Best IB Schools In Hong Kong And Understanding The IB Curriculum

WHAT IS THE IB CURRICULUM?

So, let's get factual. The International Baccalaureate (IB) consists of 4 programmes of international education covering learners aged 3-19. All levels are built on IB's core values of holism and sustainability, a winning combination when you are on a mission to change the world at large in the best way possible. Through cherishing children's inherent curiosity and openness and turning it into the knowledge of how to navigate and embrace the life-long process of learning, appreciate and understand the beauty of the world's diversity and complexity, be proactively kind to others and our planet, form communities and grow as individuals. The organization develops its educational programs and assessment systems in partnership with schools, obviously, but also governments and international organizations. Programs are flexible regarding catering to local differences and recognizing different contexts and circumstances into which their curriculum is employed, yet at the same time serve as the ultimate springboard for catapulting their learners into the possibilities of studying at prestigious universities abroad.

Across the world and its 4 programs, IB never puts kids in boxes, but shows them all the different kinds of boxes there are and lets them play, explore, think for themselves and maybe create their own, unique boxes too. They are informative, not definitive, and this is why they bring out the best in their learners of all ages—because authenticity is a necessary condition of true, sustainable, beneficial excellence and advocacy.

PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME (PYP): 3 - 12 Years

The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) is designed for children aged 3-12. It views learners, teachers, and parents as a community that, together, shares unique bodies of knowledge and strengthens one another's motivation, enthusiasm for education, and love for the world we live in.

The curriculum is challenging and rigorous, but also singularly engaging and relevant. Children take responsibility for their learning, discover their personal values, and learn to approach and navigate the unpredictability of the global world.

Primary Years Programme (PYP) - IB Curriculum: Click here for more info about the curriculum, teaching techniques, and principles & practices of assessment of the IB PYP programme.

MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMME (MYP): 11 - 16 Years

The Middle Years Programme is designed for students aged 11 - 16 and builds on the skills and attitudes gained through the IB MYP, preparing them for the rigors of subsequent stages of IB education. It extends beyond the classroom's 4 walls by pairing students' theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice.

You don't have to be an education expert to know that the conditions of the real world are the most challenging of teachers. As they learn by doing, they intensify their hunger for intellectual growth and exploration and also develop humility, responsibility, reflection, and the ability to learn from their mistakes!

Middle Years Programme (MYP) - IB Curriculum: Click here for more info about the curriculum, teaching techniques, and principles & practices of assessment of the IB MYP programme.

DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (DP): 16 -19 Years

The Diploma Programme enables young, exceptional people aged 16 - 19 to delve deeper into the knowledge the world has to offer and develop their being on all levels—physically, intellectually, emotionally, and ethically.

The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum offers an exciting and enriching educational experience for students, featuring six engaging subject groups paired with the essential DP core. This core comprises Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), and the Extended Essay, all designed to inspire deep thinking and personal growth.

Study at least two languages and participate in the unique theory of knowledge course, which goes all meta on them and prepares them for further ventures into academic excellence by teaching them, implicitly and through practice, how to organize their time and manage their workloads. They also expand their capacity for awesomeness by completing independent research and undertaking a (community) project!

Diploma Program (DP) - IB Curriculum: Click here for more info about the curriculum, teaching techniques, and principles & practices of assessment of the IB DP programme.

CAREER-RELATED PROGRAM (CP): 16 - 19 Years

IB decided to be even more specific and offered a separate program for those focusing on career-related education. The CP is slightly less meta and more practical, preparing students well for apprenticeships, employment, and higher education.

The program for students aged 16 - 19 offers chances for meaningful, practical achievements, invaluable collaborations, self-direction, and infinitely more. It combines courses from the Diploma Programme with a CP core, providing them with a distinctive entrepreneurial twist.

Career-Related Programme (CP) - IB Curriculum: Click here for more info about the curriculum, teaching techniques, and principles & practices of assessment of the IB CP program .

THE ENGLISH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION (ESF): International Schools Offering PYP, MYP & DP Or IGCSE In Hong Kong

Hong Kong is home to 22 diverse ESF schools, three of which offer a complete educational journey through the IB PYP, MYP, and DP programmes.

ESF's Discovery College is one of the only two schools in Hong Kong to offer all IB programs. ESF's Sha Tin College offers MYP, DP, and CP and believes that holistic learning involves engaging with the community. Another member of the ESF, Renaissance College, is the second school in Hong Kong to offer all IB programs (PYP, MYP, DP, and CP). Last but not least, the Island School also offers MYP, DP, and CP.

But all ESF schools are accredited IB institutions, ensuring a high-quality international education that empowers students from day one. Additionally, ESF includes a specialist school dedicated to supporting primary and secondary students with special needs, as well as mainstream schools that provide a range of support services. This commitment to inclusivity helps all students thrive in their unique educational paths!

• Apply: Click here

The English Schools Foundation, www.esf.edu.hk

All-Through Schools:

• Discovery College, Discovery Bay, Hong Kong, www.discovery.edu.hk
• Renaissance College, Ma On Shan, Kowloon, www.rchk.edu.hk
• Jockey Club Sarah Roe School (JCSRS), Ho Man Tin, Hong Kong, www.jcsrs.edu.hk *Special Needs

Kindergartens:

• Abacus, Hillside, Tsing Yi, Wu Kai Sha, and Tung Chung, www.esf.edu.hk/kindergartens
• ESF Primary Schools, Beacon Hill, Bradbury, Clearwater Bay School, Glenealy, Kennedy, Kowloon Junior, Peak, Quarry Bay, Sha Tin, www.esf.edu.hk/primary
• ESF Secondary Schools, Island School, King George V, Sha Tin College, South Island School, West Island School, www.esf.edu.hk/secondary

YEW CHUNG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (YCIS HONG KONG): International School In Hong Kong Offering DP

Established in 1932, Yew Chung International School (YCIS Hong Kong) has been at the forefront of delivering quality bilingual education for over 90 years. The Early Childhood Education section prioritizes whole-child development, embedding 12 core values and fostering a nurturing bilingual learning environment. Evolving from its initial focus on Early Childhood Education, YCIS now provides a comprehensive education spanning from early childhood through primary and secondary levels.

The Primary section emphasizes academic excellence, cross-cultural understanding, and proficiency in English and Chinese. Campuses are dynamic centers of education, fostering character development, integrity, and positive values. The Secondary section offers the IGCSE and IB Diploma Programme, ensuring students not only achieve their highest academic potential but also develop into successful learners, confident individuals, responsible global citizens, and caring contributors, well-prepared for their future paths.

• Want to apply? Click here

Yew Chung International School of Hong Kong (YCIS Hong Kong), 3 To Fuk Road, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, +852 2338 7106, admissions@ycef.com, www.ycis-hk.com/en

CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HONG KONG (CDNIS): International School In Hong Kong Offering PYP, MYP & DP

One of the leading schools in Southeast Asia, Canadian International School of Hong Kong (CDNIS) is an IB World School fully authorized to deliver the International Baccalaureate's Diploma, Middle Years, and Primary Years Programmes. As CDNIS celebrates its 35th anniversary, it's time to reflect on the values and virtues that have fueled its achievements—most importantly, the success of its students!

While foundational skills are necessary, so are 21st-century competencies and character development. To further enhance this, they have a 1:1 robotics program, and the digital aspect of students' daily lives is also covered (e.g., 1:1 student iPads from first grade). Another highlight of this school is its Leo Lee Arts Centre, which emphasizes its performing and visual arts.

• Want to apply? Click here

Canadian International School of Hong Kong, 36 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, +852 25257088, admissions@cdnis.edu.hk, www.cdnis.edu.hk

HONG KONG ACADEMY: International School Offering PYP, MYP, DP

HKA has earned a stellar reputation over the past 25 years for providing an exceptional, student-centered education that inspires students to learn, grow, and achieve their fullest potential. Catering to children ages 2 to 18, the school features expert teachers who engage and motivate students within an award-winning, eco-friendly campus nestled in picturesque Sai Kung. Here, students not only receive a top-notch education but also flourish in a nurturing environment designed for exploration and discovery!

Offering PYP, MYP, and DP, the school prides itself as a leader in inclusive education. The school provides a learning environment that celebrates and integrates children with diverse learning needs into the mainstream classroom. This is done via their learner support philosophy and inclusive teaching.

• Want to apply? Click here

Hong Kong Academy, 33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, +852 2655 1111, admissions@hkacademy.edu.hk, hkacademy.edu.hk

CARMEL SCHOOL: International School In Hong Kong Offering PYP, MYP, DP

A Jewish school in Hong Kong, Carmel School, has three separate locations: Holly Rofé Early Learning Centre for the early years, Carmel Elementary Campus, and Elsa High School Campus. And though they offer PYP, MYP, and DP, the school's ethos revolves around Jewish values and traditions.

They have a Hebrew library at the high school and also publish a Hebrew book recommendation article in their weekly newspaper. Not to mention that they also have a Hebrew book club. They are also members of the ISSFHK, which emphasizes sports and camaraderie. Their robotics program is also exemplary - they are the only school in Hong Kong that is participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC).

• Want to apply? Click here

Carmel School Hong Kong, +852 36655388, admin@carmel.edu.hk, www.carmel.edu.hk

• Holly Rofe Early Learning Center: Jewish Community Center, Level 3, One Robinson Place, 70 Robinson Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, +852 2249 7690, jccadmin@carmel.edu.hk
• Elsa High School, 460 Shau Kei Wan Road, Shau Kei Wan, Hong Kong, +852 36655399, elsahighschool@carmel.edu.hk
• Carmel Elementary and Pre-school, 10 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, +852 28134121,  brcadmin@carmel.edu.hk

VICTORIA SHANGHAI ACADEMY: International School In Hong Kong Offering PYP, MYP, DP

Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA) is a renowned IB World School located in Shum Wan, next to Aberdeen Harbour. With a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning, VSA fosters holistic student development. With a 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio, Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA) offers PYP, MYP, and DP. In the PYP program, students are encouraged to initiate the action. The MYP students are guided by service as action, and the DP students participate in the CAS (Creativity, Activity & Service) program.

The school promotes international-mindedness and cultural awareness through bilingualism. All of their students will graduate as biliterate learners of Putonghua and English. In addition, students entering the DP will have an additional language, either French or Spanish, taking into account their university applications. They also have a 1-to-1 MacBook program in MYP and DP.

• Apply: Click here

Victoria Shanghai Academy, 19 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, +852 3402 1000, www.vsa.edu.hk

ELCHK LUTHERAN ACADEMY: International School In Hong Kong Offering PYP, MYP

Founded by the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Kong, the Lutheran Academy first offered DP in 2014, PYP in 2018, and MYP in 2019. Though offering the IB curriculum, the school also introduced a 'Glocalized' Curriculum to its students. Simply put, they want to combine the best of both international and local curricula. One of the salient points to consider when choosing this school is its focus on providing a Christian education. The school also has a career and planning team that assists its graduating students with their post-high school plans.

LA is also proud of its diverse extracurricular activities, spanning sports and the arts, which enhance the overall student experience.

• Want to apply? Click here

ELCHK Lutheran Academy, 25 Lam Hau Tsuen Road, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong, +852 82082092, info@luac.edu.hk, www.luac.edu.hk

DIOCESAN BOYS' SCHOOL HONG KONG: International School In Hong Kong Offering DP

At Diocesan Boys' School in Hong Kong, tradition and innovation converge to create a dynamic learning environment. This prestigious all-boys school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, along with a unique Bridging Year Programme designed to enhance academic excellence and develop leadership qualities in students.

The expansive campus is equipped with cutting-edge facilities that support a wide range of interests and activities, from robotics to participation in the Chinese orchestra. This enables students to pursue a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities, fostering both their intellectual and creative potential.

• Want to apply? Click here

Diocesan Boys' School, 131, Argyle Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +85227685609, dbsibadm@dbs.edu.hk, www.ib.dbs.edu.hk

ST PAUL'S CO-EDUCATIONAL COLLEGE: International School In Hong Kong Offering DP

Since its founding in 1915, St Paul's Co-educational College has consistently offered a distinctive blend of Eastern and Western educational philosophies through its implementation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The institution champions a bilingual education system that not only equips students for the demands of a globalized society but also ensures they remain deeply connected to their Chinese heritage.

In its curriculum, the school offers both the local Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), giving students the flexibility to choose a path that best suits their educational and career aspirations.

• Want to apply? Click here

St Paul's Co-educational College, 33 MacDonnell Road, Hong Kong, 85225231187, adminoffice@spcc.edu.hk, www.spcc.edu.hk

NORD ANGLIA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: International School Offering DP & The British National Curriculum In Hong Kong

Nord Anglia International School (NAIS) Hong Kong offers an exciting pathway for students aged 16 to 19 through its IB Diploma Programme! This two-year journey immerses students in a world-class curriculum that promotes critical thinking and global awareness. With a variety of subjects to choose from, students can tailor their studies to reflect their passions, while engaging in core components such as the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

At NAIS, the focus is on developing confident, curious, and compassionate individuals ready to tackle real-world challenges. With a strong emphasis on personalized learning and support, students are equipped to excel academically and grow as global citizens. The school offers the most respected and robust educational programs through collaborations with MIT and Juilliard, delivered in some of the best facilities in Hong Kong.

• Want to apply? Click here

NAIS Hong Kong, +852 3958 1428, www.nais.hk

• NAIS Hong Kong Primary Campus: 11 On Tin Street, Lam Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong
• NAIS Hong Kong Secondary Campus: 19 Yuet Wah Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
• Nord Anglia - Early Years: Red Hill Plaza, Red Hill Road, Tai Tam, Hong Kong
• Nord Anglia - Early Years: 285 Hong Kin Road, Tui Min Hoi, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong

FRENCH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HONG KONG: International School Offering IBDP & BP, French Curriculum, English Curriculum, IGCSE In Hong Kong

French International School (FIS) provides its students aged 16 to 19 with an enriching IB Diploma Programme for combining rigorous academic training with a unique bilingual approach. In the International Stream, students have the opportunity to excel in their studies while developing proficiency in both French and English, preparing them for a global future.

The IB Bilingual Diploma is a standout feature, allowing learners to engage deeply with diverse subjects while honing their language skills. FIS fosters a stimulating environment where critical thinking and creativity thrive, encouraging students to become confident, compassionate global citizens.

• Apply Here For International Stream: admissions@lfis.edu.hk

French International School of Hong Kong, www.fis.edu.hk

- International Stream: +852 2892 3677, admissions@lfis.edu.hk

• Blue Pool Road Campus (Year 7-13), 165 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, www.fis.edu.hk/campuses/blue-pool-road
• Tseung Kwan O Campus (Nursery - Year 6), 28 Tong Yin Street, Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong,  +852 3618 7200,  www.fis.edu.hk/campuses/tseung-kwan-o
• Chai Wan Campus (Nursery - Year 1), 1 Cheung Man Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong, +852 2975 1503, www.fis.edu.hk/campuses/chai-wan
• Jardine's Lookout Campus (Year 2-6), 34 Price Road, Jardine's Lookout, Hong Kong, +852 2894 1104, www.fis.edu.hk/campuses/jardines-lookout

STAMFORD AMERICAN SCHOOL HONG KONG: Offering American Curriculum, IBDP And American High School Diploma In Hong Kong

• Want to apply? Click here

Stamford American School - Hong Kong, +852 2500 8688, admissions@sais.edu.hk, www.sais.edu.hk

• Ho Man Tin Campus (Elementary and Middle School): 25 Man Fuk Road, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon
• West Kowloon Campus (High School): G/F - 2/F, Imperial Cullinan, 10 Hoi Fai Road, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon

CHINESE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (CIS): International School In Hong Kong Island Offering IB MYP & Bilingual Curriculum

• Apply: Click here

Chinese International School (CIS), 1 Hau Yuen Path, Braemar Hill, Hong Kong, +852 2510 7288, www.cis.edu.hk

AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG: International School Offering IBDP, Australian Curriculum, & NSW HSC In Hong Kong

• Apply: Click here

Australian International School, 3A Norfolk Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 23046078, info@aishk.edu.hk, www.aishk.edu.hk

SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (SIS): International School Offering IB DP, IGCSE & Bilingual Program In Hong Kong

• Apply: Click here

Singapore International School, www.singapore.edu.hk

• Preparatory Years and Primary Campus: 23 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, +852 2872 0266, general@singapore.edu.hk
• Secondary Campus: 2 Police School Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, +852 2919 6966, secondary@singapore.edu.hk,

KIANGSU-CHEKIANG COLLEGE: International School Offering International Baccalaureate (IB) In Hong Kong

• Apply: Click here

Kiangsu-Chekiang College, 20-24 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 2771 1376, info@kcis.edu.hk, www.kcis.edu.hk

JAPANESE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (JIS): International School Offering PYP And IB Curriculum

• Apply: Click here

Japanese International School, 4663 Tai Po Road, Tai Po Kau, Tai Po, Hong Kong,+852 2834 3531, esinfo@jis.edu.hk, www.es.jis.edu.hk

LI PO CHUN UNITED WORLD COLLEGE (LPCUWC): International School Offering In IBDP Hong Kong

• Apply: Click here

Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong, 10 Lok Wo Sha Lane, Sai Sha Road, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, +852 2640 0441, office@lpcuwc.edu.hk, www.lpcuwc.edu.hk