https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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-v2.i-scmp.com/production/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg Nicole Hurip Nicole Hurip For new families and those arriving in Hong Kong for the first time, the school search can feel both exciting and overwhelming. The city offers a wide range of choices in four broad streams: government and aided local schools, Direct Subsidy Scheme schools, private independent schools and a large international sector. Local schools are the backbone of Hong Kong’s education system. Government and aided schools are publicly funded, generally follow the Hong Kong curriculum and lead to the Hong... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3367800/choosing-school-hong-kong-local-dss-private-and-international-options?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3367800/choosing-school-hong-kong-local-dss-private-and-international-options?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Sep 2026 00:00:15 +0000 Jacqueline Kot Jacqueline Kot The school website and other marketing materials provide comprehensive information, but it is during the school tour when parents get a true understanding and experience of the institution and whether it is a good fit for their child. Below is a checklist of questions and key points to keep in mind when attending a school open day. 1. The learning environment In addition to knowing what type of curriculum the school follows and fully understanding it, you can use the opportunity to find out more... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3367797/school-open-day-checklist-key-questions-parents-should-ask?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3367797/school-open-day-checklist-key-questions-parents-should-ask?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Sep 2026 23:00:05 +0000 John Cremer John Cremer When choosing a school in Hong Kong, families have a wealth of information at their disposal outlining everything from curriculum content and pathways to language options, clubs, community activities and educational philosophy. However, amid all these considerations, it generally comes down to one key question: not is this the best school by reputation or results, but is it the right place for this child? As both parents and teachers are well aware, finding a good fit takes time and thought. It... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3367795/why-one-familys-perfect-school-may-not-be-quite-right-another-child?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3367795/why-one-familys-perfect-school-may-not-be-quite-right-another-child?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Sep 2026 22:00:07 +0000 Heidi Yeung Heidi Yeung As our world becomes over-saturated with increasingly unattainable beauty standards showcased by celebrity and influencer culture, it’s getting harder to look in the mirror and like what looks back. Today’s teenagers and preteens are no strangers to this pressure. While there’s no way to pinpoint one single cause, the trajectory between what young people see online and the effects this can have on behaviour is well documented. According to a 2025 study in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, a... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3362125/sephora-kids-and-social-media-how-protect-hong-kong-teens-appearance-anxiety?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3362125/sephora-kids-and-social-media-how-protect-hong-kong-teens-appearance-anxiety?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Aug 2026 06:00:13 +0000 Jacqueline Kot Jacqueline Kot Digital literacy is as essential for children today as languages and maths, and it’s no secret that AI has changed how students approach their studies. But reliance on AI and other technology can affect the development of crucial soft skills in children. “The skills most under pressure are patience, sustained attention, critical thinking and contemplation,” says Ryan Stevenson, co-founder and director of Bright Heart Education, a UK-based tutoring agency. “These all require time, whereas AI can... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3362111/why-music-and-handwriting-are-antidotes-ai-education?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3362111/why-music-and-handwriting-are-antidotes-ai-education?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:00:07 +0000 Salomé Grouard Salomé Grouard Picture a birthday party. Children gather around a tablet, feeding a group photo into an app that makes everyone dance in silly hats and sing along. Or a family gathering, where a black-and-white picture of grandparents is uploaded into the same app, “reviving” them as young adults. It looks fun, harmless. But according to Home Security Heroes, one in three of these apps can also generate pornographic content. The US-based identity theft protection company found in its 2023 State of Deepfakes... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361352/deepfake-dangers-how-can-hong-kong-schools-protect-students-image-abuse?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361352/deepfake-dangers-how-can-hong-kong-schools-protect-students-image-abuse?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 31 Jul 2026 06:00:14 +0000 Salomé Grouard Salomé Grouard Backflips, breakdancing, dynamic beats and speed records. If you haven’t set foot inside a school gymnasium lately, you might be surprised to learn that these are not scenes from a dance battle, but the reality of competitive rope skipping. “This year, I wanted to challenge myself with a very upbeat song to push my speed and try new tricks, so I picked a J-pop track,” says Kaylie Wong, a rising star of Hong Kong’s rope skipping scene who’s been training since the age of seven. In 2023 and 2025,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361345/hong-kong-teens-soar-success-competitive-rope-skipping-takes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361345/hong-kong-teens-soar-success-competitive-rope-skipping-takes?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 28 Jul 2026 06:00:07 +0000 John Cremer John Cremer The idea of “micro-credentials” may be relatively new in the world of education, but the value of giving students the chance to gain recognition and awards for accomplishments outside the bounds of the formal academic curriculum has never been in doubt. The aim, of course, is to encourage interest and involvement in a range of activities, developing useful skills and individual talents, while also emphasising the importance of collaboration and the simple joy of learning. The direct reward may... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3354514/how-schools-use-micro-credentials-reward-non-academic-learning?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3354514/how-schools-use-micro-credentials-reward-non-academic-learning?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Jul 2026 00:00:09 +0000 John Cremer John Cremer Though exam scores remain the prime gauge of success in Hong Kong’s education system, both local and international schools still see the vital importance of letting students express their creative talents through art-themed activities and hands-on involvement. To that end, there are increasing instances of outside professionals being engaged as artists-in-residence or leaders of one-off projects where they teach skills and techniques, offer guidance, give encouragement and inspire new ways of... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361212/how-hong-kong-schools-are-harnessing-art-boost-students-creativity-and-confidence?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361212/how-hong-kong-schools-are-harnessing-art-boost-students-creativity-and-confidence?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:00:07 +0000 Amanda Sheppard Amanda Sheppard The school counsellor’s office has long been a familiar fixture of student well-being, providing a safe, quiet space for private and often sensitive conversations. But for a generation raised on online gaming worlds, chatbots and digital identities, that model is no longer the only pathway to emotional support. Across Hong Kong, educators and researchers are experimenting with what some describe as ‘third spaces’ for mental health – environments that sit somewhere between formal face-to-face... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361197/how-hong-kongs-schools-are-embracing-ai-gen-alphas-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3361197/how-hong-kongs-schools-are-embracing-ai-gen-alphas-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Jul 2026 07:00:08 +0000 Nicole Hurip Nicole Hurip In a city where raising a child to adulthood can cost around HK$6 million (US$765,426) – according to a survey by a leading local bank – Hong Kong’s HK$20,000 baby bonus was always going to struggle to change behaviour at scale. The three‑year Newborn Baby Bonus, introduced in late 2023 as part of a wider fertility strategy, is set to end this October and has paid out nearly HK$1.4 billion to close to 70,000 applicants. Yet births remain at near historic lows, with just over 31,000 babies born... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3360879/hong-kongs-baby-bonus-fails-boost-births-so-what-do-parents-really-want?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3360879/hong-kongs-baby-bonus-fails-boost-births-so-what-do-parents-really-want?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 18 Jul 2026 04:00:10 +0000 Jolene Otremba Jolene Otremba The fundamental question,” says Kasson Bratton, head of school at Hong Kong Academy (HKA), “is what’s the purpose of a school, and is the purpose of the school a number or more than a number?” Every July, Hong Kong’s International Baccalaureate (IBDP) results arrive with predictable intensity. Average point scores are published. Perfect 45s are celebrated. Comparisons with the global mean circulate quickly among parents. In a city that values measurable achievement, a high IB average offers... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3360447/beyond-numbers-why-hong-kongs-ib-averages-mask-deeper-truths?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3360447/beyond-numbers-why-hong-kongs-ib-averages-mask-deeper-truths?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Jul 2026 08:00:08 +0000 Erica Fong Erica Fong When Christ’s Hospital School in England established the first uniform in 1552 – still worn by its students today – its long blue coat and yellow stockings were a badge of belonging for the underprivileged children that the institution originally served. Over time, that function was subverted. Uniforms became associated with the upper classes as private and preparatory schools adopted them and made them more formal. At Eton College, arguably Britain’s most prestigious school, students wore black... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3354500/how-hong-kong-international-schools-decide-their-dress-codes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3354500/how-hong-kong-international-schools-decide-their-dress-codes?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 11 Jul 2026 04:00:08 +0000 Sumnima Kandangwa Sumnima Kandangwa From online shopping and automated Octopus top-ups to digital red packets during Chinese New Year, Hong Kong’s youngest generation has grown up in a world where money is increasingly invisible. Meanwhile, spending has become more convenient for the young digital natives who are always one Instagram scroll away from the next must-have Labubu-like blindbox toy. Gen Alpha – kids born between 2010 and 2024 – is also influencing household spending earlier than previous generations. A 2025 report by... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3359952/how-hong-kongs-gen-alpha-learning-be-smart-money?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3359952/how-hong-kongs-gen-alpha-learning-be-smart-money?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:12 +0000 Gayatri Bhaumik Gayatri Bhaumik Once limited to expats and high-income families, Hong Kong’s top international schools are now welcoming talented local students from diverse backgrounds by offering financial aid. For those who can meet rigorous academic standards, a world-class education is now within reach. But how do these programmes work and what impact are they having on the beneficiaries and the schools? Scholarship programmes differ greatly from school to school. Students must demonstrate academic aptitude and meet the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351154/talent-over-tuition-how-hong-kong-schools-are-broadening-access-high-quality-education?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351154/talent-over-tuition-how-hong-kong-schools-are-broadening-access-high-quality-education?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:00:05 +0000 Jacqueline Kot Jacqueline Kot For students who choose to pursue competitive sport during their secondary school years, careful attention needs to be paid by parents, teachers and coaches to help them weigh the two commitments of schoolwork and sport effectively. Get the balance right and student athletes can follow their passion without sacrificing academic responsibilities and other facets of their lives. “The single most important point is intentional prioritisation,” says Jake Carey, the athletic director at American... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351137/how-student-athletes-can-balance-sports-and-schoolwork-and-avoid-burnout?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351137/how-student-athletes-can-balance-sports-and-schoolwork-and-avoid-burnout?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:00:09 +0000 Sumnima Kandangwa Sumnima Kandangwa Annie, a Year 12 student in the English International Stream at German Swiss International School (GSIS), describes her ideal future career. “My dream job would be one that applies AI and neuromorphic computing for real-world social challenges,” she says. “Something like a cognitive computing researcher for social good.” It’s not the kind of traditional ambition that millennials once dreamed of, she concedes. “I think a major challenge will be navigating the modern nature of this path, which... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351117/hong-kong-international-schools-help-girls-embrace-non-traditional-ambitions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351117/hong-kong-international-schools-help-girls-embrace-non-traditional-ambitions?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 30 May 2026 04:00:07 +0000 Jolene Otremba Jolene Otremba When Jenny began questioning the presence of children’s faces online, it wasn’t because of her own daughters. “I think it was when my niece turned 13,” she says. “She told her mum, ‘I don’t like seeing my face on social media.’ That really stuck with me.” Her daughters are now six and eight, but the comment prompted her to think ahead. “How will my kids feel when they see [their faces] in the future?” she wondered. That question is increasingly being asked by millennial parents in Hong Kong.... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351106/why-parents-and-schools-are-rethinking-sharing-kids-photos-social-media?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351106/why-parents-and-schools-are-rethinking-sharing-kids-photos-social-media?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 May 2026 22:00:06 +0000 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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3351775/how-parents-can-help-their-children-deal-grief-after-tai-po-tragedy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3350488/how-hong-kongs-students-and-educators-are-reshaping-lgbt-inclusivity-classrooms?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3348636/how-hong-kong-schools-are-transforming-mirror-university-style-spaces?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3347273/hong-kong-governments-plan-answer-obesity-or-eating-disorder-risk?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3345153/nature-versus-nurture-unlocking-potential-hong-kongs-children?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3343401/how-hong-kong-schools-and-artists-offgodtate-are-nurturing-creativity-ai-era?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3342081/how-help-hong-kong-students-navigate-their-university-choices-and-career-paths?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3340362/hong-kong-tackles-sen-technology-set-bigger-role-assessment-intervention?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3337612/global-roots-or-local-realities-inside-hong-kongs-evolving-international-schools?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3336911/hong-kong-forest-schools-are-embracing-risky-play-children-young-2?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3335175/decoding-gen-alphas-quirky-slang-skibidi-italian-brain-rot-and-6-7?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3333661/does-faith-based-education-really-contribute-academic-excellence-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3330460/how-hong-kong-schools-are-taking-holistic-approach-student-assessment?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3330206/under-pressure-rising-stress-crisis-among-hong-kong-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3329734/hong-kongs-reading-crisis-why-our-excellent-readers-have-little-love-books?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3328180/faced-hong-kongs-expensive-and-pressuring-schools-some-parents-home-school-instead?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3327718/how-consultants-are-helping-parents-navigate-path-elite-school-admissions?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3325836/ultimate-guide-international-school-admissions-hong-kong-parents?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3325835/learning-eat-well-hong-kong-schools-stress-eating-meals-nourish-and-educate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3317407/hong-kongs-great-homework-debate-how-much-too-much?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3321839/school-admissions-expert-ruth-benny-says-choosing-school-best-done-face-face?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3317398/how-hong-kongs-secondary-schools-are-fostering-creativity-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3319456/hit-netflix-series-adolescence-raises-key-questions-about-shaping-masculine-identities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3317390/how-choose-between-single-sex-vs-coed-schools-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3318234/esf-explore-and-sports-and-theatre-camps-help-students-make-most-holidays?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3317364/how-hong-kong-schools-are-reshaping-ib-programmes-better-prepare-students?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3316938/how-hong-kong-schools-are-preparing-students-evolving-technological-landscape?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3315497/nurturing-gifted-students-hong-kong-schools-special-programmes-brilliant-young-minds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/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.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3313328/tackling-social-medias-impact-teens-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/special-reports/article/3313328/tackling-social-medias-impact-teens-mental-health?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Jun 2025 22:00:14 +0000