Choosing the right international school in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming. If you are a parent considering Island School Hong Kong (an ESF secondary school) for your child, this guide is for you. We cover the school’s history and ethos, curriculum and programmes, location and facilities, fees and costs, admissions process, what to look for when visiting, and practical next steps—so you can decide whether Island School is the right fit and how to prepare.

About Island School Hong Kong

Island School is one of the English Schools Foundation (ESF) secondary schools and is located on Hong Kong Island. It has a long history and serves students in the secondary years, typically offering IGCSE and IB Diploma. Island School is known for a diverse community, strong academic and co-curricular programmes, and a culture that encourages independence and critical thinking. The school has a strong reputation for university placement in Hong Kong, the UK, and beyond.

The school’s ethos aligns with ESF’s mission: to provide a broad, balanced education in English with high academic standards. Class sizes are kept manageable, and the faculty includes many experienced teachers who deliver the IGCSE and IB programmes. Parents often cite the breadth of opportunities, the central Hong Kong Island location, and the strength of the student community as key reasons for choosing Island School.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching Island School, comparing it with other Hong Kong international schools (including other ESF schools), or looking for detailed information on curriculum, fees, admissions, and what to expect. Whether your child is entering lower or upper secondary, or you are considering a move to Hong Kong, you will find here a structured overview and practical checklists to support your decision.

Curriculum and Programmes at Island School

Island School follows the ESF secondary curriculum framework. In the lower secondary years, the focus is on a broad, balanced education with strong foundations in English, mathematics, science, and the humanities. The school typically offers IGCSE in the middle secondary years and IB Diploma in the final two years—confirm the exact exam board and subject list on the ESF or Island School website.

In the senior years, subject choice is wide: sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities, and the arts are all well represented. Students can tailor their IGCSE and IB programme to their interests and university goals. The school supports students who need EAL (English as an Additional Language) or learning support. If your child needs extra support in specific IGCSE or IB subjects, or exam technique, one-to-one tutoring aligned with those curricula can supplement school work effectively.

Location and Facilities

Island School is located on Hong Kong Island (check the ESF website for the exact address). The campus is purpose-built with libraries, science laboratories, IT suites, sports halls, swimming pools, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and art. Outdoor and sports facilities are a priority. Location is a major factor for families: the Hong Kong Island location suits many families living on the island or with good transport links. Consider commute time, school bus routes, and your family’s routine when shortlisting.

Fees and Costs: What Parents Should Budget

ESF school fees are set at the foundation level. Island School fees are typically in the range HKD 120,000–180,000+ per year depending on year level (indicative; always confirm on the ESF website). Fees usually cover tuition, most materials, and access to standard facilities. Additional costs that parents should budget for include:

• Application and assessment fees (non-refundable)
• Capital levy or debenture (if applicable—check current ESF policy)
• Uniform, PE kit, and optional materials
• Transport (school bus or public transport)
• Optional activities (trips, after-school clubs, exams)

Planning for these extras helps avoid surprises. Families who want to supplement school with targeted tutoring (e.g. for IGCSE, IB, or specific subjects) can do so at a fraction of the cost of a second school; flexible, one-to-one sessions can fit around the Island School timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

Admissions to Island School are managed through ESF. Typical steps (always confirm on the ESF website):

1. Application – Complete the ESF application form and pay the application fee. Submit by the deadline for your intended start date.
2. Supporting documents – Previous school reports (often the last two years), passport/ID, and any relevant learning or medical information.
3. Assessment – Age-appropriate assessments, which may include English, mathematics, and reasoning. Format and length vary by year group.
4. Interview – Student and/or family interview. The school uses this to understand your child’s interests, strengths, and fit with the community.
5. Offer and acceptance – If successful, you will receive an offer, often with a deadline to accept and pay a deposit.

Apply well in advance; ESF places can be limited, especially in popular year groups. Preparing for entrance assessments (e.g. maths and English at the right level) can help your child feel confident on the day.

What to Look for When Visiting Island School

When you visit Island School, use the following as a checklist so you leave with a clear picture:

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	IGCSE and IB pathway, subject choice, and exam board for your child’s year.
Language	Language of instruction and additional language options (e.g. Mandarin, EAL).
Class size	Typical class size for your child’s year and student–teacher ratio.
Support	EAL, learning support, and pastoral care—how they are delivered and who to contact.
Location	Commute time, school bus routes, and transport options from your home.
Fees	Total cost per year including ESF levies and typical extras.
Culture	Fit with your family’s values, your child’s personality, and the overall feel of the community.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

Pros: Island School has a long history, a diverse community, clear IGCSE and IB pathways, and strong academic and co-curricular programmes. Fees are typically lower than many private international schools in Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Island location is convenient for many families. Cons: Entry can be competitive; the fixed location and timetable mean that families who need more flexibility (e.g. extra support in specific subjects or exam prep) often use external tutoring to supplement. Considering both sides helps you decide if Island School is the right fit and what additional support, if any, your child might need.

How Tutopiya Fits In

If your child needs extra help with IGCSE, IB, or specific subjects, one-to-one tuition can supplement Island School without changing school. Flexible scheduling and online sessions mean no extra commute, and continuity if you relocate. Book a free trial or explore Tutopiya’s learning portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Parents

Q: Does Island School offer A-Level or US curriculum?
A: Island School typically offers IGCSE and IB Diploma. For A-Level or US/AP support alongside the school, or for exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can align with those curricula.

Q: How do we prepare for ESF/Island School entrance tests?
A: Tutoring can help with maths and English at the right level for common ESF entrance formats. Check with ESF for the exact format and content.

Q: Can our child continue learning if we travel or relocate?
A: Yes. Online one-to-one tuition allows your child to continue with the same tutor from anywhere, which can be especially helpful during transitions.

Key Takeaways

Island School (ESF) offers IGCSE and IB in the senior years. Fees are typically lower than many private international schools in Hong Kong; budget for ESF levies and typical extras. Admissions are via ESF—apply early and prepare for assessments. Visiting the campus and confirming curriculum and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if Island School is the right fit. If your child needs extra support in IGCSE or IB, one-to-one tutoring can supplement the school timetable flexibly.

Next Steps for Parents

1. Visit the ESF and Island School websites and, if possible, attend an open day or schedule a campus tour.
2. Confirm curriculum (IGCSE, IB) and total fees for your child’s year, including ESF levies and typical extras.
3. Apply in good time via ESF—places can be limited. Gather reports and prepare your child for assessments.
4. If you need extra support (e.g. entrance-test preparation or IGCSE/IB subject tutoring alongside Island School), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.