Yew... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3298938/how-international-schools-are-preparing-students-make-right-financial-decisions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3298938/how-international-schools-are-preparing-students-make-right-financial-decisions?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Feb 2025 04:25:08 +0000 Gayatri Bhaumik Gayatri Bhaumik As the new academic year begins, parents, pupils and teachers are gathering supplies and planning for the year ahead. Amid the back-to-school rush, parents may find it useful to consider how they can work closely with schools to help their child achieve their goals – academic or otherwise – over the coming year. “Parents will observe their child’s unique capabilities at home and teachers will observe different, even contrasting, capabilities in school,” says Hannah Tait, head of EYFS (Early... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3298937/how-parents-and-schools-can-work-together-boost-students-progress-field-trips-talks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3298937/how-parents-and-schools-can-work-together-boost-students-progress-field-trips-talks?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Feb 2025 03:18:09 +0000 Jacqueline Kot Jacqueline Kot From the cognitive to the cultural, the varied benefits of raising multilingual children are well known. For parents who wish to go beyond home immersion and see this incorporated into a child’s school curriculum, the International Schools Guide lists many of the institutions in Hong Kong that have made multilingualism a key part of their proposition. While in practice all international schools across the city teach other languages in addition to English, the schools listed below make... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3295815/how-hong-kong-schools-offering-bilingual-education-are-fostering-global-citizens?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3295815/how-hong-kong-schools-offering-bilingual-education-are-fostering-global-citizens?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:15:07 +0000 Erica Fong Erica Fong Traditionally, academic performance has been the key indicator of success for students in Asia, leading many young learners to put physical education (PE) – and consequently, their health – on the back burner in favour of a more studious and sedentary lifestyle in front of textbooks or computers. However, things may now be changing for students in Hong Kong, especially for those with an aptitude for sport. Just two months ago, the Education Bureau (EDB) proposed a revised grading mechanism... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3295814/why-physical-education-taking-hong-kong-schools-linsanity-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3295814/why-physical-education-taking-hong-kong-schools-linsanity-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:15:07 +0000 Change is a natural part of growing up, but some transitions can be particularly challenging especially for students facing a new school year, a new school environment, moving to a different country, or making the leap from primary to secondary school. These experiences can often be overwhelming and leave students feeling intimidated as they encounter new routines, expectations and social dynamics. It is for these reasons that educators have long touted the importance of managing transitions in... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3295220/taking-out-stress-how-schools-innovative-support-systems-are-helping-students-cope-transition?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3295220/taking-out-stress-how-schools-innovative-support-systems-are-helping-students-cope-transition?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:24:58 +0000 All students require some level of support to maximise their potential and this is no less true for students with special educational needs (SEN). However, the type and amount of assistance SEN students require can differ substantially, which is why schools offering specialised and personalised services are essential. A recent survey by the Hong Kong Christian Service found that there are nearly 60,000 SEN students in the city, a figure that has doubled in the last 10 years. The Education Bureau... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3294230/support-special-education-needs-has-improved-hong-kong-schools-more-has-be-done?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3294230/support-special-education-needs-has-improved-hong-kong-schools-more-has-be-done?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Jan 2025 08:12:25 +0000 Hong Kong is well known for its densely packed population, but one place that may be less crammed than usual next year is kindergarten. Due to long-declining birth rates, figures suggest that the territory’s kindergartens expect to face a significant enrolment dip in 2025, after a record low birth rate in 2022. Only 32,500 newborns were recorded that year compared to 33,200 babies in 2023 – the second lowest number on record since data became available in 1960. According to Felix Yan Ho-on,... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3293311/why-international-kindergartens-are-bucking-wider-trend-school-closures-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3293311/why-international-kindergartens-are-bucking-wider-trend-school-closures-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 03 Jan 2025 09:08:39 +0000 Much thought and planning now goes into the design of classroom environments as it is important to create the right blend of social and instructional elements to spark interest and curiosity in young learners. Some items have become standard – colours, flexible spaces, quiet areas and a choice of toys to use at break time. But while giving children the opportunity to start exploring their potential and learn about the world around them, each school also has to keep things fresh and move with the... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3291216/revolutionising-classroom-spaces-how-schools-are-using-better-designs-encourage-learning?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3291216/revolutionising-classroom-spaces-how-schools-are-using-better-designs-encourage-learning?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 26 Dec 2024 23:00:09 +0000 Hong Kong’s international schools have much to be proud of – from their world-leading academic achievements to their reputation around the world. But outside academia, schools across the city are finding other causes for celebration. In recent years many of the city’s schools have been turning their attention to charitable endeavours and giving back to their local communities. Hong Kong International School (HKIS) is one such institution. “We aim to learn, listen, connect, empower and serve as... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3291214/how-hong-kong-schools-are-going-beyond-academics-help-students-cultivate-charitable-spirit?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3291214/how-hong-kong-schools-are-going-beyond-academics-help-students-cultivate-charitable-spirit?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 19 Dec 2024 23:00:11 +0000 Hong Kong’s leading schools have long been a great example of cultural diversity, celebrating different traditions and beliefs with a constant whirl of activities throughout the year. For many of these events, the focus is understandably on fun, with costumes and performances, perhaps an exchange of gifts, and the chance to cook and taste special foods associated with each festival. However, beyond that there is also a more serious purpose: the importance of learning about other countries and... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3290664/how-hong-kong-schools-are-promoting-cultural-diversity-and-understanding-through-shared-celebrations?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3290664/how-hong-kong-schools-are-promoting-cultural-diversity-and-understanding-through-shared-celebrations?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Dec 2024 07:27:45 +0000 Any parent who has watched their child perform in a ballet recital or score a goal in football or hockey knows the joy that extracurricular activities can bring to both the child and their family. But finding the right activities, and the right number of them, can be a challenge, especially as many of them require the entire family to invest significant time and effort, on top of the financial cost, to manage and maintain. “While school programming typically provides comprehensive and holistic... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3289723/how-best-manage-your-childs-time-and-pick-best-extracurricular-activities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3289723/how-best-manage-your-childs-time-and-pick-best-extracurricular-activities?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 10:03:53 +0000 The past few years have shown explosive levels of growth in education technology. With Covid-19 forcing schools into remote learning protocols, followed by the emergence of AI Large Language Models (LLMs), Hong Kong schools have had no choice but to adapt and respond to these unique sets of challenges. Many top schools have used this time as an opportunity for growth and for forging new partnerships. A notable example is Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS), which became one of two... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3288519/embracing-ai-robots-drones-and-other-ed-tech-classroom-means-teachers-learning-too?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3288519/embracing-ai-robots-drones-and-other-ed-tech-classroom-means-teachers-learning-too?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 29 Nov 2024 02:00:18 +0000