A guide to ESF schools in Hong Kong

Among the myriad of educational options available, the English Schools Foundation stands out as a prominent and reputable choice for families seeking a high-quality international education. 

What is the English Schools Foundation?

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is the largest provider of English-medium international education in Hong Kong. Established in 1967, ESF operates 22 schools, including kindergartens, primary schools, secondary schools, and a special education school, catering to over 18,000 students from more than 60 nationalities. ESF’s mission is to provide a world-class education to every student, empowering them to be confident, knowledgeable, and adaptable individuals ready to thrive in a global society.

 

Why choose ESF?

Choosing ESF ensures an outstanding education for your child, helping them achieve the best possible outcomes. The results speak for themselves, and the education provided at every stage from K1 to Y13 is designed to help students discover their passions, preparing them for happy and successful lives. Additionally, ESF offers outstanding experiences in sports, the arts, and leadership, ensuring that your child is happy, kind, and always learning. The exceptional team of educators, led by world-class principals, has the greatest impact on your child’s education, providing unparalleled support and guidance.

 

Curriculum and academic excellence

ESF schools follow a robust curriculum that fosters academic excellence, critical thinking, and holistic development. For primary and secondary education, ESF schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, including the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the IB Diploma Programme (DP). This internationally recognised curriculum is known for its rigorous academic standards and emphasis on developing students’ intellectual, personal, emotional, and social skills.

 

ESF Explore

Established three decades ago, ESF Explore, formerly known as ESF Sports & Language, plays a crucial role within the ESF framework by offering exceptional extracurricular activities to support the growth and development of young individuals in Hong Kong. The team at ESF Explore is dedicated to providing opportunities for students to explore interests and passions outside the traditional classroom setting, aligning with ESF’s commitment to holistic education for over fifty years. 

Whilst the diverse range of courses and activities offered is accessible to all students in Hong Kong, not limited to those enrolled in ESF schools, ESF students are encouraged to take advantage of the extensive array of opportunities available at every opportunity. Additionally, the vast network of ESF schools across Hong Kong provides students with a unique opportunity to participate in inter-school events such as the ESF Art Exhibition, the ESF primary choral concert, and the ESF e-sports tournament.

 

Diverse and inclusive community

One of the standout features of ESF schools is their diverse and inclusive community. With students from diverse cultural backgrounds, ESF schools provide a rich, multicultural environment that broadens students’ perspectives and fosters global-mindedness. This diversity is complemented by a strong community and collaboration among students, parents, and staff, ensuring a supportive and nurturing educational experience.

State-of-the-art facilities

ESF schools are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the learning experience. Modern classrooms, well-equipped science and computer labs, extensive libraries, and comprehensive sports facilities are just a few examples of student resources. These facilities support various extracurricular activities, from sports and performing arts to technology and environmental clubs, encouraging students to explore their interests and develop new skills.

 

Experienced and dedicated staff

The teaching staff at ESF schools are highly qualified and experienced professionals committed to delivering the best possible education. Many teachers come from international backgrounds, bringing diverse teaching methodologies and perspectives to the classroom. ESF also invests in continuous professional development, ensuring staff remain at the forefront of educational best practices and innovations.

Admissions process

The admissions process for ESF schools is competitive, reflecting the high demand for places. ESF schools are non-selective. The criteria for admission is that students must demonstrate sufficient English language skills so that they can benefit from a mainstream English-medium learning environment. Applicants will be placed on a waiting list and will be invited to an interview or assessment when vacancies become available. Overseas passport holders (not BNO) will receive priority over local passport holders for the ESF Schools. Priority for an interview or assessment will be based on the 12 ranked criteria which are listed on ESF’s website. 

 

Class of 2024 – Outstanding achievements 

ESF proudly recognises students’ high academic and wider achievements. In 2024, the school celebrated an exceptional 98.1% pass rate in the IB Diploma exams with 24 ESF students achieving the perfect score of 45 points in the IB DP. The school’s ‘FUTURE READY’ campaign honours the outstanding achievements of students at ESF who have surpassed expectations to reach their full potential. Going beyond academic achievements, these students’ talents acknowledge the profound impact of education in moulding their future goals, enabling them to contribute positively to society and excel in their respective fields and beyond.

Interested to know more? 

With its strong academic programmes, diverse community, excellent facilities, and dedicated staff, ESF schools provide a well-rounded and enriching educational experience. Investing in an ESF education can yield lifelong benefits, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a globalised world. Contact the ESF schools team to discover more. 

English Schools Foundation (ESF) is the largest English-medium international school organisation in Hong Kong with 22 locations. To find out more visit join-us.esf.edu.hk