Glenealy v HK Academy

[mumofone]

Have looked at both ESF Glenealy and HK Academy and liked them both? Can anyone share with me any thoughts they have about making a choice, assuming they have places available.

Thanks

 

[MommyTo3]

If it's for a Year 1 space you should have applied last September, and in that case you should have received an interview / waiting list letter. But maybe you're preparing for next year already. Both schools teach PYP programme. Main difference is that class size at ESF is 30 children and much less at HK Academy (around 20). You may have to consder HK Academy moving to Sai Kung in 2013 and fees are almost double ESF will start with their $25k capital levy next school year for Year 1 / 7 students but it's fully refundable when leaving. I can only say I am happy with the level at ESF in general (don't know this particular school). For us, it's not worth paying the double the fees as I don't believe I am getting twice as much in return ... However, I know many people that are very happy with HK Academy, but also know plenty of happy ESF parents.

 

[mumofone]

Thanks so much for your quick response. I am asking on behalf of a client with twins who is looking at Year 3 level. We were impressed with both schools and since a company is picking up schools fees its not a cost consideration.

 

[xoxodt]

I am currently looking at Glenealy or Bradbury. I was advised the Glenealy has currently a total of 10 children in each year on waitlist, Bradbury has over 150.

I am leaning towards EFS, due to costs of International schools in HK. I am from Sydney and my daughter was to attend one of the top schools in Sydney, and I thought the Australian School would be good match.(for annual fees) Good luck I would stick to the EFS based schools, Just have to remember that its not about the class sizes it about your child.

 

[Seb's Dad]

keep in mind when you are looking at waiting lists, that you need to take into consideration the size of the school. glenealy is a very small, exclusive, lovely, school, and the catchment area is not transient. those 10 places are like gold dust!

bradbury is a fantastic school as well, with a much more transient catchment zone.

please do take that into consideration before looking at schools.

the teachers at the ESF school my kids are at are excellent. i know a few glenealy and bradbury teachers and they are also very highly regarded. i know some HKA teachers who are also wonderful.

i know mums of multiples who are very happy at glenealy.

both HKA and ESF have their good and negative points. personally, i would apply to both schools.

good luck in your decision.

 

[xoxodt]

Thanks for the insight, I have found this entire process interesting not to say the least. I honestly thought Private Schooling in Australia was tough, now I am able to say that was a breeze.
I have placed my daughter on the waitlist for 2011 intake.