All at once, the pandemic has rooted us in our local communities, while also making us achingly aware of the scale of our planet. There’s never been a more poignant time to understand our roles as global citizens. At Hong Kong Academy, being a global citizen has always been central to the school’s ethos. But what does that mean in the real world, in the midst of a very real international health crisis? For starters, HKA walks the talk, offering programmes like the Global Citizen Diploma (GDC) and the IB. These globally minded curriculums are facilitated in a campus that is certified by BEAM Plus, the “green building” assessment initiative that’s tailored to Hong Kong’s high-density environment. We find out more below.
BIG MINDS
Global Citizen Diploma
The GCD is a high school credential offered by Hong Kong Academy, the only school in the city to offer this programme. It’s completed by all graduating students, along with the school’s HKA Diploma. The majority of students also choose to complete the IB Diploma Programme.
Through student-initiated projects and intentional reflection, the GCD offers students the chance to capture their personal journey, developing a deeper understanding of who they are and what they value.
By completing the GCD certificate, HKA students are able to provide evidence of their ethical character, self-directiveness and well-roundedness. It’s a practical portfolio for university applications.
GREEN SPACE
BEAMPlus Certified Campus
The team at HKA know that good global citizens are kind to their local environments and communities. Thoughtful campus design has played an important role in shaping the environment where the school’s students learn.
In late 2020, HKA achieved Gold BEAM Plus Certification for its innovative campus design. Attaining the certification involves independent assessments of building sustainability performance, encompassing water, energy, waste, procurement, business management, transport and wellbeing benefits.
Some highlights of HKA’s design include:
- the creation of a green roof and edible permaculture;
- waste reduction and recycling initiatives across the campus;
- compostable furniture;
- sourcing of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved materials;
- a displacement ventilation system in classrooms and public areas; and,
- floor-to-ceiling glass in learning areas to maximise natural light
A word from the school
At HKA, we believe that education is the key to creating a more equitable and sustainable world. Engaging with the GCD programme challenges each student to develop and express their identity and values beyond traditional academics – to know what they want for themselves and how they can act as responsible global citizens who positively contribute to society. – Teresa Tung, Secondary School Principal
Read more about the approach at hkacademy.edu.hk.
2655 1111 | office@hkacademy.edu.hk
This article first appeared in the Winter 2021 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
