Educational System in Hong Kong

Relocating to a new country can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to understanding the local educational system for your children. Hong Kong, known for its high educational standards, offers a diverse range of schooling options to cater to the needs of both local and expatriate families. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the educational system in Hong Kong, including the main stages of education, enrollment procedures, language requirements, public and private schooling options, and alternative education methods such as homeschooling and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Hong Kong?

The Hong Kong education system is divided into several stages: pre-primary education (kindergarten), primary education, secondary education, and tertiary education. Each stage has a specific focus and caters to different age groups, ensuring a well-rounded education for students.

Pre-primary Education (Kindergarten)

Pre-primary education in Hong Kong is for children aged 3 to 6. It focuses on fostering children's holistic development through a play-based curriculum that encourages creativity, social skills, and basic literacy and numeracy skills. Kindergartens in Hong Kong can be either private or government-funded.

Primary Education

Primary education in Hong Kong is for children aged 6 to 12. It consists of six grades, Primary 1 to Primary 6. The curriculum focuses on developing students' basic academic skills, personal and social development, and physical and aesthetic development. English and Chinese (Cantonese) are the main languages of instruction.

Secondary Education

Secondary education in Hong Kong is for students aged 12 to 18. It is divided into junior secondary (Form 1 to Form 3) and senior secondary (Form 4 to Form 6). The curriculum includes a broad range of subjects, with a focus on preparing students for the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) examination.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Newcomers can enroll their children in Hong Kong schools by applying directly to the school of their choice. The application process typically involves submitting an application form, supporting documents (such as passport, visa, and previous school reports), and an application fee. Some schools may also require an interview or entrance test.

My children are still learning Cantonese, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning Cantonese can enroll in public schools in Hong Kong. The government provides additional support for non-Chinese speaking students, including Chinese language courses and school-based support services. However, the main language of instruction in most public schools is Cantonese.

Are there public bilingual schools?

Yes, there are public bilingual schools in Hong Kong. These schools offer a curriculum taught in both English and Chinese (Cantonese or Mandarin). Admission for international students is based on a points system, taking into account factors such as the student's academic performance, language proficiency, and family's residential proximity to the school.

What types of private schools are common in Hong Kong?

Private schools in Hong Kong include international schools, religious schools (such as Catholic and Christian schools), and bilingual schools. International schools often follow a foreign curriculum (such as the British, American, or International Baccalaureate curriculum) and use English as the main language of instruction.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Many expats in Hong Kong choose to send their children to private international schools due to the language of instruction and the similarity of the curriculum to their home country. However, some expats also choose public schools for their children to immerse them in the local culture and language.

How expensive are Private schools in Hong Kong?

Private schools in Hong Kong can be quite expensive, with annual tuition fees ranging from HKD 70,000 to over HKD 200,000, depending on the school and grade level. Additional costs may include application fees, deposits, and charges for extra-curricular activities.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Hong Kong?

Yes, homeschooling is allowed in Hong Kong under certain conditions. Parents who wish to homeschool their children must apply for exemption from compulsory school attendance from the Education Bureau and provide a detailed homeschooling plan.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Hong Kong?

Yes, children can attend online schools while living in Hong Kong. However, parents should ensure that the online school is accredited and that the curriculum meets the educational standards of Hong Kong. It's also important to consider the social and emotional aspects of learning, which may be lacking in an online environment.