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ESF Introduces New ‘Associated School’ Model For Kindergartens
K1 To Y13 Guaranteed Pathway Starting In 2027
Starting September 2026, families applying for a K1 place at an ESF kindergarten will benefit from a groundbreaking change in Hong Kong’s largest provider of English-medium international education. The English Schools Foundation (ESF) has announced that its kindergartens will now be directly linked with associated primary schools. This strategic move completes ESF’s ‘through-train’ model, providing families with certainty and continuity from K1 through to secondary school graduation in Year 13.
Under the new Associated School model, parents will know their child’s full educational pathway as early as kindergarten. Students completing the kindergarten phase will be guaranteed a primary school place at one of the associated ESF primary schools, continuing seamlessly to an ESF secondary school.
Alongside clarity and peace of mind for families, schools within the ESF network will share resources, specialist teachers, and support services, leading to a more unified education system. The enhanced collaboration between kindergarten and primary schools ensures that children’s learning transitions—from early years to later phases—become a natural progression, eliminating the disruptions typically associated with school changes.
The new model will apply to families applying for a K1 spot in the 2027/28 school year. The list of kindergarten-primary-secondary linkages, such as Hillside International Kindergarten being associated with Bradbury School and South Island School, ensures a fully mapped-out pathway for current and future students.
By completing its through-train model, ESF has taken a major step toward fulfilling its mission to provide families with a world-class and unified educational experience—one that nurtures students from their first day in kindergarten to their final year of secondary school.
ESF Educational Pathway for K1 in 2027/28 and onwards:
| ESF Kindergarten | Associated ESF Primary School | Associated ESF Secondary School |
|---|---|---|
| Hillside International Kindergarten | Bradbury School | South Island School |
| Glenealy School | Island School | |
| Peak School | ||
| Wu Kai Sha International Kindergarten | Sha Tin Junior School | Sha Tin College |
| Beacon Hill School | Island School | |
| Tsing Yi International Kindergarten | Kowloon Junior School | King George V School |
| Beacon Hill School | Island School | |
| Discovery College | Discovery College | Discovery College |
| West Kowloon Kindergarten | Clearwater Bay School | King George V School |
| Kennedy School | West Island School | |
| Quarry Bay School Kindergarten | Quarry Bay School | South Island School |
| Renaissance College Kindergarten | Renaissance College | Renaissance College |
What is the new early years approach at ESF in Hong Kong?
ESF’s new approach offers a seamless K1 to Y13 through-train. Starting September 2026, K1 families get linked primary schools with a guaranteed place after kindergarten, plus established secondary links for full educational certainty and smooth transitions.
How does the ESF kindergarten through-train pathway work?
Each ESF kindergarten connects to specific primary schools (and then secondaries). Principals align curriculum with joint play sessions and experience days. Parents know the full journey upfront, creating a consistent, supportive 15-year path for your child.
When should I apply for K1 at ESF kindergartens?
Applications for K1 open 1-30 September the year before entry (e.g., September 2026 for August 2027 start). Children born in 2024 are the first full cohort benefiting from the new guaranteed pathways to Year 1 in 2029.
Which primary schools are linked to ESF kindergartens?
Examples include Quarry Bay Kindergarten to Quarry Bay School, Wu Kai Sha to Sha Tin Junior/Beacon Hill, and others with allocated class numbers. Check the interactive map on the ESF Early Years page for your preferred location.
Does ESF support children with additional needs in early years?
Yes. ESF provides collaborative support from K1, with Enhanced Transition Plans in K2 and options like Jockey Club Sarah Roe School if needed. Teams work closely with families for successful primary transitions.
Why Little Steps Loves It:
This model brings certainty and continuity, allowing teachers across kindergarten and primary to collaborate closely on each child’s unique learning style. Parents gain peace of mind knowing their little one’s educational journey is secure within ESF’s world-class system.
Who It's Perfect For:
Families with children aged 3+ seeking a stable, high-quality English-medium international education in Hong Kong. Ideal for expat and local families who value seamless transitions and long-term planning.
What Else:
The change enhances resource sharing, specialist support, and smoother transitions between phases. ESF’s 24 schools continue to inspire curious minds through personalized learning and a wide range of after-school activities.
Where To Find It:
- ESF Introduces New ‘Associated School’
- https://join-us.esf.edu.hk/earlyyearsnewapproach/
Additional Info:
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