Hong Kong teachers express concerns over new primary science subject set to replace general studies

A draft curriculum released last Tuesday explained that primary school students will learn about the country’s scientific achievements in the new primary science subject, aiming to “develop the country through science education”.

The subject, which will align with the secondary school curriculum, also aims to strengthen STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and nurture research, innovation, and technology (IT) talents.

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A general studies teacher surnamed Leung, who teaches at an aided primary school in Jordan, expressed concerns over the change.

“I do think most teachers would hesitate when dealing with a new subject because that means more preparation time is needed for each class, [leading to] a heavier workload,” said Leung, who has two years of teaching experience.

She said it is unlikely that her school will hire new teachers for the new subjects, explaining that most schools will likely require existing teachers to manage both.

“Some schools are now assigning English teachers to teach science because they will teach this subject in English,” she said. “Extra training for teachers is a must ... Most schools will expect their teachers to upgrade themselves through continuing education programmes.”

Leung hoped the government would provide clear guidelines and sufficient time for publishers and schools to prepare for the 2025-26 academic year. She added that although she does not have a science background, she is willing to upskill and teach the new subject.

The decision to axe general studies and replace it with separate science and humanities subjects was outlined in this year’s policy address, with the new classes set to be introduced in September 2025.

General studies is an interrelated subject combining arts and science disciplines, with topics covering health and living, people and environment, science and technology, community and citizenship, national identity and Chinese culture.

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Under the new plan, the science subject will make up less than seven per cent of lesson hours; Primary One and Two students will have no fewer than two lessons a week, while those in Primary Three to Six will have no fewer than three lessons a week. The subject has 15 themes under four key areas: “life and environment”, “matter, energy and change”, “earth and space”, and “science, technology, engineering and society”.

Primary Three pupils will explore methods of investigation in science, such as fair testing, classifying and pattern-seeking. Primary Five students will learn about the achievements of renowned scientists from Hong Kong and mainland China, such as chemist Tu Youyou and physicist Charles Kao Kuen.

Meanwhile, the humanities subject will cover topics ranging from national security law, sex education, sustainability and financial education.

All primary science teachers will be required to undergo a 30-hour training programme in early 2024 offered by the Bureau.

In addition, each publicly-funded primary school will receive a one-off grant of HK$350,000 to purchase learning and teaching resources, upgrade facilities and equipment, and support teachers’ professional development.

When asked if the science subject would create more academic pressure for young students, Leung said it would depend on the amount of homework and the level of difficulty.

“If it’s fun and manageable, like doing science experiments, I think students might prefer taking science over other subjects,” she said.

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Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin said that flexible lesson hours will be reduced following the implementation of the new subjects.

Schools can designate no more than 25 per cent of lesson time as flexible hours for pupils to take part in activities or do their homework.

Wong*, a general studies teacher currently teaching at a private primary school that has implemented a stand-alone science subject, welcomed the change.

She explained that the existing curriculum for general studies, which combines arts and science, is actually more challenging for teachers.

“Separating the disciplines is a good idea,” she said. “Teachers like me, who have a science background and mostly studied physics, chemistry and biology, had to take on additional training to learn about local policies and social sciences to teach general studies. Those without a science background would find it even more difficult.”

Chris Fung Ka-chun, principal of Sai Kung Sung Tsun Catholic School (Primary Section), noted that the new subject could “sow seeds” in young minds regarding the importance of IT and nurture talent in the city.

“The subject is essential for both national and global development … Hong Kong has very few IT talents,” he said.

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“Students can delve deeper into learning about science and technology, subjects that may not have been covered extensively in the original curriculum, such as aerospace and environmental science,” he added.

The principal admitted that while the curriculum change is challenging, fostering science education is necessary.

“Pressure is inevitable, but we hope students can develop in this area, knowing that Hong Kong needs science education. As primary school educators, we are willing to do it,” he said.