School Profile 2024

SCHOOL
PROFILE
A non-profit international IB
World School for students in
Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12
www.hkacademy.edu.hk

A LETTER FROM
THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
Hong Kong Academy’s mission statement guides our shared purpose
to provide exceptional educational opportunities for all learners.
Hong Kong Academy nurtures a
culture of belonging that inspires
students to become intellectually
curious, intrinsically motivated, and
interculturally minded global citizens.
Welcome to Hong Kong Academy and thank you for your
interest in our vibrant learning community. Founded
in 2000, we pride ourselves on being a non-profit, fully
authorised three-programme IB World School that provides
an exceptional learning environment for students in Pre-
Kindergarten through to Grade 12. We celebrate the
unique strengths and talents that each learner brings to our
community, and embrace our collective diversity as a part of
what makes learning at HKA both joyful and transformative.
Choosing HKA means becoming part of a culture of belonging
that inspires students to become intellectually curious,
intrinsically motivated, and interculturally minded global
citizens. This mission embodies the traditions, values, and
aspirations of this community, which is also what attracted
my family and I here to work, learn and grow.
There is so much that sets Hong Kong Academy apart: our
combination of international curriculum and accreditations,
global partnerships and local connections, non-profit status,
stunning campus setting, and award-winning sustainable
facilities. However, what truly makes HKA special are our
students, families, faculty, and staff who bring the HKA
mission to life each and every day. Don’t take my word for it, come and
see for yourself! We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Sincerely,
1 HONG KONG ACADEMY
Kasson Bratton, Head of School
2

SCHOOL-WIDE STRATEGY
STUDENT IDENTITY AS GLOBAL CITIZENS
Because we believe that curriculum design and learning experiences will support
the development and growth of students as intellectually curious, intrinsically
motivated and interculturally minded global citizens. We will:
• Strengthen student identity as global citizens by creating, implementing and assessing
the profile of an HKA learner through the lenses of intellectual curiosity, intrinsic
motivation, and intercultural mindedness.
COMMUNITY CULTURE OF BELONGING
Because we believe that a sense of belonging will be developed through a
commitment to inclusion through diversity, equity and access to learning (IDEA).
We will:
• Ensure that the physical and virtual spaces are safe and secure, and provide access for
everyone to participate in the organisation’s structures, growth, ideals and principles.
• Amplify the HKA culture of belonging by building a strong sense of connection,
reciprocity, and shared values throughout the community.
• Adapt to evolving student demographics by exploring opportunities to strengthen and
support multilingualism to elevate community engagement.
Hong Kong Academy’s strategy reflects our
beliefs and values as a non-profit international
school. Anchored in our mission, the strategy
serves as a guide and roadmap identifying
school-wide priorities which frame our dialogue
both educationally and operationally.
We know that in a system composed of people and
relationships, our capacity to be dynamic is how we will
continue to grow and thrive. Our strategy helps to bring
the community together, providing a common language
to articulate our shared understanding of organisational
growth and success, and ensuring mission integrity in our
rapidly developing world.
ENVIRONMENTAL, PROGRAMMATIC, AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
Because we believe that changing form and clarifying identity shall be a part of the
school’s DNA to ensure continuous growth and long-term sustainability; fiscally,
environmentally and programmatically. We will:
• Sustain HKA as an innovative learning hub by strengthening our commitment to
continuous learning and innovation that will continue to attract and retain local and
global talent.
3 HONG KONG ACADEMY 4

Why is HKA an
IB World School?
Through the frameworks of the
International Baccalaureate Primary
Years, Middle Years and Diploma
programmes, HKA delivers a rigorous
international education that engages
students in rich, challenging and
meaningful learning experiences. As
a fully authorised IB World School,
we are committed to cultivating
global mindedness, nurturing
positive learning dispositions and
developing versatile approaches to
learning skills in every student.
PRIMARY SCHOOL
A week in the life of an HKA Primary
School student includes…
In Primary School, students develop literacy and
numeracy skills and engage in a rich programme
of inquiry at every grade level. Students use a
range of resources to grow as communicators and
mathematical thinkers and apply their knowledge,
skills and understandings in different contexts.
We use the IB Primary Years programme (IB PYP)
to structure our curriculum and invite learners to
inquire about themselves, others and the world
around them. Specialist teachers partner with
classroom teachers to integrate key learning
objectives and outcomes across subject areas.
This invites students to connect their learning in
Mandarin, visual arts, physical education, music
and literacy information technology (library) to
their homeroom learning experiences.
Intentionally small class sizes allow teachers to differentiate
learning experiences for every child. Our two-teacher model
in every Primary School classroom promotes strong studentteacher
relationships, ensuring every child is known and
understood as an individual. HKA’s Primary School Counsellor
works with teachers and students to integrate wellbeing
education into the curriculum. Through our robust service
learning programme, students learn to think flexibly and
consider the impact that their actions have on the planet,
on other people and themselves. This holistic approach to
education provides students with tools and strategies to help
them know who they are, become self-directed and develop
empathy for others.
5 HONG KONG ACADEMY 6

Our holistic education recognises, addresses and celebrates
the evolving needs of adolescent learners. Wellbeing is
fundamental to student success, and we encourage every
child to actively pursue a healthy and balanced lifestyle. A
bespoke wellbeing and counselling programme nurtures
the mental, physical and social growth of every individual.
Co-curricular offerings cater to the interests and passions
of student athletes, artists, leaders and global citizens. As
they become increasingly independent and self-sufficient,
we recognise the importance of strong home-school
partnerships for student success, and we work closely
with parents to ensure every student feels supported and
successful as they progress through the Secondary School
programme.
The Secondary School programme inspires
curiosity, encourages innovation and nurtures
a strong sense of identity in every individual.
We use the International Baccalaureate
Middle Years Programme ( IB MYP) to
structure teaching, learning and assessment
for students in Grades 6-10. In Grades 11 and
12, students can pursue a range of programme
options that align with who they are as
learners and prepare them to achieve their
post-secondary aspirations. At every grade
level, our approach to instruction is practical,
dynamic and student-centred, and teachers
build strong relationships with students,
gathering evidence of learning on a regular
basis and providing timely feedback.
SECONDARY SCHOOL
HKA embeds the competencies, knowledge and skills students
need today in authentic contexts that prepare them for the
future. By identifying complex problems, connecting their
learning across different disciplines and considering a range of
perspectives, our students develop flexibility and confidence
as learners. Built upon a foundation of inquiry, our programme
engages students in project-based learning experiences that
invite collaboration, reflection and action.
MULTIPLE CREDENTIALS
UPON GRADUATION
All HKA graduates earn two credentials,
and the majority graduate with three. The
HKA Diploma is a credit-based diploma
recognised by universities and colleges
around the world. We are the only
school in Hong Kong to offer the Global
Citizen Diploma (GCD), a graduation
requirement that showcases how HKA
students demonstrate intercultural
communication, community engagement
and global understanding, through a
portfolio-based qualification. Over 90% of
our students select to take courses in the
IB Diploma, an internationally recognised
external qualification that provides a
broad and balanced academically rigorous
programme.
7 HONG KONG ACADEMY 8

Determining the next steps in the learning
journey after graduation is an important process
for students and their families. We take a highly
personalised approach to post-secondary
planning and work with individual students to
understand the different options they might
wish to pursue. Through counselling and
advisory programmes, students are introduced
to a range of post-secondary opportunities and
supported in exploring how their interests and
future aspirations will inform their pathway to
graduation.
HKA
ALUMNI
Whether a student graduated from HKA or was here for a single semester, they are
considered Dragonflies for life. Comprising graduates and former students, families and
employees, the HKA Alumni and Former Families Network spans the globe and remains
connected. We stay in contact through regular newsletters and events and are pleased to
welcome global community members back for campus visits.
UNIVERSITY AND CAREERS
College and university representatives visit the HKA
campus to meet students and share information
on their programmes. These conversations provide
valuable insights into life in different countries and
at different institutions worldwide. Students also
have opportunities to speak with professionals from
various industries to learn more about what different
career paths entail. HKA alumni and parents are also
important resources as they share their personal
experiences with their transitions to university life and
their professional careers after graduation.
We recognise the important role that families play
in the post-secondary planning process, and offer
a number of parent education events that provide
information on university and college application
requirements and degree programmes for schools all
around the world.
9 HONG KONG ACADEMY
SELECTION OF UNIVERSITY ACCEPTANCES 2020-2023
United Kingdom
Central Saint Martins,
University of the Arts London
Durham University
King’s College London
Leeds Conservatoire
SOAS University of London
University College London
University of Bristol
University of Edinburgh
University of Oxford
University of Manchester
United States
Berklee College of Music
Brown University
Lewis and Clark College
Northeastern University
Pepperdine University
Sarah Lawrence College
Savannah College of
Art and Design
University of California. Berkeley
University of Denver
University of Pennsylvania
Canada
7%
United States
35%
Rest of the World
Bocconi University (IT)
Duke Kunshan University (CN)
Franklin University Switzerland (CH)
Hong Kong University of Science
and Technology (HK)
United
Kingdom
16%
Netherlands
12%
Europe
15%
Asia
7%
IE University (ES)
lstituto Marangoni Paris (FR)
Leiden University (NL)
McGill University (CA)
University of Hong Kong (HK)
University of Melbourne (AU)
HKA celebrated its first graduating
class in 2012, and today we have more
than 300 graduates living, studying and
working globally.
Pursuing a range of degrees and fields
in a variety of countries, our graduates
reflect our school’s commitment
to individual pathways and global
citizenship. Read some of their stories
here.
Australia / New
Zealand
8% 10

GLOBAL
CITIZENSHIP
We believe that nurturing global citizens who act
responsibly for both themselves, society and the
world around them forms the foundation of a holistic
education. We embed the language and principles of
the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
into the Primary and Secondary curriculum, inviting
students to use their personal passions as jumping
off points for inquiry, exploration and action. Starting
with our youngest learners, students participate in
experiences that help them develop their individual
identities and understand their impact on the
world. Through partnerships with local and global
organisations, students see how they can serve as
agents of change within their communities.
Primary School students have opportunities to make
connections between their classroom learning and the
wider world and identify actions they can take towards
a sustainable future. As they continue into Secondary
School, students design their own projects, clubs and
initiatives to act in ways that are mutually beneficial
for themselves and their communities. Our approach
to service learning is designed to teach students that
as young people, they have the capacity to find their
voice and make a difference.
We are the only school in Hong Kong to offer the
Global Citizen Diploma programme (GCD), an
external credential that validates the ways our
students are taking action towards a better future.
As a global consortium of schools GCD members
collaborate to provide graduates with a framework
within which they can showcase their
skills, passions and talents as global
citizens. Learn more about the GCD
and how it benefits students by visiting
globalcitizendiploma.org
ENHANCING THE
LEARNING JOURNEY
FOR EVERY CHILD
CHILD
SAFEGUARDING
Every member of
the HKA community
has a responsibility to
support and protect
each child. Our policy,
procedures and
training programme
provide clear guidance
for keeping all children
safe.
LEARNER SUPPORT
Our commitment to inclusion starts in early
childhood and continues through to graduation.
Through tiered interventions, we provide
students with the resources and strategies that
help them become self-directed learners.
Through our range of
learner enhancements,
we cultivate a community
that values individual
contributions and
collective wellbeing
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
For students who are acquiring English as
an additional language, EAL specialists and
classroom teachers use a strengths-based
approach to scaffold and target language
development.
We prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion in
all aspects of our educational programme and
operations. Through building relationships with
individuals who embody a wide range of strengths,
talents and passions, our students become equipped
to thoughtfully navigate the world with compassion
and care.
COUNSELLING AND
WELLBEING
In grade level lessons,
small group meetings
and individual
sessions. HKA
wellbeing teachers
and counsellors
provide both
proactive and
reactive support to
our students and
their families.
11 HONG KONG ACADEMY 12

CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMMES
HKA believes that student success should be defined by the interests, strengths
and ambitions of the individual. Including After School Activities, Sports,
Performing Arts, Secondary School Clubs and Seasonal Programmes, our
co-curricular options extend and enhance what happens during the regular
instructional time.
Our co-curricular programme includes more than 100 options annually, with daily
classes available right from Pre-K1. All students participate in annual performing
arts productions, and from Grade 4 and up they are encouraged to participate in
competitive sports. Whether it’s at lunchtime, after school, over the weekend or
during school holidays, there are many opportunities for our students to build on
existing skills, try new interests, compete, create and grow.
13 HONG KONG ACADEMY 14

A CAPTIVATING LEARNING
ENVIRONMENT
EMPOWERING LEARNERS
THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
We believe that the purposeful use of digital systems and technology is essential for our future-focussed learners.
Digital citizenship is integrated into teaching and learning at every grade level. In the early years, we introduce
technological tools that support students to communicate ideas and showcase their learning process. Our 1-1 in-house
device programme in Primary School scaffolds device maintenance and responsible use of technology as students build
their skills. In Secondary School, students become increasingly independent in their application of platforms, systems
and information in the digital environment. As well as strengthening their technology skills, students also develop their
understanding of their digital footprint and how to maintain a healthy online presence.
Hong Kong Academy’s purpose-built, award-winning campus is designed to
engage students in authentic learning experiences. Every classroom, specialist
space, common area and playscape encourages collaboration, communication
and creativity, enriching the opportunities students have to express themselves
throughout the school day. The integration of natural light and open spaces
help to nurture a healthy and supportive setting, and our proximity to national
parklands and beaches contribute to community wellbeing. In 2022, the Green
Building Council of Hong Kong awarded HKA’s Sai Kung campus Gold BEAM Plus
status for its environmentally sustainable design and practices.
15 HONG KONG ACADEMY 16

CELEBRATING
HKA’S
HISTORY AND
COMMUNITY
Hong Kong Academy was founded as a Primary School in 2000
and first opened with just three early childhood students. For
almost 25 years, HKA has remained committed to cultivating
a diverse and inclusive community and offering a rigorous
international education that meets the needs of every learner.
Working at HKA feels rewarding and fulfilling – the school
prioritises student growth through personalised learning
and inclusivity. The collaborative atmosphere among
teachers creates a supportive work environment and I value
the commitment to inclusivity, diversity and community.
Contributing to students’ journeys and witnessing their
progress has been amazing. Through my work I continuously
grow professionally and personally, collaborating with peers
and adapting to student needs.
Laura Mayho, Primary School teacher
It’s hard to be concise about a life-changing, positive
experience that has impacted every member of our family –
but that’s what we experienced during our ten years at Hong
Kong Academy! Our son started mid-way through second
grade and graduated in the summer of 2022. The teams at HKA
are dedicated and passionate about learning and community,
and the academic rigour that our son experienced at HKA
consistently challenged and elevated him. We couldn’t have
asked for a better peer group for our son. He made life-long
friends, as have we. What started as a school soon became our
community.
Santo Rizzuto and Walter Jennings
The teachers at HKA helped foster a huge sense of
community. I connected with them on experiential
learning trips and at various sports competitions, as
well as in after-school and weekend study sessions.
Their mentoring helped me feel more comfortable
working with others, whether that be in teams or
clubs in college, interacting with professors, and most
recently in successfully cooperating with co-workers
and managers.
Sam Maddox, Class of 2015
What I found most rewarding
about being an HKA student was
the joy that I found through service. My
interest began in Individuals and Societies
classes and grew through my involvement with
community projects. Founding and leading the
schools ImpactHK student group and working
as a volunteer at a local charity that supports
children with terminal diseases reinforced
my desire to make an impact in the lives of
others.
Cherry Lee, Class of 2021
17 18

ACCREDITATIONS & AUTHORISATIONS
MEMBERSHIPS
33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
+852 2655 1111
office@hkacademy.edu.hk
www.hkacademy.edu.hk
The wood-based raw material used to produce the paper for this publication
originates from sustainably managed forests, and soy inks were used for printing.
LEARN MORE ABOUT
HONG KONG ACADEMY
Book a personalised tour
FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOR THE LATEST UPDATE
@HongKongAcademy @hongkongacademy @Hong Kong Academy Hong Kong Academy @hongkongacademy