Hong Kong wants the best for parents and students. Therefore, they provide quality education with more efficient teaching methods. It involves revising the curriculum multiple times to determine what is necessary for a child’s development. International schools offer a specific curriculum that suits every student’s needs that prepares them for a better future.Â
Before choosing a curriculum, you must know some factors, like what to expect. One is searching for an International School with subjects that match your child’s academic needs and interests. We enumerated some types of curricula and how to pick which is best for your child below.Â
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Types of Curriculum
Each curriculum has different purposes for a child’s education. It is either for academics or nurturing other skills. We then listed the most common types of curriculum in Hong Kong.
1. British CurriculumÂ
Most international schools in Hong Kong are UK-based, making the British curriculum a popular choice among expats. Top universities globally recognize this curriculum, and it is a world-class quality that equips students who plan to work in international settings.
The British curriculum focuses more on academic opportunities and allows students to pursue their passion. Additionally, university admission is high with this curriculum.
2. IB CurriculumÂ
The IB curriculum uses an in-depth learning process by teaching students with fewer subjects. It is accessible for ages three to nineteen, who can pick between three programs available. It will help students discover unique skills they can use in future workplaces. Educators of the IB curriculum use inquiry-based teaching styles to enhance student-teacher connections.
3. American CurriculumÂ
The American curriculum is a global degree that prepares a child to study in the U.S. It is more holistic rather than academics. This curriculum is recommended for children ages five to eighteen that prefer hands-on teaching.
It will yield well-rounded global citizens more likely to be admitted to prestigious universities worldwide.
4. Australian CurriculumÂ
Some international schools in Hong Kong follow Western Australian education standards. It includes eight subjects to create a more balanced and stronger academic foundation for each student.
Choosing The Right Curriculum: What To Consider?
With a wide range of options, expat parents might be overwhelmed in choosing a curriculum right for their kids. Below are the tips to quickly pinpoint a curriculum that would provide long-term, quality education.
1. Check the accreditation of the curriculum.Â
Picking a curriculum is the most critical part of international schooling. Preferably, it must be accredited by the Education Bureau of Hong Kong. It is to guarantee that the curriculum meets high education standards to secure your child’s future. Moreover, universities worldwide recognize accredited international schools, making it easier to apply for a four-year degree course later on.
2. Evaluate the child’s learning path.
Each curriculum follows a unique teaching method that parents need to know. Therefore, understanding the child’s learning style is the first step when choosing a curriculum. There are two types: structured and inquiry-based approaches.
A structured learning style is ideal for a child who loves analyzing subject matter with less supervision. It is more organized and economical, while an inquiry-based or learner-centered approach is more inclusive.
A curriculum following an inquiry-based learning style is best for students who enjoy classroom interactions. Always look into each curriculum’s teaching methods to find one that suits your kid’s learning style.
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3. Make long-term education goals.Â
It is best to start planning early on your child’s education goals to see the path clearly. There is a designed curriculum for specific professions and university degrees, which prepares students. For instance, the IB or British curriculum best fits a child pursuing study in the UK. Having this mindset can speed up the journey of learning overseas.
4. Investigate the school’s academic performance.Â
The curriculum is only a part of global education; well, its efficacy really depends on the school’s performance. Thorough research is vital to know the overall standing of your chosen international school compared to its competitors. Please find out how well their students in taking standardized tests. The university admissions rate is also significant evidence of international schools’ level of excellence.
Getting reviews from prior students in an international school that you prefer can also help you assess the school’s quality of education.
5. Must include extra-curricular activitiesÂ
Extra-curricular activities play a significant role in a child’s personal development. Parents should not only focus on academics if they want to nurture long-term skills.
International education in Hong Kong considers the child’s needs as a whole. It gives students more opportunities to do activities like sports, music, and community service to develop new interests. The parent’s job is to determine whether extra-curricular activities align with the child’s liking and passion.
Final Thoughts
The right curriculum dramatically relies on the child’s needs and goals and the parent’s budget. Entering a dream university is easier after finishing the secondary level in an international school. It is also a massive step for them to obtain global careers and be on top of the competition in high-paying jobs.
Pursuing a degree abroad is expensive and involves many life changes, but it will be worth the time, effort, and resources. So, do not hesitate to inquire about one of the international schools in Hong Kong to provide the best future for your child.
