Finding school for 6yo and 8yo for fall

[yellow]

We are relocating with work to HK in July 2013 with two children. We have not decided where to live. Wanted to be close to a school. Am feeling overwhelmed by long wait lists and closed admissions for many schools. Anyone have a great recommendation for school? I have looked at all the websites. How is the Christian Alliance, or Hong Kong International? Pros and Cons? What about the International Christian School? We also are looking at the Canadian International and Australia International. Both kids speak only English. Any school that really stands out? Any tips on how to get accepted?
Thanks for your tips.

 

[penguinsix]

To be honest, you don't have a choice--take the school that will take you.

The wait list and application process is well underway. HKIS has a program for applications for 'new arrivals' so you may still have time to apply there, but for many other schools offer letters have already gone out and waitlists are already drawn up. Absent a debenture from a company, you'll have a hard time getting in at many schools at this late date.

I know this sounds a bit crazy but the facts are--it is a bit crazy. Some families separate with one parent coming to HK to work and apply for schools, with the other parent remaining in the home country until a place opens up. Some will take their work to Singapore. Others simply refuse HK assignments because there is no place for the kids.

My advice would be "any port in a storm". You should be blanketing many of the international schools trying to find a place for the kids and then working next year to transfer to the school that is your 'first choice'.

Good luck.

 

[rani]

Finding a school can be overwhelming. Are you Canadian by any chance? If you are then do apply to Canadian as you do get priority. I would apply to as many schools as you can. Also include Korean, Japanese and Carmel to your list.

 

[Portia]

Have you tried Island Christian Academy? Because it only opened in Aug 2012, it is not as well known and there might be room. My 6 yo is at ICA and there have been a few new pupils joining his class during the year. At the moment the oldest class is Y3, but will be Y4 next academic year. What grade is your 8 year old in?

 

[AnnaMom]

You may want to try Kellett as they have a new campus from Aug 2013 and the last that I heard they had places for most years.

 

[Editor1]

A reply from Anne Murphy, Education Consultant at ITS


Firstly, I am going to narrow down the options because the schools you have mentioned are a far reach, sadly.

Depending on the age of your children and the year group they will enter in August 2013 – there are some options on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

I would definitely consider Island Christian Academy on Bridges Street near Mid-Levels. The school opened September 2013 and is very impressive. The teachers are very friendly and the Principal is very passionate and welcoming. The teacher/student ratio is low which is quite unique for Hong Kong.

Other schools that would be worth considering on Kowloon side: Anfield British School, Think International, Kingston International School, and Japanese International. The chances of getting a spot at the Japanese School is better for children in upper primary - and siblings always get priority.

Another option on Hong Kong side is The Harbour School. The school is currently located in Kennedy Town but may be moving to Stanley for the new Academic Year.

Some pre-schools such as Woodlands, Sunshine House, PIPS and Tutor Time have classes for children from 5-7 years. If you are keen to live in Tung Chung or Discovery Bay, you should also investigate Discovery Mind Primary School.

 

[Backtohongkong]

Dear Yellow,

We're in the same shoe. We're also relocating to HK in the summer with a 7-year old and I can tell you that it is very difficult and frustrating to find a school! I would definitely consider the newer schools such as Island Christian Academy, Think International and Anfield. Schools with only primary section would be easier to get into; but then you'll have to go through this school hunting exercise again in a year or so. As for Kellet, last we wrote to the school we were told not to even bother with sending in the application (in a very polite way though) as the wait list is way too long; same with Chinese International. The interview at International Christian School is very rigorous. It also has a very long wait list and student turnover is low. When we last met them, we were told that all Grade 3 students have re-enrolled for the 2013/14 school year. As one of the parents mentioned, most of the interviews are well underway. You might want to call them up as soon as possible. You do have priority at some schools though if you are their passport holders. And it would be easier if your company has debentures. Good luck with your search!

 

[yellow]

Thanks for all the info. I am researching all these schools. Whew is very overwhelming. If anyone else has any schools not listed please post

 

[flo]

I am a parent at Island Christian Academy as well. The school has reserved some buffer for expats coming into HK midway through the school year on purpose. So you will have a good chance.