Whilst there is a wide choice of international schools in the Hong Kong education landscape, Australian international schools are often underestimated. This school in Kowloon Tong has been established since 1995 and is committed to providing a holistic approach to education that follows the Australian school system. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what makes this school so unique and what are the pathways to further education.

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• Introduction: Why choose an international school?
• The Establishment and History of Australian International Schools
• Location and Campus Facilities
• Academic Structure and School Year Arrangement
• Play-based Learning in Early Childhood Education
• Academic Structure Options at Secondary Level
• Culinary Techniques and Creativity Programme
• School's Academic Achievement and IB Programme
• Pathways: not only in Australia
• Extracurricular Activities and Sports Achievements
• The Fusion of Technology and Art
• Emphasis on Language Learning
• School Culture and Student Development
• Social System and Student Leadership
• Application Process and Admission Requirements
• Conclusion: The Unique Value of Australian International Schools
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction: Why choose an international school?

In recent years, more and more Hong Kong parents are choosing to send their children to international schools. There are several key reasons behind this trend:

• Whole Person Development Educational Philosophy:International schools generally emphasise the holistic development of students, focusing not only on academic achievement but also on social skills, creativity and leadership.
• An international perspective:International schools provide a multi-cultural environment which helps to develop students' international outlook and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Bilingual education environment:Most international schools provide a quality English teaching environment and also emphasise on Chinese language education to provide students with a good language foundation for their future development.
• Advantages of further studies:The curriculum and learning mode of international schools are more in line with the requirements of overseas universities, which is conducive to applying for prestigious overseas schools after graduation.

The Establishment and History of Australian International Schools

Established in Hong Kong in 1995, Australian International School is a through-train international school offering education from kindergarten to senior secondary level. As one of the few schools in Hong Kong to offer the Australian curriculum, it provides students with unique educational options.

School Features

• Australian-style education:The school adopts the Australian curriculum, providing students with the same educational experience as that of Australian schools.
• Whole Person Development:Emphasis is placed on academic achievement, athletic development, artistic talent, and leadership.
• Multicultural environment:Students come from different countries and cultures, which helps to cultivate an international perspective.

Location and Campus Facilities

Australian International School (AIS) is located in Kowloon Tong, with an excellent geographical location and convenient transport links. With a spacious campus and state-of-the-art facilities, the school provides a quality learning environment for students.

Highlights of Campus Facilities

• Spacious sports ground:Includes football pitches, basketball courts and a high quality swimming pool to support a wide range of sporting activities.
• Advanced arts and technology facilities:Equipped with modern equipment such as 3D printers, CAD CAM kits and laser cutters.
• A professional performing arts venue:Used for music, theatre and other performance activities.
• Modern teaching facilities:Equipped with the latest teaching technologies to support innovative teaching methods.

Academic Structure and School Year Arrangement

Australian international schools adopt a unique academic year arrangement which is different from that of local schools in Hong Kong. While this arrangement may seem unusual at first glance, it actually provides more flexibility and choice for students.

Academic Year Arrangement

• Starting time:Late January or early February each year
• The end of the school year:Around mid-December
• Summer holidays:Around 15 December to early January

This academic year arrangement, though different from other schools in Hong Kong, is in line with that of local schools in Australia and helps students to better adapt to the Australian education system.

Course Selection

Australian International Schools offer two main academic options for students:

1. NSW High School Diploma (HSC):
   • Suitable for students planning to study in Australia or New Zealand.
   • Wide range of programmes including English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, etc.
   • Special focus on technology and software training
   • Examination Period : Mid-October to mid-November each year
2. International Baccalaureate (IB) Foundation Programme:
   • Highly recognised internationally and suitable for students who plan to study globally
   • Programmes focus more on research and critical thinking skills
   • Exam time: November every year (synchronised with Australian IB schools)

Play-based Learning in Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Australian International Schools adopts a play-based approach to learning, which is derived from the Australian philosophy of early childhood education and emphasises play and interaction to promote the holistic development of the child.

Characteristics of Game-based Learning

• Focus on outdoor activities:Encourage children to explore the natural environment through outdoor play, cultivating curiosity and a spirit of exploration.
• Language Development:Help children acquire language skills naturally through play and daily interaction.
• Social skills development:To develop children's social skills and emotional management through group activities and role play.
• Comprehensive development:The focus is not only on academic skills, but also on developing children's creativity, problem-solving skills and self-confidence.

This approach to education not only helps children build a strong foundation for learning, but also fosters a love of learning, laying a good foundation for future learning and growth.

Academic Structure Options at Secondary Level

Australian international schools offer two main options for students at secondary level: the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) and the International Baccalaureate (IB). Both options are unique and can meet the needs and future plans of a wide range of students.

NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC)

The HSC is the Higher School Certificate in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, and is chosen by about half of all students at international schools in Australia.

• Course features:The programme covers a wide range of traditional subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science and Geography, while also focusing on technology and software.
• Examination arrangements:Examinations are held between mid-October and mid-November each year and results are announced in January of the following year.
• Advantages of further studies:It is particularly suitable for students planning to study in Australia or New Zealand, and is regarded as the local education system.
• Learning Difficulties:Compared to the IB programme, the HSC is considered to be easier in some ways because there is less emphasis on research requirements than in the IB.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Foundation Programme

The IB programme is a highly recognised international curriculum, and Australian international schools have been offering this option since 2006.

• Course features:Emphasis is placed on developing students' critical thinking, research skills and international perspective.
• Examination arrangements:Examinations are held in November each year and are synchronised with IB schools in Australia.
• Advantages of further studies:Highly recognised globally and suitable for students planning to study in prestigious schools around the world.
• Learning Difficulties:The programme is demanding and requires students to have strong independent learning and time management skills.

Regardless of which academic structure is chosen, students of Australian International School are provided with high quality education. The school's median IB score of about 37 out of 45 is higher than the Hong Kong average, demonstrating the excellent quality of teaching.

Language Education

Although English is the main language of instruction in Australian international schools, Chinese language education is also highly valued:

• Grades K-6: Chinese (Putonghua) as a compulsory subject
• Grades 7 to 12: Chinese as an elective subject
• In addition to Chinese, French is another foreign language option offered by the school.

This multilingual education model provides students with a good foundation for future internationalisation.

Culinary Techniques and Creativity Programme

One of the amazing features of the Australian International School's curriculum design is its unique culinary skills programme. This is more than just simple cooking instruction, it is a platform for students to develop their creative and practical skills.

Features of Cooking Courses

• Creating new teaching and learning spaces:The school has a dedicated cookery room with state-of-the-art kitchen equipment.
• Practice and innovation go hand in hand:Students not only learn basic cooking skills, but are also encouraged to create their own dishes.
• Interdisciplinary integration:The Culinary Programme combines the areas of nutrition, cultural studies and creative thinking.
• Life skills development:Through cooking instruction, students learn important life skills such as time management and teamwork.

This innovative curriculum design is quite rare in international schools in Hong Kong, and is more commonly found in boarding schools in Australia, the United Kingdom or the United States. It reflects the importance that Australian international schools place on whole-person education and provides students with learning opportunities that go beyond traditional academic disciplines.

School's Academic Achievement and IB Programme

The Australian International School performs equally well academically, especially in the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. The school's IB results are consistently better than the Hong Kong average, demonstrating its high quality of teaching.

IB Programme Excellence

• IB median scores:It scored about 37 marks (out of 45), which is higher than the average of Hong Kong.
• High Score Rate:IB students in 71% receive the highest grade (Grade 7) in at least one subject.
• Comprehensive development:The IB programme focuses on developing students' critical thinking and research skills.

Benefits of the HSC programme

In addition to the IB, the school also offers the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) programme, providing students with more choices:

• Outstanding results:Approximately 20% of HSC students received the highest grade (Band 6).
• Diversity of Courses:It covers not only traditional subjects but also modern programmes such as technology and software.
• The Australian University Advantage:Especially suitable for students who plan to study in Australia or New Zealand.

Pathways: not only in Australia

Although the Australian International School is closely linked to the Australian education system, its graduates' options for further education are not limited to Australia. The success of AIS graduates in gaining entry to top universities around the world demonstrates the international competitiveness of the school's education.

Diversified choices for further studies

• Australian University:With the school's Australian background, many students choose to continue their studies at one of Australia's top universities.
• University of the United Kingdom:The school's IB programme provides strong support for students applying to UK universities.
• American University:Every year, students successfully enter Ivy League schools in the United States.
• Asia and beyond:Students have also successfully applied to prestigious universities in China, Singapore and Hong Kong.

This diversity of pathways reflects the internationalisation of international school education in Australia and the competitiveness of our students. Wherever students choose to continue their tertiary education, schools provide them with a solid foundation and a broad perspective.

Extracurricular Activities and Sports Achievements

Australian international schools place great emphasis on the holistic development of their students, especially in the areas of extra-curricular activities and sports. The school offers a wide range of activities and choices for students to develop their interests and talents outside of academia.

Sports Facilities and Achievements

• Quality facilities:The school has spacious sports grounds including football pitches, basketball courts and a high quality swimming pool.
• Diversity Campaign:Apart from traditional sports, there are also Australian specialities such as rugby and even golf.
• Competition results:The school has won many international inter-school sports competitions.
• Gymnasium:To organise an annual International Schools Basketball Tournament to attract participation from other international schools.

Arts and Performance

The arts and performing arts are another key area of the school's extra-curricular activities:

• Music Education:Offers a variety of instrumental classes and choirs.
• Drama Performance:Regular large-scale musical and theatre productions, such as Shakespearean plays, are organised.
• Art Exhibition:The students' work is not only displayed on campus, but is also exhibited in the community.

The Fusion of Technology and Art

The integration of technology and arts education at AIS embodies the school's keen grasp of modern educational trends. This integration not only enriches students' learning experience, but also lays a solid foundation for their future development.

Advanced Technological Facilities

• 3D printing technology:The school is equipped with 3D printers so that students can turn their ideas into reality.
• CAD CAM suite:Provides professional computer-aided design and manufacturing tools.
• Laser cutter:Students will be able to produce work in a variety of materials with precision.
• Robotics production space:Students are encouraged to explore and practise robotics.

These facilities are not only used in the technology programmes, but are also integrated into the art and design programmes to foster cross-disciplinary thinking and creativity among students.

Combining Art and Technology

Schools encourage students to utilise technology in their artistic creations, for example:

• Digital Art:Use computer software to create visual art.
• Interactive device:Combining programming and artistic design to create interactive artworks.
• 3D Printing Art:Sculpture and installation art using 3D printing technology.

This fusion of technology and art not only expands the creative possibilities of students, but also develops the cross-disciplinary thinking skills they will need in the future workplace.

Emphasis on Language Learning

Although English is the main language of instruction at Australian International School, the school places equal emphasis on the development of students' multilingual skills, especially Chinese language education. This multilingual education model provides students with a good foundation for future internationalisation.

Chinese language education

• Compulsory Courses:Chinese (Putonghua) is a compulsory subject from Kindergarten to Grade 6.
• Elective Courses:From Grade 7 to Grade 12, students may choose to continue learning Chinese.
• IB Chinese Language Programme:Provide a high level Chinese language programme that fulfils the requirements of the IB Diploma.

Other Languages

In addition to Chinese, the school offers other language learning opportunities:

• French:It is the most popular foreign language choice besides Chinese.
• Language Clubs:Provide more language learning opportunities through extra-curricular activities.

This diversified language education strategy not only enhances students' language proficiency, but also strengthens their cultural understanding and international perspective, preparing them for future learning and work in a globalised environment.

School Culture and Student Development

The uniqueness of Australian International Schools is not only reflected in their curriculum, but also in their strong school culture and emphasis on the holistic development of students. This culture provides students with rich opportunities for growth, leadership and teamwork.

Social System

The school adopts a social system derived from the English and Australian boarding school traditions:

• The four-society system:Students are divided into four clubs.
• Diversity Competition:The clubs compete with each other in the fields of academics, sports and arts.
• Team spirit:Cultivate students' sense of belonging and teamwork.
• Leadership Opportunities:Provide opportunities for students to take on leadership roles such as club president.

Student Leadership Development

The school attaches great importance to the development of students' leadership skills:

• Primary School Leaders:Beginning in 6th grade, students have the opportunity to run for student leadership positions.
• Student Union Election:Formal student union elections are held at senior secondary level to simulate a real democratic process.
• Leadership Training:Provide specialised programmes and activities to develop students' leadership skills.

This holistic approach to student development not only enriches students' school life, but also lays a solid foundation for their future personal and professional development. Through these unique cultures and activities, Australian International Schools truly realise the concept of whole-person education and nurture future talents with international perspectives, leadership skills and team spirit.

Social System and Student Leadership

AIS adopts a social system derived from the British and Australian boarding school traditions, which not only enriches students' school life, but also develops their team spirit and leadership skills.

four social groups system (e.g. Chinese communist party)

• Branch structure:Students are divided into four clubs.
• Diversity Competition:The clubs compete with each other in the fields of academics, sports and arts.
• Team spirit:Cultivate students' sense of belonging and co-operation through club activities.
• Leadership Opportunities:Provide students with valuable experience in leadership roles such as president.

Student Leadership Development

Australian international schools place great emphasis on developing leadership skills in their students and provide leadership opportunities for students from the primary school level onwards:

• Primary School Leaders:Beginning in 6th grade, students have the opportunity to run for student leadership positions.
• Student Union Election:Formal student union elections are held at senior secondary level to simulate a real democratic process.
• Campaign:Candidates for the Student Union conduct canvassing activities and put up posters in schools to cultivate civic awareness.
• Leadership Training:The school provides specialised programmes and activities to develop students' leadership skills.

This holistic approach to student development not only enriches students' school life, but also lays a solid foundation for their future personal and professional development. Through these unique cultures and activities, AIS truly realises the concept of whole person education.

Application Process and Admission Requirements

The relatively stringent admission procedures of international schools in Australia reflect the high demand for quality, especially in terms of English language proficiency.

Application steps

1. AEAS Exam:Non-native English speakers applying to primary to secondary schools may be required to take the AEAS test first.
2. Achievement Requirements:An AEAS score of 80% is required for admission.
3. Application Form:Submit the application form through the school's application system.
4. Internal Assessment:After the initial screening, students will be required to participate in the school's internal assessment.
5. Interview:The final stage is an interview with school representatives.

Admission Time

As the academic year arrangement of AIS is different from other schools in Hong Kong, the school provides flexible admission options:

• First semester admission:The school year starts in February every year and it is recommended to apply from September.
• Third semester enrolment:The school year starts at the end of July to provide more flexibility for transfer students.
• Apply throughout the year:The school accepts applications for different time slots throughout the year to cater for students from different backgrounds.

This flexible admission arrangement enables Australian international schools to better accommodate students from different educational backgrounds, whether they are local students, overseas returnees or Mainland transfer students.

Conclusion: The Unique Value of Australian International Schools

The Australian International School (AIS) is one of the jewels of the Hong Kong education sector, and its uniqueness lies not only in its Australian educational philosophy, but also in its holistic and innovative approach to education. The following points summarise the core values of the school:

Whole Person Development Education

• Balanced development:Emphasis is placed on the all-round development of students in the areas of academics, sports, arts and leadership.
• Innovative programmes:For example, the culinary arts programme develops students' life skills and creativity.
• Technology integration:Incorporate advanced technology, such as 3D printing and CAD CAM technology, into the art and design programmes.

International Perspective

• Multicultural environment:Students come from different countries and cultural backgrounds, fostering an international perspective.
• Language Education:The emphasis is on English language teaching, while providing high quality Chinese and other foreign language programmes.
• Diversified pathways for further studies:Graduates can choose not only Australian universities, but also apply to top institutions around the world.

Quality Learning Environment

• Advanced facilities:We have a spacious campus with state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities, including high-quality sports facilities.
• Small Class Teaching:Maintaining a small teacher-student ratio ensures that each student receives adequate attention.
• The social system:To develop students' team spirit and leadership skills through the Four Community System.

These features make the Australian International School a unique and valuable alternative to international schools in Hong Kong. For students and parents who are looking for a well-rounded, international education environment with flexible learning paths, Australian International Schools are undoubtedly an option worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the academic structure of Australian international schools only suitable for students who intend to study in Australia?

Not true. Although the school follows the Australian curriculum, both its International Baccalaureate (IB) and NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) are recognised globally. The school's graduates are successful in gaining admission to top universities around the world, including prestigious institutions in the UK, USA, Canada, China and Singapore.

2. Is English the only medium of instruction in the school?

The primary language of instruction is English, but the school places great emphasis on multilingual education. Chinese (Putonghua) is mandatory from K-6 and optional from 7th grade onwards. In addition, the school offers other language options such as French.

3. Will the academic year arrangement of international schools in Australia affect students' application to universities in other countries?

No. The school year is different from other schools in Hong Kong. Although the school year arrangement is different from other schools in Hong Kong, the examination schedule has been adjusted to match the application cycle of universities around the world. For example, the IB exams are scheduled in November every year, which is synchronised with IB schools in Australia and will not affect students' ability to apply to universities around the world.

4. is the school only suitable for students with strong academic ability?

No, it is not. The Australian International School adopts a holistic approach to education. In addition to academic achievement, the school places great emphasis on the development of students in the areas of sports, arts and leadership. The school offers a wide range of programmes and activities to meet the interests and talents of different students.

5. Are the admission requirements of schools high?

The school does have high admission requirements, especially in terms of English proficiency. Non-native English speakers may be required to take the AEAS exam and achieve a score of 80%. However, the school's assessment process is holistic, looking not only at academic achievement, but also at a student's overall potential.

Overall, the Australian International School provides a unique and comprehensive international education environment for students. It not only opens the door to the world's top universities, but also nurtures students to become future talents with international outlook, leadership skills and innovative spirit. For Hong Kong families seeking a quality international education, the Australian International School is undoubtedly an option worth exploring in depth.