3 - A Decade of Reform in Hong Kong

Summary

In 2002, Hong Kong embarked on a carefully planned and ambitious ten-year reform of its primary, secondary and tertiary education. The central aim was to promote whole person development of students and a disposition towards lifelong learning to meet the needs of life and work in the twenty-first century. Changes in curriculum, assessment, pedagogy and far-ranging structural changes were introduced. Most significant is the introduction of the Hong Kong Diploma in Secondary Education (HKDSE), for all students, replacing the old British system of examinations at 16+ and 18+. The reforms have increased access of students to senior secondary studies whilst maintaining or improving standards of achievement. These reforms required thorough, on-going coordination, evaluation and renewal. Government expenditure increased and support for the recruitment and training of teachers and school leaders has been important. Hong Kong demonstrated that it is possible to introduce a more broad, balanced and coherent curriculum and assessment system whilst preserving or enhancing excellence.