Ready to Learn but Nowhere to Go

SPECIAL REPORT PARENTS’ GUIDE Monday, February 25, 2013 Missed education Ready to learn but nowhere to go

Is Hong Kong failing its school kids?

Super schools for maths, Play boosts creativity Case studies: Teachers science and financial nous and language skills stand up and deliver

Contents PARENTS’ GUIDE Monday, February 25, 2013

04 Cover story Gaps in education 08 Parents turn creative amid frustrations 10 Business gives government a pass 11 Lessons on easing class shortage woes

12 Arts Art beyond art’s sake 14 Case study: At Blooming Buds, kids learn to play

16 Play & Learn Workout for young minds

20 Finance EDITORIAL Money matters for kids Chief Editor 22 Case study: Valuing financial knowledge at HKIS Rex Aguado [email protected]

Assistant Editors 24 Languages Ginn Fung [email protected] Young tongues wagging Hilda Poon [email protected] 26 Case study: Kellett welcomes early Putonghua learning Subeditor Tom Eves [email protected] 28 Maths & Sciences A head for numbers Web Editor 30 Case study: Rooting for knowledge at Garden House Carmen Tao [email protected] Editorial Co-ordinator Nick Ho [email protected]

Production & Design Editor Jun Cambel [email protected]

Designer Bay Leung [email protected]

ADVERTISING

Sales Manager Dickson Fong [email protected]

Senior Sales Executives Florence Ho [email protected] Kelvin Wong [email protected]

Sales Executive Rita Ng [email protected]

Cover composition: Bay Leung Cover photos: SCMP and agencies

Parents’ Guide is published and printed by South China Morning Post Centre Publishers Limited. Morning Post Centre, 22 Dai Fat Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong. Tel: 2680 8888. This is copyright SCMPPL and distributed free with the South China Morning Post on February 25, 2013.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 3 Cover Story Gaps in education Some see a worsening shortage of international school places, others note an easing. Is it a policy mess or a mere mismatch? Katherine Forestier investigates

Early-childhood queueing Photo: Dickson Lee

Trends in students enrolment, by school type (2001-2011) Change between International schools 2001 and 2011 2001 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Primary 15,317 17,614 17,547 17,194 17,075 17,399 18,089 Secondary 11,882 13,636 13,452 13,688 13,844 14,461 14,908 21% Total 27,199 31,250 30,999 30,882 30,919 31,860 32,997 Government and aided schools 2001 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Primary 443,377 357,478 332,761 310,392 289,865 275,341 265,618 23% Secondary 406,161 413,204 411,488 401,185 391,573 373,211 389,108 Total 849,538 770,682 744,249 711,577 681,438 648,552 654,726 Private and Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools* 2001 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Primary 34,381 35,424 35,641 37,470 37,808 38,372 39,174 Secondary 38,412 53,935 57,474 63,300 64,049 62,065 63,071 40% Total 72,793 89,359 93,115 100,770 101,857 100,437 102,245 *includes private independent and DSS schools offering international curricula, and other private schools TOTAL ENROLMENT (all school types) 2001 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 International school 27,199 31,250 30,999 30,882 30,919 31,860 32,997 Government and aided 849,538 770,682 744,249 711,577 681,438 648,552 654,726 17% Private and DSS 72,793 89,359 93,115 100,770 101,857 100,437 102,245 Total 949,530 891,291 868,363 843,229 814,214 780,849 789,968 Source: Hong Kong Annual Digest of Statistics 2012 SCMP

he demand is insatiable. As new The situation has left many parents frus- tional school. “It is slightly better in Years 5 international schools open, the trated and worried. After forking out thou- and 6, and at the top of the school. The big- queue for places grows longer. sands of dollars in multiple application fees gest challenge is accommodating families. More than 7,370 children await in a desperate effort to secure a place in an Often we can find a place for one child, but places at English Schools Founda- international school, they still do not know if not the other [from the same family].” Ttion (ESF) schools – almost triple the number their child will be accepted. Some have even It seems that more parents than ever are in 2008. At the Chinese International School, resorted to homeschooling (see Page 8). determined that their children receive an at least 700 children applied for just 88 Re- “The greatest pressure is on Reception, international education, no matter whether ception places last year. Kellett School has and Years 1 to 4,” says Ann McDonald, prin- they are incoming expatriates or local Hong- around 400 children on its waiting list. cipal at Kellett School, the British interna- kongers. The government, meanwhile, has

4 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST been forced to react by offering new land or vacant school premises for the international school sector to expand (see Page 10). Dozens of operators, including leading British independent schools and international education companies, are ready to step in to meet the demand (see Page 11). The government’s Annual Digest of Sta- tistics 2012 shows that even though the number of school-age children declined over the past decade, the numbers enrolled at international, private and Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools steadily increased. In 2011, 32,997 students were enrolled at international schools, up 21 per cent from 27,199 in 2001. According to an Education Bureau (EDB) spokesperson, 1,700 new places were created for the 2012-13 school year. There are now 38,600 places, and 34,400 students enrolled, accounting for 4.7 ITS Education’s Anne Murphy and Danny Harrington with their young wards. Photo: Jonathan Wong per cent of all students in Hong Kong. The EDB says there are a total of 48 inter- government and aided schools, but allows earlier. The EDB spokesperson says they national schools in Hong Kong, consisting of the schools greater management freedom, expect even more families to want interna- the ESF’s 14 primary and secondary schools such as over fees and curriculum. tional schooling in the coming years as the and other private schools. But these exclude DSS and private schools saw a 40 per cent city’s international business sector expands. schools operating under other funding increase in enrolment – from 72,793 to Despite the new places, pressure points schemes that are, in practice, international 102,245 – in the decade from 2001. Aided and persist. Clara Chu Sau-chun, director of resi- schools, or offer the option of international government schools, meanwhile, lost a stag- dential leasing at Colliers International, curriculums such as International Baccalau- gering 194,812 of their student population, monitors school places for her clients. Janu- reate (IB) programmes, General Certificates resulting in the closure of 86 primary and ary data shows most schools had waiting lists of Secondary Education (GCSEs) and Gen- nine secondary schools. of 50 to 100, and some many more. “The early eral Certificates of Education (GCE) A-levels. What the enrolment numbers tell us is primary years are the worst,” she says. These are schools set up under the gov- that a significant shift in schooling prefer- Chu advises families to plan ahead and ernment’s Private Independent School (PIS) ence has taken place. By 2011, 17.2 per cent of apply to four or five schools. They will find a scheme, which offered funding for new students in Hong Kong were being educated place, she says, but not necessarily in their schools in the early part of the last decade, in what can be called the independent sector first-choice school. and the DSS, for which the government pro- – international, private and fee-paying DSS Danny Harrington, co-founder and vides the same subsidies per student as to schools – up from just 10.5 per cent a decade director of ITS Education, says most incom-

Share of total student enrolment (%)

International schools Private and DSS Government and aided

2001

2.8 7.6 89.4

2011

4.2 12.9 82.9

Source: Hong Kong Annual Digest of Statistics 2012 SCMP

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 5 Cover Story

Waiting to learn 50 pupils

Waiting list for ESF’s four kindergartens Total places as of Jan 2013 at ESF’s four kindergartens 1,403 1,163

apple 123

Source: English Schools Foundation SCMP

ing families find places for their children London, the most popular schools are over- China may also be another factor driving within a few weeks of arriving. He knows this subscribed,” she says. “Parents are very clear some families away, he adds. from the demand for services provided by in their mind about the schools they like.” “Then there is the ill-fated National and ITS, which include tutoring and placement Steve Thomas, director of construction- Moral Education curriculum – the final straw for both international schools in Hong Kong industry specialists Maxim Recruitment, for many parents,” Adamson says, referring and boarding schools overseas. says that the perceived lack of international to the compulsory curriculum the govern- At any one time, ITS has 10 to 15 school- school places has not been stopping execu- ment was forced to shelve last autumn less children attending its tutorial centre in tives moving to Hong Kong. following strong public resistance. Sheung Wan, for up to six hours a week. “We “It could be possible they won’t get the The picture is complex, and many ob- are a safety valve,” Harrington says. school of their first choice. But is it really rea- servers do not see a crisis over international An EDB spokesperson acknowledges the sonable to expect the place on the day you places. The issue, then, is not to be daunted, imbalance in supply and demand, rather want to join? It is no different from the UK, but to be ready to navigate the system to find than an overall shortage – 11 per cent of where the better, more popular schools, a school fit for your child, even if it is not your places remain unfilled, she points out. This is have waiting lists,” he says. first or second choice. due to the “choice of parents in respect of the Professor Bob Adamson, head of the De- quality, location, curriculum, and religious partment of International Education and or cultural background of the schools, as well Lifelong Learning at the Hong Kong Institute as whether vacancies are available at the of Education, says some parents have not yet For the full story, go to grade levels in demand.” Multiple applica- been won over enough by Hong Kong’s re- www.classifiedpost.com/ tions also add to waiting lists. cent education-system reforms to enrol their parentsguide2013 McDonald sees nothing unusual in the children in government schools. To ‘read’ the QR code above, or to learn more about fact that some schools are turning away so Political mistrust about the role of educa- them, you can download FREE QR scanners from app many children. “If you go to New York or tion in the city’s increasing integration with stores for both iOS and smartphones

6 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST

Cover Story

THE FAMILIES Parents turn creative amid

frustrations Johan and Hanna Nylander have been homeschooling their son, Allan. Photo: Katherine Forestier

llan Nylander, six, has plenty of time to They have applied to one of more than 30 Promises that this would change as an play. However, securing a school place local schools that provide support programmes outcome of education reforms have not A has been anything but a game for his for non-Chinese children and are waiting to hear materialised, he adds. Swedish parents, Johan and Hanna. if Allan has been accepted. Based on first Kwok believes that the International GCSEs Johan, a journalist who works for Swedish impressions, Johan is happy with the choice, a (IGCSEs) and IB Diploma will be less demanding media, spoke of frustration and sleepless nights. primary school in Happy Valley. “It has small than the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary They applied for Allan to join an ESF primary classes and native English teachers,” he says. Education (HKDSE), and an easier route to school 18 months ago but failed to secure a place They are also pleased that Allan will learn university for his children. for Primary 1. Allan has been on the waiting list Cantonese and Putonghua. But he adds that parents are not universally since then, but nothing has turned up. “My suggestion is to look at the local English- satisfied with international schools in Hong Kong. “It’s been very stressful. Everyone’s upset,” medium schools,” Johan says. “The people we Kwok says he and a friend, Alexandra Sun, Johan says. “It is a sellers’ market. Everyone is have talked to are sweet and the education is removed their respective children from a school standing with a hat in their hand.” good.” that they say is too relaxed in the primary years, However, he acknowledges that Hong Kong The Nylanders don’t regret homeschooling leaving students ill-prepared for secondary can be seen as exceptional in the range of for the past year. In Sweden, children start education. options available for parents, in both school at age seven. “The more you push Sun’s son is now in a DSS school following the international and local sectors. One of the main academically early on, the less they learn. The local curriculum that, after a change in challenges was finding information about the more they play, the more intelligent they will be, leadership, has reverted to a more traditional choices beyond the obvious – such as the ESF – as they learn through play,” Johan says. approach to teaching, she says. Her son, who is that could meet Allan’s needs. However, while the Nylanders look forward to musically gifted, is struggling with his Chinese It is not only the shortage of places that has joining a local school, a key reason for the and she wonders if he can cope with the HKDSE. been a concern for the Nylanders, but also the pressure on international school places is “The curriculum is a big problem. They are school fees, capital levies and debentures. demand from local families. stuffing so much material in – it is an exam They have resorted to homeschooling until Tim Kwok Tin-siu has two children studying at machine,” Sun says. “We are all yearning for the they can find a solution, and know of other Yew Chung International School, which he says ideal DSS school. We want Chinese culture and neighbouring families on Lamma Island who are offers a more balanced, less pressured education bilingual abilities, but also a good curriculum and doing the same. With the help of two teachers, than the elite aided primary school his son had teaching method. That is what DSS schools they are following a Cambridge primary originally joined. promised us, but they are not delivering.” curriculum, keeping Allan up to speed in English, “He was often working until 11pm,” Kwok She is now looking for a more inspirational maths and sciences, and supplementing with says. “Something is seriously wrong with the alternative that she can afford as a single parent. lessons in Swedish and Putonghua. local system. The drilling continues.” “We are so frustrated.” Katherine Forestier

8 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST

The Edge.indd 1 18/02/2013 5:18 PM Cover Story

Christopher Hammerbeck, executive director of the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, says that the school-place shortage was becoming a business issue as it was hurting the city’s competitiveness. Photo: Jonathan Wong

PUBLIC POLICY Business gives government a pass

he government deserves credit for In a statement, the EDB has stated that “the need for more places, particularly at primary responding to the increased demand for government is committed to developing a vibrant level. Findings are due to be reported to the T international school places. international school sector in meeting the Legislative Council within the next few months, Policy moves have eased the shortage that demand for school places from local and according to the spokesperson. parents and the business community have been overseas families living in Hong Kong and “It was a business issue. It was beginning to so concerned about, with land offered for four families coming to Hong Kong for work or affect the competitiveness of Hong Kong. new schools, and four redundant local-school investment.” Companies were having to relocate their sites now up for tender. Harrow International School was the first of executives who could not get their children into According to the EDB, the number of places the new campuses to open, receiving 750 schools here,” Hammerbeck says. has increased from 32,100 to 38,600 between children last September. Kellett School and the Demand is expected to increase, from both 2001 and the current academic year – excluding Hong Kong Academy are now completing their local families and international and mainland several thousand more new places in private facilities in Kowloon Bay and Sai Kung, children moving to Hong Kong. Affordable independent and DSS schools offering respectively, which will cater for another 1,400 options for middle-income families are also international curricula. A further 3,500 will children from this September. The Christian required, Hammerbeck adds. become available in the next three years as three Alliance PC Lau Memorial International School is The EDB encourages families on tight more campuses are finished, along with the four expected to open its campus in Lai Chi Kok for budgets to consider local schools, in particular schools due to open in vacant school premises, the 2016-17 school year. the more than 30 primary and secondary and two expanded international schools. All are supported by interest-free loans from schools that provide support programmes for “The government has – after a lot of pressure the government, so far totaling more than non-Chinese-speaking children. Regional – dealt with the immediate problem, but it now HK$600 million for the first three schools. Education Offices can assist in securing places in needs to look at the medium to long term,” says The government has also approved the public-sector schools, the spokesperson says. Christopher Hammerbeck, executive director of expansion of existing campuses. Hong Kong But Hammerbeck does not think this is the the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. International School will add 500 primary and answer for many expatriates. If children cannot “The chamber is very encouraged by the open secondary places, while the French International speak the local language, they risk being attitude of the secretary of education and his School is due to grow by 600 places at isolated. They also need to be able to reintegrate team to take a medium- to long-term look at secondary level, after expanding in 2011 into a in their home countries, he adds. And Hong Kong how international education is going to be redundant campus in Chai Wan, home for its should not follow Singapore’s example of barring delivered. We need more sites. There is no primary section. local families from the international educational shortage of potential private providers. The The EDB has completed a study of future sector. “We support freedom of choice,” problem, as always, is real estate.” supply and demand. This confirms there is a Hammerbeck says. Katherine Forestier

10 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST ew school campuses, new admissions to learn in English. Priority will be given to THE SCHOOLS policies and options outside the main children of ESF staff, siblings of current students, N international schools offer some those holding ESF nomination rights, children of solutions for parents looking for an international alumni, returning students, and finally others Lessons on education for their children. “who can benefit from an English-medium Kellett School has had no trouble persuading education”, according to the spokeswoman. easing class its expatriate clientele to accept its new campus “The new admissions policy will be more location, in Kowloon Bay, where fees range from transparent and fairer to all families,” she says. HK$116,500 at primary level to HK$151,700 at “The emphasis … will be on the actual testing of shortage woes secondary. The campus, which opens with the children’s English-language proficiency, and around 700 new places in September, is already on verifying the parents’ commitment to an ESF- full for Reception and the early primary years. style English-medium education through a “We are part of the solution,” says principal parental statement and interview.” Ann McDonald, on concerns about the shortage Nomination rights, normally bought by firms of international school places. “We are receiving to secure places for the children of incoming a lot of external interest from students looking executives, are obtained through a non- for something that is not IB.” refundable HK$500,000 fee. A refundable The ESF is the first choice for many. Despite HK$50,000 deposit is paid to secure an interview the freezing of its government funding more than for a child, and the rest to confirm a place. a decade ago, its fees remain lower than most There are less costly options beyond the ESF. international schools – HK$66,100 a year at A number of DSS schools operate international primary and up to HK$102,000 at secondary. streams teaching IB or GCSE and GCE A-level The ESF would like to open more schools to courses, with fees up to HK$87,840 a year for the meet the demand, according to a spokeswoman. IB Diploma taught in upper secondary. However, However, she confirms there are no concrete under EDB rules to be enforced from 2015, at plans to do so. “Priority will be the replacement least half of these schools’ students must be of ageing school campuses, such as Island enrolled in the local curriculum, limiting the School, which requires a huge amount of places in their international streams. capital,” she says. Cheung Siu-ming, principal of Creative Early in February 2013, the ESF announced Secondary School, a DSS school in Tseung Kwan revisions to its admissions policy, removing the O that offers IB and HKDSE pathways, notes that priority given to families which indicated in their IB is the more popular of the two in his school. applications that they spoke English as their first Parents are choosing this or GCE A-levels in language. And from 2014, those attending ESF other schools as safety routes, particularly if kindergartens can no longer jump the queue. their children are not strong in the HKDSE’s Pupils will instead be tested for their ability compulsory subjects of mathematics and Chinese. There is a perception that it is far easier to achieve grades in international qualifications that can win them places in local and overseas universities, Cheung adds. Creative Secondary and YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, in Tung Chung, welcome non- Chinese-speaking children. Two-thirds of the YMCA’s students are from overseas, paying fees Ann of up to HK$49,000 for GCE A-level programmes McDonald and from HK$24,500 for Secondary 4 years and below. Both schools are receiving at least double Cheung the number of applications for the Secondary 1 Siu-ming places available. Cheung is proud of the performance of the first cohort to leave his school, with about 20 students admitted to the most competitive local universities, while about 30 successfully applied to the UK, including top London universities. “The moment you do well, you attract the high flyers,” he says. That, however, is a double-edged sword for the places game, if it means turning away the less academic children who Cheung also wants to see thrive in the school. Katherine Forestier

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 11 Arts

As well as providing children with a source of pleasure, artistic activities can also make their future CVs more comprehensive. Photo: Bernice Chan Art beyond art’s sake Creative pursuits help develop useful career and life skills, writes John Brennan

here are many reasons for parents Artistic and creative skills may also play and learning adviser with the ESF. “An apti- to encourage their children’s in- an ever more significant role in preparing tude for critical thinking, problem-solving, terest in artistic and creative en- young people for the professions of the fu- creativity, innovation, and so much more is deavours. Whether these take the ture. In an age where a growing number of needed for our rapidly changing world.” form of music, drama, painting or what were once considered skilled jobs have She believes that a curriculum should not Tdance, these types of activities go beyond the been computerised, the ability to think only focus on the tools necessary to develop traditional academic syllabus. Many parents imaginatively and innovatively will be of in- new knowledge in a subject area, but should and educators believe they can help develop creasing value. also nurture creativity in students. a more rounded personality, provide a “Today, it’s essential that all of our stu- “The essential 21st-century fluencies are source of pleasure that can potentially last a dents have a wide range of skills beyond not only about hardware, they are also about lifetime, and – more prosaically – help tick those that were needed in the 20th century,” head-ware and creative, critical and reflec- more boxes on a CV. says Rebecca Clements, primary teaching tive thinking,” she says. “I believe that we

12 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST have a responsibility to provide students with the tools they need to enter a global economy that is changing exponentially. As educators, we need to encourage learners to Parents can encourage [their children] to take risks both in terms of their artistic appreciate music … Even more effective expression and when they are creating ideas.” would be to get hold of a musical The ESF’s switch to the IB programme instrument themselves and learn together seems only to have reinforced the importance of creativity within its education BRENDA WONG, FOUNDER AND MUSIC CONSULTANT, PERFECT PITCH MUSIC CENTRE system. “Arts are integral to all ESF primary schools and they are built into the curriculum as essential areas of learning,” Clements says. “Through the implementation of the open doors to questions about life and learn- Pitch and a music consultant at the centre, International Baccalaureate Primary Years ing. The process of making and appreciating recognises that many parents see musical Programme, students are required to engage arts is gratifying and will encourage students accomplishment as a way of giving their in a range of performing arts and visual arts to continue creating throughout their lives,” child an edge in the fierce competition for experiences.” she says. school places. The foundation’s arts curriculum en- Opportunities to spark students’ imagi- She also believes, however, that other fac- gages students in creative processes through nations and open their minds to new ways of tors underlie the desire to pick up an instru- which they explore and experiment in a con- thinking can arise in all sorts of places, she ment. tinual cycle of action and reflection. Clem- adds. “Creativity is not considered to be “In recent years, there has been a notice- ents says that learning about and through solely an artistic domain in our primary able increase in demand for music classes arts is fundamental to the development of schools as it appears within all disciplines. from students from a range of ages, espe- the whole child and promotes creativity, crit- An example of this would be using creative cially from those who would like to learn mu- ical thinking, problem-solving skills and thinking to solve a mathematical problem,” sic for leisure and relaxation,” Wong says. social interaction. Clements says. “The parents of young children aged “Exposure to and experience with arts The Perfect Pitch Music Centre in Happy from two to five years who come to our cen- Valley also provides a platform for young- tre tend to be looking for classes that not only sters to flex their creative muscles by offering arouse their children’s interest in music, but extracurricular lessons for budding musi- also place a stress on having fun. cians. “Conversely, parents of older children Children between the ages of two and look for music classes that will provide their four can enrol on the centre’s Sound of Mu- kids with solid knowledge and progression sic and Piano Preparatory class, while for through the skill levels,” he adds. older students, lessons from beginner to di- In Wong’s view, the role parents can play ploma level are available on a wide range of in developing their children’s musical talent instruments and in music-related subjects. and skills goes beyond providing them with Perfect Pitch provides tuition in piano, an instrument and paying for their lessons. violin, viola, cello, flute, oboe, clarinet, sax- “The parents can, for instance, encourage

Photo: ESF ophone, recorder, trumpet, trombone, them to appreciate music and to enjoy the tuba, acoustic guitar, classical guitar process of learning music. Even more effec- and drums, and also in singing, scales, tive would be to get hold of a musical instru- sight-reading and aural-test training. ment themselves and learn together with Brenda Wong, founder of Perfect their children,” she says.

It is essential that all of our students have a range of skills beyond those that were needed in the 20th century

REBECCA CLEMENTS, PRIMARY TEACHING AND LEARNING ADVISER, ESF

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 13 Arts

Rafaella Tung, director of learning at Blooming Buds, believes that play can be thought of as hidden academics. Photo: Blooming Buds

CASE STUDY At Blooming Buds, kids play to learn

essions at Blooming Buds preschool and the foundation for more advanced skill sets, understanding is essential to reading, writing and child-care centre in Sai Ying Pun seem gaining an understanding of how solid facts are mathematics, where there is a use of symbol S designed to blur any artificial boundaries reached and learning how to get there. systems like alphabets and numbers. It also between the playroom and the classroom. “For example, when children play with water stimulates the imagination and strengthens “We love to get messy,” says Rafaella Tung, or experiment with objects that float or sink, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. director of learning at Blooming Buds. “And we they are learning about the scientific art of “Through creative group project work, always have some form of sensory play going on predication and observation.” children gain social competence and emotional in the classroom – whether it is walking around The centre’s philosophy is based on the maturity. Both verbal and non-verbal the classroom after dipping our feet in paint, Reggio Emilia approach to educating the under- communication skills are sharpened through the hollowing out pumpkins for Halloween, or sixes. Developed over 60 years ago in northern practice of negotiation, working through conflicts building snowmen with pretend snow.” Italy, this method has since been successfully and sharing thoughts and ideas. Tung believes that a misunderstanding over adopted in the US, the UK, New Zealand and “Furthermore, in handling different tools and terms may lead some parents to think that such Australia, among other countries. materials during creative activities such as creative activities and play are displacing Within a project-orientated curriculum, drawing, painting, sculpting and woodwork, “proper” learning. children are encouraged to express themselves children are developing dexterity and hand-eye “Parents and educators share the same goal using “The Hundred Languages of Children”. co-ordination.” – they want what is best for children,” she says. These include writing, drawing, painting, Tung believes that while exposure to creative “I think the problem lies in the fact that sculpting, constructing, dramatic play, shadow experiences is valuable at every stage of educators and parents do not share the same play and puppetry – to name just a few. development, the benefits for young children are definition when it comes to the word ‘play’. “There are many benefits associated with unique. “The brain undergoes its most intensive “Play can be thought of as hidden academics. artistic and creative experiences,” Tung says. period of development during early-childhood The beauty of these lessons lies in the fact that “They help to support cognitive, social-emotional years, and there is compelling evidence from they are, in themselves, motivating. Through and physical development. By engaging in studies testifying to the importance of early- hands-on experiences, children are building a creative activities, children are developing childhood education and its impact on future wealth of contextual knowledge – they are laying symbolic and abstract thinking. This learning and development.” John Brennan

14 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST

Play & Learn Workout for young minds 3

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 17 Fettes South China Morning Post.indd 1 07/02/2013 14:07 Fettes.indd 1 18/02/2013 5:06 PM Finance Money matters for kids AISHK and ISF Academy teach fiscal responsibility early, writes Andrea Zavadszky

ne of the most important life “Lessons learned early will help children taught at home, then sadly many children skills people have to start learn- develop valuable life skills,” says Don Somer- will follow their parents into a lifetime of ing when they are young is ville, head of human society and its environ- debt.” financial responsibility and the ment studies at the Australian International Once children reach school age, financial role of money in our lives. A School Hong Kong (AISHK). teaching has to take a two-pronged ap- Ohealthy, serious and responsible attitude to- He adds, however, that “educators can proach involving both the school and par- wards money that goes beyond adding and teach financial knowledge and give students ents. The latter play an extremely important subtracting has to develop in children and the tools to manage their personal finances, role by supporting the school curriculum form the basis of how they deal with their fi- but if positive values towards budgeting and with real-life examples and exercises, and as nances in later life. understanding the value of money is not being role models for their children.

One of the first stages of teaching children about money is getting them to identify local bank notes and coins. Photo: Felix Wong

20 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST their attitude and value judgement about money,” Ching says. Students also need to learn about budg- It is equally important eting, the role and concept of investment, for parents to help and the risks involved. Home discussions

Photo: ISF Academy about why the family is budgeting for certain educate their children things and not for others can be very helpful. about money Parents are also encouraged to take their children to visit their workplaces to help FARRAH CHING, DEAN OF CURRICULUM, ISF ACADEMY them understand that parents work very hard to provide for them. Giving pocket money for a job well done, such as good grades, also reinforces the relationship be- children handle money and pay for goods in tween work and money. supermarkets. Financial mathematics is covered later in Picture books assist parents in explaining ISF Academy’s mathematical studies classes, where the concept of money comes from, which cover areas such as calculating dis- such as how currencies started and devel- counts and interest rates. An argumentative oped through barter trade. essay on financial mathematics is also in- Farrah Ching, dean of curriculum at the As children get older, parents can start cluded in the Grade 5 Chinese curriculum to Independent Schools Foundation (ISF) giving them small amounts of pocket money support students’ learning on the subject. Academy, says that parents often ask about daily, then slowly decreasing the frequency Later, students learn more about money in their role in their children’s financial educa- to weekly to help build up their understand- society through readings given in their Chi- tion. ing of saving. nese language classes. “While our curriculum has units on Children have to understand the value of “Through reading essays and play scripts money and personal finance, it is equally im- money before they can start learning about on the value of money, students consider portant for parents to help educate their chil- electronic money, such as Octopus pay- whether money is everything and what role it dren about money,” she says. “Many teach- ments, Ching says. plays in society,” Ching says. able moments arise when parents spend In Grade 5 at the ISF Academy, a unit It is important for children to start out time with their children.” called “Guided Discovery” goes deeper into with the right attitude towards money and, At the ISF Academy, a gradual familiaris- the subject of money, exploring concepts most importantly, to learn that they cannot ation towards money starts in Grade 1 with such as the role of money, savings and in- expect instant gratification from their par- learning how to identify local bank notes and vestments, and the value judgments we ents. This will help protect them from falling coins. It later organises practical experience make as consumers. into debt later in life when they are given classes and takes young students out to “As consumers, students have to consid- total control over their own spending. supermarkets, where they learn how to read er what kind of goods to buy. They have to It is important they also learn what price tags. Exercises then include finding the think about things such as whether goods money can’t buy. “This is a lesson that is dif- most expensive and cheapest items in the are environmentally friendly or recyclable. ficult to teach because society repeatedly shop. They learn about resources, and that money tells us that money and possessions make us “The children learn the relationship be- is only one of these resources. Through in- happy,” Somerville says. tween the price tag and money, and begin to quiry and discussion, they begin to form “We can only continue to provide stu- think about the concept of budget and what dents with life experiences that teach them to spend money on,” Ching says. that true happiness and well-being does not After students have learned how to read come from the possession of material things, price tags, another exercise sees them being but from time spent with family and friends given HK$20 by their parents and preparing and through other simple pleasures found in a plan on how they will spend the money. life,” he adds. Afterwards, they should also be able to ex- plain how and why they came to their deci- sions. Parents can also help by discussing what to buy and why to choose certain items with their children when they are out shopping. [Financial] lessons “Games like Monopoly also help children to understand the value of money,” Ching learned early will help adds. children develop Once children are entrusted with taking lunch money to school, they begin to under- valuable life skills stand its value and that they have to keep it Photo: AISHK DON SOMERVILLE, HEAD OF HUMAN SOCIETY safe. In the same way, parents should also let AND ITS ENVIRONMENT STUDIES, AISHK

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 21 Finance Photo: iStockphoto

CASE STUDY Valuing ﬁnancial knowledge at HKIS

he value of education is often in preparing budgeting for college costs beyond tuition and students for life by teaching them to think, room and board, such as books, stationery, T reason, debate, articulate their thoughts flights, phone bills, clothing and entertainment. and write logically, rather than to remember They are also given advice on personal historical dates or chemical formulas. banking, where a teacher explains the functions That is why the Hong Kong International of checking and savings accounts, and points out School (HKIS) offers a Senior Transitions Seminar the hidden costs of opening a bank account. for final-year classes in the second semester of Special attention is placed on credit cards, the academic year that prepares students for life with details provided on the variety of charges beyond school. that can be incurred due to annual fees, late “The seminar encourages students to reflect payments, interest rates and finance charges. on their high school experiences, to anticipate Students are also cautioned about the downsides changes ahead, and to develop skills to manage of credit card companies obtaining their personal and enjoy the challenges of college life,” HKIS information. high school counsellor Madeleine McGarrity says. “We recommend students keep records of The seminar covers possible future personal deposits and withdrawals to check against their problems – such as handling difficult situations monthly statements, and that they are aware of with roommates – awareness of personal safety their credit card limit. We also recommend Madeleine McGarrity Photo: HKIS on campuses and surrounding neighbourhoods, budgeting for the semester on a monthly basis the importance of exercise and nutrition, and and keeping track of expenses,” McGarrity says. managing finances. The seminar also gives final-year students a “The discussions begin with students’ current thorough understanding of the importance of experiences on managing their allowances and maintaining a good credit record for the purpose their possible use of credit cards. We talk about of making major purchases in the future, such as how successful they currently are with budgeting buying a car, a house or an apartment. by listing the variety of things they spend money “We also discuss credit card safety issues, on, such as snacks, transportation and clothing,” including how to protect passwords and what McGarrity says. students should do if they lose their card or if it Students receive detailed guidance on is stolen,” McGarrity says. Andrea Zavadszky

22 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST Spring Learning.indd 1 18/02/2013 6:14 PM Languages Young tongues wagging Bilingual skills taught early at Sunshine House and AISHK, reports John Cremer

Providing the right kind of environment and stimulation is of paramount importance when teaching young children to be multilingual. Photo: Bloomberg

24 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST hile well-structured lessons with a clear cultural context play a big part in helping children attain fluency in a The brain absorbs information like a sponge second or third language, up until the age of six. It is much easier Wscience shows the most important factor is to start early. to be multilingual if you start early From birth – and even before – the hu- KAREN FERRIS COLE, DIRECTOR, SUNSHINE HOUSE INTERNATIONAL PRE-SCHOOL GROUP man brain assimilates sounds and interprets voices. It takes in everything, firing neurons at a phenomenal rate to sort words, order, tones and rhythms and then, by some kind of opment. These include classes conducted in More afternoon sessions “with mums” miracle, starts to make sense of it all. both English and Putonghua, where key are also being introduced to provide flexibil- “Children have the capacity to learn sev- points are immediately repeated in the other ity and meet overall demand. At present, the eral languages at one time,” says Karen Ferris language, and a curriculum that combines trend is very clearly towards bilingual teach- Cole, director of the Sunshine House Inter- formal study with activities that encourage ing, with English-only classes gradually national Pre-school Group. “The optimal pe- freer interaction. being phased out. riod is from nought to 2.2 years old, but the Teachers are also trained to use “paren- “We believe children thrive on structure, brain absorbs information like a sponge up tese”, a type of voice and manner of speaking but also on freedom of choice,” Cole says. until the age of six. It is much easier to be which is slower, slightly higher-pitched and “We teach them social skills, such as greeting multilingual if you start early, but proficiency repeats key phrases – supposedly the best each other, and stories with actions that also depends on the environment the child is way of talking to young children. show ‘things we must do’, like sharing toys. in and the kind of stimulation it receives.” “We run with various themes throughout But there are also creative areas for students She explains that children are generally the year which bring in aspects of culture to do their own artwork, and we make sure born into homes where there is a predomi- and what families are doing,” Cole says. “For teachers don’t finish things for them.” nant language – or sometimes two – and the teaching points on Chinese New Year, The Australian International School learning takes place through immersion. children sing songs in Mandarin and are Hong Kong (AISHK) similarly looks to maxi- Sunshine House aims to replicate that pro- taught what the [festival] is about and what it mise the advantage younger learners have cess as closely as possible. means. They are introduced to the food typi- when acquiring language skills by making It has bilingual classes for one- to two- cally eaten – and talk about it in both lan- Putonghua a compulsory subject for all pu- year-olds where accompanying mums also guages – and might do a lion dance as part of pils from Kindergarten level to Year 6. get the chance to learn a new language. From their arts and crafts class.” The English-medium school provides a the age of two to six, lessons include teaching The themes and traditions of Easter fol- Putonghua lesson a day, with classes initially techniques identified and recommended by low, taking in everything from painting eggs focusing on speaking and listening skills, and experts in the field of early childhood devel- to telling stories to translating songs. All the moving on in stages to reading and writing activities are designed to stimulate interac- characters and introducing various aspects tion and communication. of Chinese tradition and culture. “We want children to be involved in the For practical purposes, there is some world around them and to bring that into the streaming from Year 2 to take account of dif- school,” Cole says. “Doing that gives them so ferent family backgrounds, aptitude and many things to talk about and to take in on a proficiency. This also makes it possible to sensory level.” gear courses more towards communication Feedback from parents influences the or literacy, and to assign students according introduction of new classes. Bilingual to individual needs. French-Cantonese lessons are already on the “We try to have the whole Putonghua les- way, while English-Cantonese and English- son in Chinese as much as possible, and to French classes are also a future possibility. link themes and vocabulary to what the students are learning in history or other subjects,” says Leonie Drew, co-head of school and primary principal at AISHK. “We also have pinyin and characters on signs around the school to encourage familiarity.” We try to link themes To give students more opportunity to use and vocabulary Putonghua, teachers hold extension activities before school. This usually involves to what the students small groups and impromptu conversation. are learning in history “You need true immersion to become or other subjects fully bilingual,” Drew says. “It is important to take every opportunity to practise the lan- Photo: AISHK LEONIE DREW, CO-HEAD OF SCHOOL, AISHK guage.”

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 25 Languages

CASE STUDY Kellett welcomes early Putonghua learning

With Mandarin set to become increasingly important on a global scale, Kellett believes an early start to its study is essential. Photo: Reuters

26 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST hile some parents may still question plays, songs and rhymes. Teachers also use arts the rationale of learning Putonghua at and crafts, cultural talks, and projects linked to W an English-medium primary school, events and festivals to broaden students’ the vast majority sees and supports the logic. vocabulary and get them to exchange ideas and There are the scientific reasons that information, while computers are also used conclusively show that the earlier children start where appropriate to add variety and enhance to learn a language, the better. For those who classroom interaction. want more evidence, there is a lengthening list of On the way to Primary 6, the course solid justifications that range from economic to progressively introduces structures and words to cultural considerations to the plain common deal with all kinds of day-to-day situations. For sense of achieving fluency in China’s national example, students learn how to express feelings language which is spoken by around one-fifth of and appropriate emotions, as well as how to the world’s population. obtain and convey information. In doing this, “Putonghua is one of the official working they also develop awareness of what it takes to languages of the United Nations and is also make friends at school and to socialise in the recognised as one of the fastest-growing wider community. languages in the world,” says David Wu, head of “Children become familiar with similarities Chinese studies at Kellett School, the British and differences in ways of thinking and the international school. “The aim of our programme patterns of behaviour in their own and other David Wu Photo: Kellett School is to teach students skills in communicating, cultures,” Wu says. “They develop a socio-cultural understanding, and positive values receptiveness and willingness to learn, and gain Putonghua will be increasingly important for and attitudes about the Chinese language.” personal satisfaction through being able to use engaging in cultural, academic, artistic, At Kellett School, children learn to read and Chinese and by building up their knowledge of commercial, industrial and diplomatic write simplified characters from Reception level, vocabulary and language structure. enterprises on an international scale. Seen like though overall the curriculum places more “It is important for students to know about that, the social benefits of learning languages emphasis on developing listening and speaking the people whose language they are learning,” extend beyond the individual to include society skills. This is done through games, stories, role- Wu says. “If you think ahead, knowledge of as a whole.” John Cremer

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY AWAITS YOUR CHILD Known for its holistic approach to education, Renaissance College has decided to add one class at each year level for students born in 2003 and 2004.

With only 28 vacancies, this is a rare opportunity to give your child seamless entry through to secondary school and on to achieving the highly esteemed IB Diploma.

We are now accepting applications online.

Act now to reserve your place and to secure your child’s future!

Enquiries: [email protected] or 3556 3556 Application: www.rchk.edu.hk/admissions Classes will commence in August 2013

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 27 Maths & Science

Educators say teachers and parents can use ‘personal numbers’ and daily phenomenon – such as age, birthdays, sunlight and even food preparation – to introduce their children to numeric and abstract concepts. Photo: AP

A head for numbers Kids absorb abstract concepts via simple tasks and play, reports Chris Davis

rom buying a DVD to paying for a riculum to integrate these subjects into other that have personal meaning. This can be school trip to following a recipe, areas of learning to create exciting cross-cur- their age, which – like their name – becomes mathematics and science are ricular opportunities,” Jarrett says. part of their identity. Parents and Anfield essential life skills. According to She believes that simply telling children staff also make Maths Rhyme Bags and professional educators, the way what to do inhibits understanding. “At An- Maths Rhyme Boxes to support children’s Fthat mathematics and science are taught to field, our success in teaching mathematics mathematical development. young learners can make a significant differ- and science to our kindergarten students lies Jarrett believes that all children have a ence to the way children engage with the in our teachers’ ability to ensure there are natural ability to understand the concepts of topics and relate them to their surroundings. regular practical opportunities within the maths and science through play and other Citing the Early Years phase of the Na- continuous provision of the learning centres, ways that are meaningful to them. tional Curriculum of England and Wales that along with regular and timely enhance- “I have yet to meet a child who is not fas- the school uses as a framework, Anfield ments,” Jarrett says. cinated by a mini-beast found in the Anfield International Kindergarten principal Denise She points out that parents and teachers Kindergarten garden, or the flowers that fall Jarrett says creativity and critical thinking are need to find ways to constantly ensure there daily from the tree or the magnificence of a integral to embracing the concepts of math- are opportunities for children to explore, spider’s web. Nor, indeed, a child who is not ematics and science. talk, enjoy, learn and practise their develop- delighted by a personal-interest number, or “Although skills, language and concepts ing concepts and understanding. counting the stairs up to the classroom,” Jar- in mathematics and science must often be For example, children are fascinated with rett says. taught explicitly, we strive to design our cur- the numbers in their lives, particularly those A hands-on approach to stimulate

28 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST interest in maths and science is also in place at Renaissance College, where primary school vice-principal and primary years programme (PYP) co-ordinator Jacqueline The challenge for Harmer says efforts are made to connect teachers and parents topics to the real world. “Maths and science should be stimulat- is to make all areas ing, relevant and challenging. The process of

of learning appealing College Photo: Renaissance scientific inquiry is guided and modelled by our teachers through hands-on work, which JACQUELINE HARMER, PRIMARY SCHOOL inspires students,” Harmer says. VICE-PRINCIPAL, RENAISSANCE COLLEGE Through the PYP curriculum’s transdisciplinary framework, scientific concepts are taught both in context and without the cepts through the learning cycle of con- boundaries of science as a subject area. structing, transferring and applying. “How- For example, Harmer says, learning ever, we also teach specific skills and knowl- about the concept of sound through science edge and these can then be applied in other can increase students’ understanding of how areas of learning,” Harmer says. “While fun is music is played and how sounds can be ma- not our main goal, as educators we realise nipulated to create different notes and vol- that fun equals engagement, and with en- umes. gagement and participation, there is more parative concepts, such as some things being Similarly, Harmer adds, the PYP ap- likely to be learning.” heavier, lighter, longer and shorter than oth- proach to maths is an effective tool for solv- Harmer explains that at Renaissance Col- ers. After hands-on engagement with the ing problems and understanding more lege, teachers use play to stimulate learning materials, including guided experimentation about the real world. “Maths as a tool is in science among the school’s youngest stu- and science play, students are challenged to essential for many science experiments that dents. solve a problem with the materials, applying require calculating, measuring, recording “One of the science units in Year 1 is de- what they have learned. and displaying data, so the two can be inte- signed around understanding why we Harmer also believes parents can help to grated together,” she says. choose materials for particular jobs, which encourage their children’s interest in maths Where practical, maths is taught within involves students comparing materials in and science by exploring the environment in the transdisciplinary units of inquiry, with mathematical ways,” Harmer says. which they live. the aim to develop an understanding of con- For instance, students learn about com- Keep it simple and interactive, Harmer suggests, such as watching the way materials change through cooking, heating, cooling, mixing and dissolving. “This is also a great opportunity to develop measurement skills in a real-life context,” she says. Parents and children can also observe how plants, humans and animals change over long periods of time. Other basic, but fun, activities can include playing shadow games at different times of day, as well as recording seasonal changes by keeping a weather chart and then making predictions. “The challenge for teachers and parents is to make all areas of learning appealing,” Harmer says.

I have yet to meet a child ... who is not delighted by ... counting the stairs

DENISE JARRETT, PRINCIPAL, Photo: Anfield ANFIELD INTERNATIONAL KINDERGARTEN

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2013 PARENTS' GUIDE 29 Maths & Science

CASE STUDY Rooting for knowledge at Garden House

Garden House students learn about and embrace science and maths through creative activities such as baking (left) and weaving. Photos: Garden House

etting a table with cutlery and snacks may much on an acquisition of information, but more seem like an unconventional way of on children’s engagement with what they learn,” S introducing pre-school children to the Bennett says. concept of maths, but at Garden House, Garden House, which currently has 130 early knowledge is all about unconsciously learning childhood students, is committed to providing an through action. environment where children develop a passion “Whether counting the toys they play with or for knowledge without the pressure of rankings setting a table for teachers and friends, children and exams. Bennett says children indirectly are making calculations,” says Cannie Bennett, engage with academic subjects such as maths founder and director of Garden House. “With their and science through a broad range of art, music teachers, children test and discover new ways of and craft activities. Every week, for example, working with the physical world around them.” kindergarten children make their own bread. Located in Clearwater Bay near Silverstrand This way, they are able to see the interaction Beach, Garden House uses the Waldorf Early between flour, yeast, water and sugar. Years Education Curriculum, which encourages “The feedback we receive from parents is young children to learn the fundamentals of rewarding and motivating,” Bennett says. “They maths, science and other academic topics tell us their children are independent, confident, Cannie Bennett through hands-on activities. Bennett says Garden inquisitive, happy and relaxed. They say that House offers practical activities that encourage because their children are used to stimulating children to instinctively explore these areas. activities at school, they even enjoy helping with “Learning in early childhood is characterised chores at home.” by experiences. Through play activities, young Many parents want their children to begin children naturally acquire skills such as using computers and smartphones as early as questioning, analysing and reasoning,” Bennett possible, but Bennett advises caution. “I believe says. pre-school children can learn in a more Garden House’s pre-school and kindergarten meaningful and beneficial way through physical classes encourage vigorous, hands-on learning. activities than they can through technological The Waldorf education path, on which the classes devices,” she says. are based, was developed by Rudolf Steiner in In addition to classrooms that have been the early 20th century and focuses on a “voyage designed to inspire imagination and creativity, of discovery”. To lead children on this voyage, Garden House also has a garden with pets, herbs teachers at Garden House act as role models in a and flowers, and a nearby garden farm where variety of teacher-directed activities. teachers and children grow vegetables and can “We believe that young children learn more unconsciously interact with different areas of in an environment where the emphasis is not so science. Chris Davis

30 PARENTS' GUIDE SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST Creating a love of learning in Kowloon Bay Kellett School, The British International School in Hong Kong, is an English National Curriculum School.

Kellett School is now accepting applications for the Senior School and A-Level programme at the new Kowloon Bay campus, opening in September 2013.

For applications and further information visit www.kellettschool.com or email [email protected] Now Accepting Senior School and A Level Applications