In the realm of international education, Hong Kong Academy (HKA) stands as a beacon of excellence, securing Ritzy Hong Kong’s prestigious “Hong Kong International School of the Year” award for the second year in a row. Founded on a mission-driven ethos, HKA thrives as a small to medium-sized community with a collective energy — one that tackles challenges and fosters a future-focused mindset.
A guiding force who inspires HKA’s multiple endeavours, Principal Virginia Hunt emphasises the school’s mission-driven nature. The school’s intimate size is not a limitation, but a strategic advantage, fostering personalisation, recognition and a profound sense of connection among students and educators. This unique setting means HKA is a small school with big ideas, cultivating a spirit of innovation and collaboration.
At the heart of HKA’s success is a carefully nurtured culture of belonging. Be it a student, parent or staff member, everyone becomes an integral part of a thriving entity. The intentional design of the school’s building facilitates connection, providing various learning spaces that stimulate both group and individual growth. Students actively contribute to the school’s continuous improvement, whether they are here for a couple of years or for the child’s whole school life.
HKA’s commitment to inspiring intellectual curiosity finds expression through the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. Emphasising inquiry-based learning, HKA encourages students to ask questions — any question, because no question is a silly question — to create a dynamic learning environment from the earliest years. Therefore, classrooms buzz with dialogue, where students actively engage with teachers and peers. This results in an environment where students take pride in their accomplishments and develop a genuine sense of purpose.
Intrinsic motivation takes the spotlight at HKA, where students are encouraged to develop self-awareness and strive to be the best version of themselves. Principal Hunt highlights the importance of intrinsic motivation by guiding students to set realistic goals, visualise their path and navigate challenges without overstretching and creating stress. This approach cultivates a lifelong love for learning that reaches beyond the traditional boundaries of education.
The school’s emphasis on intercultural mindedness equips students with a valuable mindset that recognises different perspectives. In a world grappling with significant challenges, HKA provides students with an environment comprising diverse backgrounds, cultures and opinions. This global outlook is not just a theoretical concept but a lived experience at HKA, where students engage in collaborative projects and dialogues with peers from around the world.
With 17 years of tireless commitment to HKA, Principal Virginia Hunt’s recognition as “Principal of the Year – Kindergarten” is a testament to her role as a community builder. Her impact extends beyond administrative duties — she actively engages with students, greeting them daily, all the while fostering a sense of trust and respect.
In the evolving narrative of education, HKA emerges as an award-winning institution that demonstrates the transformative power of a holistic, student-centred approach. As the school continues to inspire, learn and grow, its impact is felt beyond the confines of the school grounds, contributing to the broader landscape of global education. In recognising HKA’s achievements and its commitment to nurturing globally minded individuals, Ritzy Hong Kong proudly awards the school “Hong Kong International School of the Year – Hong Kong Academy.” This title reflects the school’s dedication to excellence, innovation and creating an educational environment where every student is empowered to thrive.
