Introduction
We know that Hong Kong has a lot of secondary schools. But do you know the similarities and differences between educational systems in these schools?
What are the differences between the schools in Hong Kong?
The standard of education in Hong Kong is generally high and all schools are registered with the Education Bureau. Hong Kong has 3 types of secondary schools in the city: public (which can be comprehensive or subsidised), private-independent, and international.
Public schools are free to attend and the majority of schools in Hong Kong fall under this category. They follow the internationally-recognized Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE), allowing students to enter universities in Hong Kong and overseas. Hong Kong is also home to private independent schools that each set their own curriculum and charge fees. Most international schools offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), but a few follow the curriculum of their home country, such as the International Advanced Levels (IAL) or the Advanced Placement examinations offered in the United States (AP).
Here is a list which shows some of the pros and cons of studying in different types of schools in Hong Kong:
Pros of studying in local schools | Pros of studying in international schools |
Chinese/ Mandarin Proficiency As Cantonese and Mandarin are the main teaching languages, students develop a high proficiency to read, write, and speak in these languages. | English Proficiency Many International schools use English as their primary teaching language. As a result, students end up conversing in English, allowing them to develop native English levels. Furthermore, learning English in a less structured, social environment allows students to develop a more natural grasp of the language. |
Knowledge about HK Culture Local school students gain a deep understanding and appreciation for Hong Kong culture, subsequently strengthening their cultural identity. Some experiences like learning about HK food, leisure, and traditions are more often experienced by local school students. | Global Outlook Being immersed in a multicultural environment not only helps develop cultural sensitivity but also builds a global mindset. If you decide to study overseas, there will be less of a culture shock when transitioning to life outside of Hong Kong. |
Cost Local schools are much more cost-efficient compared to private/international schools. | Work-life balance Often, curricula adopted by international schools place a larger emphasis on work-life balance. There is often more freedom of choice between subjects and a more flexible, inquiry-based approach to teaching. |
Cons of studying in local schools | Cons of studying in international schools |
Learning style (Rote learning + black and white thinking) Many local schools adopt a very traditional educational system based on rote memorization. This type of rote learning encourages a very “black and white” type of thinking that limits kids’ abilities to think beyond instructions when problem-solving. This often develops a fixed mindset in children. Furthermore, commonly-seen lecture-style classes promote a passive learning style. | Cost International schools are often expensive and do not provide much financial aid. |
Curriculum Many local schools adopt the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) curriculum. Although it produces very high achieving students who go on to globally renowned universities, it is also a cutthroat, make-or-break style exam which has a university eligibility rate of 58% (as of 2019). | Low Chinese proficiency Many international schools place some emphasis on learning Chinese, but students often learn it in isolation (only in class). If you don't speak these languages outside of school, there is less chance that you will obtain native fluency. It’s worth noting that some international schools do offer strong bilingual language programs. |
Homework Linked closely to the curriculum, local schools place a lot of value on homework. The only issue is that it can quickly become excessive (think more than 3 hours a day) and eat into social, recreational, and family time. | |
Tips for the people who want to change schools or other options
Choosing a suitable school is definitely important because students acquire knowledge from school and the atmosphere or environment can have a significant impact. So if you are really confused now, just be clear on what priorities you have regarding school. Overall, choose a school you’re interested in that provides a learning method you’re comfortable with and will help you achieve your dreams.
Resources
Written by : Hiu Nam Chau
Edited by : Anvita Verma
Graphics by : Joyce Liang
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