Principal’s Office: In Conversation with School Director Mr Christopher Coates of ASHK
As the American School Hong Kong (ASHK) celebrates its 10th anniversary, Ritzy Hong Kong speaks with School Director Mr. Christopher Coates to reflect on the school’s origins, milestones, challenges, and ambitions for the decade ahead.
Q1. When ASHK opened in 2016 with its core principles of an accredited American curriculum and holistic development, what was your initial vision for the school?
When we opened our doors in 2016, my vision was bold yet simple. I didn’t want ASHK to become just another international school in Hong Kong. I wanted to create something truly distinctive.
My goal was to provide a rigorous and fully accredited American curriculum that would give students a smooth pathway into top universities around the world. With Esol Education’s extensive experience, we were able to adopt leading educational practices, ensure operational stability, and build a school that was globally connected from the very beginning.
Equally important to me was holistic development. I have always believed that education extends beyond academics. I wanted a school where character, creativity, resilience, and empathy were nurtured with intention. Our mission to provide a balanced education within an inclusive community reflects that commitment. My vision was for students to grow into well-rounded, compassionate global citizens.
Q2. Looking back over the past decade, what key milestones stand out for you and why?
Several milestones have defined our journey.
One major achievement was becoming an IB World School, which strengthened both our academic rigor and international-mindedness. Our accreditations from WASC and later MSA further validated the quality of our American-style educational programme.
A deeply meaningful milestone for me was our first graduating class. Many of those students joined us in the early years, and watching them complete their ASHK journey and move on to top universities was incredibly moving.
The introduction of our House system—Antelopes, Sharks, Hawks and Kangaroos—was another significant moment. It sparked real school spirit and helped build a strong sense of community among students and families.
Joining ISSFHK, ACAMIS, and becoming a leading school within AMIS expanded opportunities for our students in sports, arts, travel, and music. Hosting an international music festival on our campus remains a proud highlight.
Q3. ASHK emphasises intellectual, physical, moral and social development. How has your holistic approach evolved over the last ten years?
Our holistic philosophy has grown from a guiding principle into a fully integrated educational pathway.
We developed a seamless progression from the US Common Core curriculum to the IB Diploma Programme, which prepares students to think critically and independently with a global perspective.
We further strengthened our programme by deepening appreciation for Chinese language and culture, ensuring our students stay connected to the local and regional environment. Our Week Without Walls has also evolved into a key element of student development, teaching time management, emotional skills, self-awareness, and helping students explore their passions.
We fully integrated our ASHK values—Achievement, Student Agency, Holistic Development, and Kindness—into everyday school life. These values shape who we are and guide every student’s growth.
Looking ahead, we will continue expanding opportunities through Model United Nations, the Ambassador Club, and overseas service trips. My goal is to inspire every student to discover their strengths, cultivate balance, and step confidently into their future.
Q4. Being part of Esol Education’s global network has been an asset. How has this affiliation shaped ASHK’s growth and identity?
Esol’s nearly 50 years of experience laid the foundation for ASHK’s success. It allowed us to implement proven educational practices, maintain excellence in operations, and connect our community to a global network of schools and educators. This affiliation has been instrumental in shaping our identity as a forward-thinking, internationally connected American school.
Q5. What challenges did ASHK face in its early years, and how did you overcome them?
One of our biggest early challenges was establishing a purpose-built campus in a city where space is limited.
We transformed the former Buddhist Hui Yuan College in Tai Po into a modern, warm, and innovative learning environment. This required a complete overhaul, including infrastructure upgrades, redesigned learning spaces, technology integration, and the creation of specialised labs and multi-purpose areas. The result was a campus designed specifically to support our vision of learning.
Q6. As ASHK marks its 10th anniversary, what proud achievements would you highlight?
Among many proud achievements, our students’ post-graduation success stands out. Over the past decade, our graduates have been admitted to top-tier universities such as UC San Diego, Penn State, UBC, UCL, King’s College London, University of Toronto, University of Melbourne, HKU, Berklee College of Music, and The Juilliard School.
Seeing our alumni thrive in diverse pathways is incredibly rewarding for both me and our faculty.
Q7. Looking to the next five to ten years, what ambitions do you have for ASHK?
One of my key priorities is to build a strong and engaged global alumni network. As more students graduate, I want to create meaningful pathways for alumni to mentor current students, contribute to school life, and serve as ambassadors. This interconnected community will enrich the ASHK experience for generations to come.
Q8. As School Director, what does this 10-year anniversary mean to you personally? What legacy do you hope to leave?
This anniversary is a moment of deep gratitude. It reflects the dedication of our founders, the commitment of our faculty, and the trust of our families.
While I am proud of our students’ outstanding university placements, I believe our true legacy lies in the environment we have built. I hope I have helped create a place where students discover their voice, build resilience, and develop the confidence to contribute positively to an interconnected world.
About American School Hong Kong (ASHK)
American School Hong Kong offers a holistic American education from Kindergarten (age 5) to Grade 12, with the option of the IB Diploma pathway. ASHK is owned and operated by Esol Education, one of the world’s largest providers of international American schools.
Contact:
+852 3919 4111
admissions@ashk.edu.hk
6 Ma Chung Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong
www.ashk.edu.hk
