Hong Kong Secondary Schools: DSE, Band and Language Systems

In 2024, the Hong Kong government's "cooling" measures for the property market bring good news for first-time buyers and non-local residents. This has sparked interest among many parents to choose a right secondary school in Hong Kong. LetsGetHome stands out by offering an exhaustive guide to navigating the complex landscape of Hong Kong's secondary education.

Understanding Hong Kong's Secondary School Banding System

Hong Kong categorizes its secondary schools into three Bands based on academic achievements and admissions criteria: Band 1 represents schools with the highest academic performance, while Band 3 includes those with more accessible entry requirements. However, it's crucial to look beyond rankings when selecting a school, considering factors like school culture, specialized programs, and support for students' holistic development.

Top Secondary Schools in Hong Kong

The prestige of Band 1 schools such as Queen's College, St. Paul's Co-educational College, and Diocesan Boys' School comes not only from their academic excellence but also from the comprehensive developmental opportunities they offer. These institutions foster an environment where students can explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and engage in diverse extracurricular activities. The Education Bureau and other educational assessment bodies provide valuable resources for those seeking detailed ranking information.

Is School Free in Hong Kong?

Education in Hong Kong is free for students attending public schools from primary education through to the end of secondary education. This policy ensures that every child has access to 12 years of basic education. However, international schools and private institutions, which may offer different curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the UK-based A-Levels, typically charge tuition fees.

Is English Taught in Hong Kong Schools?

English is a core subject in Hong Kong schools, reflecting the city's colonial history and its status as an international financial center. While Cantonese remains the medium of instruction in most public schools, English is taught from an early age, and many schools offer a bilingual curriculum.

Chinese or English Medium Secondary Schools

In Hong Kong, secondary schools use either Chinese (Cantonese) or English as the medium of instruction, reflecting the city's blend of Eastern and Western cultures.

Chinese Medium Instruction (CMI) schools focus on providing a strong foundation in Chinese language and culture, with most subjects taught in Cantonese, appealing to families who prioritize local educational and career pathways.

English Medium Instruction (EMI) schools cater to both expatriate and local students aiming for an international education, preparing them for global opportunities with English as the primary language of instruction, while still incorporating Chinese language studies.

How Stressed are Hong Kong Students?

Fairly speaking, Hong Kong education system emphasis on academic achievement and the prevalent use of examinations and assessments from an early age contribute to stress levels that are notably higher compared to many Western countries.

The Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) results play a pivotal role in assessing a student's academic level, significantly impacting university admissions and future career paths. Schools like La Salle College and Maryknoll Convent School are renowned for their students' impressive DSE performance.

Recognizing the impact of this pressure, Hong Kong is taking steps to support student well-being. Schools are introducing counseling services and stress management programs, aiming to balance academic demands with mental health. There's also a growing conversation about valuing different educational paths, such as vocational training, to reduce the singular focus on university as the only route to success.

How to Choose Hong Kong International Schools?

Hong Kong's international schools are renowned for their diverse educational offerings. Families can choose from schools following the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, British GCSEs and A-Levels, the American curriculum with its AP courses, the Australian Board of Secondary Education, and the International Primary Curriculum, among others.

Leading International Schools in Hong Kong

• Hong Kong International School (HKIS): Known for its American-style education and rigorous AP courses, HKIS prepares students for success in American universities and colleges.
• Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS): Offering both the IB Diploma and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, CDNIS is a beacon for families seeking a Canadian curriculum.
• The English Schools Foundation (ESF): With several schools under its umbrella, ESF provides a British-style education with a focus on the IB program in its later years, catering to a broad international community.
• French International School (FIS): FIS offers a bilingual French and English education, with a curriculum leading to the French Baccalaureate or the IB Diploma, serving the Francophone and Francophile communities in Hong Kong.

Choosing the Right International School

Selecting the right international school in Hong Kong requires careful consideration of several factors:

• Curriculum and Accreditation: Identify schools that offer the curriculum and accreditation that align with your child's future educational and career goals.
• Cultural and Language Support: For families seeking to maintain their home language or cultural ties, look for schools offering strong language programs and cultural activities.
• Location and Facilities: Consider the school's location, transportation options, and the quality of its facilities, including sports, arts, and technology resources.
• Tuition and Scholarships: International schools vary in terms of tuition fees. Research scholarship opportunities and financial aid options that may be available to make the education more accessible.

Easy House Hunting in Hong Kong with LetsGetHome

This guide aims to streamline the complex process of selecting a secondary school in Hong Kong, no matter if it is international schools or Chinese and English medium schools.

Parents who wish to increase their children's chances of attending a certain secondary school should consider various admission conditions, such as school network, student background, and educational pathways.

For parents seeking the perfect home in Hong Kong, LetsGetHome stands as an invaluable partner. With LetsGetHome, finding a family-friendly neighborhood in Hong Kong is straightforward and efficient, making your house-hunting journey stress-free and focused on your family's needs.