Closed … open … closed … It’s been a topsy-turvy ride for students, teachers and school communities this year. But the way everyone has adapted to change under very trying circumstances is super impressive. Thankfully, there’s always plenty to look forward to on the educational journey. From new schools to new facilities and curriculums, here are just a few of the latest developments in schools in Hong Kong and abroad!
A Campus Revamp
When students are able to return to the Canadian International School of Hong Kong campus, some areas will look unrecognisable, following extensive renovations that took place during the summer holiday. For example, the school’s main cafeteria underwent a full revamp; it includes a new seating area, serving stations and a fully renovated back kitchen, which allows cafeteria staff to serve food that’s freshly made and locally sourced when possible. Meanwhile, the classrooms serving Grade 5 and 6 students have a completely different architectural layout; an open-plan design and breakout spaces contribute to the updated, modern feel. These renovations are all part of the school’s strategic plan.
New at Woodlands
Gazel Razavi is the newest face at Woodland PreSchools, having been appointed as the group’s General Manager. With extensive experience in education in Hong Kong, Gazel will be leading the school community on the new “Woodland Journey”. For ages six months to six years, the Woodland Journey carefully builds upon earlier stages to support each child’s natural dispositions and curiosities. The aim is to enable them to move on to primary education equipped with the tools and skills that they need to succeed: a love of learning, independence and self-confidence.
Good News for Little Learners!
Hong Kong’s largest French and International preschool Les Petits Lascars is now admitting students for 2020/21. The school offers preschool education for ages nine months to six years, either in French, in line with the French National Education system, or in bilingual (French/English) or trilingual (French/English/Mandarin) options. The school also provides an international stream, with progression to the International Baccalaureate. Classes operate on the model of the French school year, from September to June.
For more information, visit www.lespetitelascars.com.
Application Time!
Malvern College Hong Kong and Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong are happy to announce their first phase of application timelines for 2021/2022. The application deadline is 9 October; interviews for Malvern College will be on or before 14 November, and observation sessions for Malvern College Pre-School will be on or before 6 November.
For more information, visit malverncollege.org.hk.
Join the ESF Family
For over 50 years, ESF has been nurturing talent and preparing young men and women to be tomorrow’s global leaders. Former students of the group’s 22 schools can be found worldwide; in the words of the ESF team, “alumni from those schools have been helping to shape our world for decades”. Applications for the new school year for K1 (born in 2018), Year 1 (born in 2016) and Year 7 (born in 2010) are open from 1 September. Don’t miss out! You can also join ESF’s upcoming parent webinars to learn more; see esf.edu.hk/parentseminars or visit esf.edu.hk/esf-admissions for more info.
Planning Ahead
Hong Kong Academy (HKA) is now accepting applications for the 2021-22 school year. There are spaces available in all grade levels and the school is open for individual family tours. Contact admissions@hkacademy.edu.hk to learn more about the school’s exceptional programmes and arrange a visit.
Admissions Advice
Hong Kong-based education consultancy Top Schools is extending its reach, launching in both Singapore and the UK. That’s good news for parents based in Asia who are considering a school either in Hong Kong or these two additional sought-after locations. Top Schools has been working with HK families since 2012, making a name for itself through a thorough and personalised approach. Contact the team for a no-obligation chat.
A Fabulous Virtual Tour
For a great insight into the campus of St Peters Lutheran College, a co-educational day and boarding school in Brisbane, Queensland, visit the school website for a virtual tour. St Peters has a proud boarding tradition that goes back to 1945; it’s currently home to over 150 boarding students from Years 7 to 12. The school provides a wide range of educational, social, sporting, cultural and co-curricular opportunities, many of which can be glimpsed as you take the online tour. Try it now at stpeters.youtour.com.au.
Singapore Schooling
Travel restrictions are making overseas school visits a difficult proposition right now. So, St Joseph’s Institution International Elementary School in Singapore is welcoming prospective families to explore its offering through a Virtual Coffee Morning on 16 September. According to the SJII team, you’ll hear from school leaders about how children are thriving in the inclusive and diverse community, find out about the world-class curriculum and robust character education programme, and learn more about the multiple co-curricular, outdoor and service learning experiential opportunities available throughout the school year. You’ll be sent a link to join the Coffee Morning prior to the date.
Register today at sji-international.com.sg.
Boarding by the Beach
St Hilda’s School is an Anglican day school and boarding school for girls from Pre-Preparatory to Year 12. It’s located on Queensland’s beautiful Gold Coast. Studies here go hand in hand with access to stunning Aussie beaches, rainforests, a vibrant CBD and major sporting events. For over a century, St Hilda’s has been providing an outstanding environment for girls’ education, and a caring, community life for more than 170 boarders from Years 6 to 12, representing families from rural Australia, interstate and overseas.
For more information, email enrolments@sthildas.qld.edu.au or visit sthildas.qld.edu.au.
This article first appeared in the Autumn 2020 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
