Choosing the right international school in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming. If you are a parent considering Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School (CKY) in Hong Kong 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 CKY is the right fit and how to prepare.

About Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School (CKY)

Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School (CKY) is a well-established Hong Kong school under the Po Leung Kuk charitable organisation. It offers a bilingual (Chinese–English) education from primary through secondary and is known for a balanced curriculum that leads to IGCSE and IB Diploma in the senior years. CKY aims to develop students who are academically capable, bilingual, and socially responsible.

The school’s ethos combines traditional values with modern, inquiry-based approaches. Class sizes are kept manageable, and the faculty includes experienced teachers who support both language streams. Parents often cite the strength of the bilingual programme, the clarity of the academic pathway, and the connection to the Po Leung Kuk foundation as key reasons for choosing CKY. The school welcomes families seeking a dual-language environment without sacrificing rigour in either language.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for parents who are researching CKY, comparing it with other Hong Kong international schools, or looking for detailed information on curriculum, fees, admissions, and what to expect. Whether your child is entering primary or 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 CKY

CKY offers a bilingual (Chinese–English) curriculum from the primary years through to graduation. In the lower and middle years, the focus is on dual-language development, inquiry-based learning, and a broad exposure to the arts, sciences, and humanities. The school uses internationally aligned frameworks that prepare students for IGCSE and IB Diploma in the senior years.

In the senior years, CKY typically offers IGCSE and IB Diploma—confirm the exact exam board and subject list on the school website. Subject choice is broad: sciences, mathematics, languages, humanities, and the arts are well represented. Students can tailor their 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

CKY is located in Hong Kong (check the school website for the exact address and transport options). The campus is purpose-built with libraries, science laboratories, IT suites, sports halls, and dedicated spaces for music, drama, and art. Outdoor play and sports facilities are a priority. Location is a major factor for families: traffic in Hong Kong can be heavy, so consider commute time, school bus routes, and your family’s routine when shortlisting. Many families choose to live in the same district or along a direct bus route to simplify the school run.

Fees and Costs: What Parents Should Budget

International school fees in Hong Kong are among the highest in the region. CKY fees are typically in the upper range—often HKD 160,000–240,000+ per year depending on year level (indicative; always confirm on the school 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 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 CKY timetable.

Admissions Process and Timeline

CKY has a structured admissions process. Typical steps (always confirm with the school):

1. Application – Complete the online 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; 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 CKY

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

Factor	What to check
Curriculum	Bilingual programme, IGCSE and IB pathway, and subject choice for your child’s year.
Language	Balance of Chinese and English instruction and additional language options (e.g. 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 levies, debentures, 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: CKY has a strong bilingual programme, clear IGCSE and IB pathways, a balanced curriculum, and the backing of the Po Leung Kuk organisation. The community is focused on both academic and character development. Cons: Fees are in the upper range, entry can be competitive, and 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 CKY 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 CKY 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 CKY offer A-Level or US curriculum?
A: CKY typically offers IGCSE and IB Diploma. For A-Level or US/AP support alongside CKY, or for exam preparation, one-to-one tutoring can align with those curricula.

Q: How do we prepare for CKY entrance tests?
A: Tutoring can help with maths and English at the right level for common international school entrance formats. Check with the school 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

CKY (Po Leung Kuk Choi Kai Yau School) offers IGCSE and IB. Fees are in the upper range for Hong Kong; budget for application fees, levies, uniform, and transport. Admissions involve application, documents, assessment, and interview—apply early. Visiting the campus and confirming curriculum and fees for your child’s year will help you decide if CKY 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 CKY website 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 levies and typical extras.
3. Apply in good time—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 CKY), consider one-to-one tuition that fits around the school timetable. Book a free trial to see how it fits your family.