Thank you to The Standard for inviting us to speak at the recent Kindergarten Fair and for this summary of the pertinent points, including the danger of an early offer.
The following is quoted from The Standard's write-up :
𝗚𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲
Before all else, parents should look for a school that best fits their child instead of finding the best school. “Your neighbour or colleague may say that their children like their school very much, but that school may not necessarily be suitable for your child,” stressed Ruth Benny, Head Girl & Founder of Top Schools.
To help confused parents systematically navigate through the overwhelming collection of information on local and international schools, she summed up three areas that merit close attention: preferences and priorities; proficiency and personality; procedures and policy.
On the nuts and bolts of application and gaining admission, she said that competition is not as keen as you might think and she advised parents not be put off by the sheer number of applications.
As for tuition fees, she suggested looking at the annual sum as opposed to the monthly amount. Location and school bus routes should also be considered, especially the traffic gridlock on Hong Kong Island.
As for when to apply, she cautioned that parents can get an early offer when they apply early, but a deposit is generally needed and refunds are difficult, although not impossible.
If you would like to discuss Hong Kong Schools admissions, please complete this form and we will be in touch.