International schools in Hong Kong offer a wide range of curricula to suit different needs. The major systems available are based on the American curriculum, English curriculum and the International Baccalaureate, along with a number of others.
American curriculum
There is no one standardised, national American educational curriculum because of the decentralisation of the American system. However, most American schools provide a core curriculum that is less focused on academics and more on the engaging holistic side.
Schools: The Harbour School, American School Hong Kong, American International School, Stamford American School, Hong Kong International School, Hong Kong Adventist Academy, International Christian School
English national curriculum
The English national curriculum prepares students for GCSE and A-Level senior school qualifications. Compulsory subjects include English, maths, science, history, geography, foreign languages, design and technology, art and design, music, physical education, citizenship and computing. Years 1 to 6 are separated into educational milestones called Key Stages 1 to 4.
Schools: Kellett School, Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong, Shrewsbury International School, Nord Anglia International School, Harrow International School, Discovery Bay International School, Lantau International School, Anfield School, Yew Chung International School, Mount Kelly Hong Kong, Singapore International School, Norwegian International School, Island Christian Academy
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Perhaps the most well known of international certifications in Hong Kong, the International Baccalaureate (IB) consists of four high-quality international education programmes for different age groups. These include the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP).
Schools: Hong Kong Academy, Malvern College Hong Kong, Canadian International School of Hong Kong, ESF Discovery College, ESF Renaissance College, ESF Sha Tin College, ESF Island School, ESF South Island School, ESF West Island School, ESF King George V School, German Swiss International School, Australian International School, Japanese International School
Montessori curriculum
Developed by physician Maria Montessori, the Montessori method uses specialised learning materials and a unique classroom to teach, rather than traditional methods. Classrooms are multi-age, with younger and oldest students working together.
Schools: International Montessori School, Woodlands, Rosaryhill School
Reggio Emilia curriculum
A student-centred and constructivist self-guided curriculum, the Reggio Emilia approach focuses on a child’s personal interests, relationships with others in the community and the environment. It shares many values with the Montessori framework.
Schools inspired by this approach: Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong, Fairchild Kindergarten, Fairchild Junior Academy, Mulberry House Academy
Forest school
Forest schools offer a specialised learning approach that offers chances for a child to explore and learn from the environment around them – to, essentially, get out of the classroom and get in touch with nature.
Schools: Leapfrog Kindergarten, Mulberry House International Kindergarten, Forest School Sai Kung, Wilderness International Kindergarten, Discovery Bay International School
