International Schools Advice for 4 year old

Hoping to hear from parents of children who attends these int'l schools:


1) Chinese International School

2) ISF

3) French International school

4) Canadian International School

5) ESF- Kowloon Junior

my daughter is presently doing really well in a very reputable local kindergarten. Although doing well, it's a lot of homework, exams, and tests, and no more "childhood" play time or time to be herself. It's like military school. Very disciplined, but very very demanding.


I am a working mom, although as a piano teacher, my hours are in my control, I still don't have THAT much time watching closely, and reviewing for hours with her for homework and exams everyday.


My 2 year old son also got into this kindy for Sept.


However, I am looking at admission in 2009. Am I too late? I am told that year 1 starts at 5 year old. They are doing interviews now.


However, I don't want to quit this kindergarten right now, is it impossible to get a placement in the mid years , like Year 2 or something in these schools?


Do I have to quit after june and get into an intl school this Sept?


I want my daughter to have freedom to develop her own being, and interests and personality and creativity, and develop a sense of self confidence, and leadership. But I want a good foundation in Chinese, and well discipline.

Does this school exist in HK ?


Thanks for any advice.

My daughter, 6Y, and my son 2Y are going to Hong Lok Yuen international school, close to Tai Po.


It's very nice, open, green , multi-cultural (more than 25 different). There is few children per classroom, no homework for 2,3,4,5Y and only a few after.


There is some Chinese lessons for all chidren, with different levels.


For me a very good school:


See an extract from their website: www.hlyis.edu.hk

Our school caters for both expatriates from all over countries and English speaking local Chinese children from 3-12 years to prepare them for International secondary education anywhere in the world. Whilst English is the medium of instruction, we have a long tradition of teaching Putonghua both as a first and second language.


The planned curriculum is based on the UK National Curriculum of England, to provide a sound grounding in the basic subjects. An enquiry child centred approach is adopted in teaching and learning to ensure that all students learn to take responsibility for their own learning, learn how to learn and think, in preparation for future education and life. Physical Education, Music and learning the Chinese Language is high profile at our school. We celebrate our multi-cultural environment and value diversity.


A particular emphasis is placed on the individual with small classes which enables teachers to know each child and their special needs, and cater for their differences.