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South Island School

Hong Kong

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees HK$167,600 - 181,100
Ages 11 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 1400
Type Co-educational
Opened 1977
Bus Service Yes
Part of
English Schools Foundation
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), BTEC Qualification, Cambridge IGCSE
Taught languages English, French, Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish
Typical class size 22
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies, Community and Service, Leadership and Professional, Lifestyle and Wellbeing
Stages Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

South Island School is an English-medium, Years 7–13 secondary on Hong Kong Island’s south side (Deep Water Bay/Aberdeen). It offers the IB Middle Years Programme in Years 7–9, IGCSEs (Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel) in Years 10–11, and three senior pathways in Years 12–13: IB Diploma Programme, IB Career-related Programme (including BTEC options), and the SIS Diploma. The campus includes a renovated School Hall that seats 400+ for performances and a rugby-appropriate AstroTurf pitch. The language of instruction is English, with Chinese, French, Japanese, Spanish, and Korean offered through multiple pathways. A distinctive feature is the school’s Making a Difference ethos, seen in community projects within the MYP and whole-school events such as International Evening, TEDxTSIS, and service-oriented programmes.

This campus is part of English Schools Foundation

50 Nam Fung Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong

The Essentials

South Island School has 1,400 pupils, typical class sizes of 22, instruction in English.

Location
South Island School is located at 50 Nam Fung Road, Deep Water Bay / Aberdeen, on Hong Kong Island. It is in a semi-rural green setting, backed by Mount Nicholson and facing the South China Sea, yet connected via local bus routes (e.g. Citybus 76, 41A) and taxi access (though campus gates are closed during school hours).

Stages
The school serves Years 7 to 13. Within that span, it provides middle years (7–9), IGCSE (10–11), and senior years (12–13) programmes

Type
South Island School is a co-educational day school.

Additional learning support
SIS operates an inclusive model of support, with tiered “Levels of Adjustment” (LOA) from 1 through 4 for students requiring accommodations. Students at LOA 3–4 can access more specialised provisions via the Learning Support Centre, small-group classes, or alternative curricula. In some cases, the school may request a private Educational Assistant to support a student’s classroom access or care.

Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.

Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliations.

School day structure
The official school hours vary by day: on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays the day runs 7:55 am to 3:15 pm; on Tuesdays the start is later, and Fridays end earlier (7:55 am to 12:55 pm).

Bus service
The school provides a bus service operated by Kwoon Chung Bus Services across Hong Kong Island. Students are typically picked up near homes or public transport nodes (it is not purely door-to-door). The bus application, route information, and fee payments are managed via an online platform.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniforms are required for Years 7-11 and are ordered online via schooluniform.hk (South Island School collection) or at the supplier's Lai Chi Kok outlet. The Uniform Supplier provides sizing guidance and exchanges; items are delivered within 3-5 business days, and orders over HK$500 qualify for free shipping. A Uniform Guide exists for Years 12-13.

Food Options
There are three on-site food outlets: the Refectory on the Ground Floor of D Block, the Atrium on the 5th floor of C Block, and Cafe Five-O at the school entrance. Outlets are operated by Chartwells and accept Octopus cards. Year 12-13 students may eat in the Diploma Centre; breaks allow eating in classrooms for Years 9-13, while Years 7-8 use the SPACE.

House System
The House system at South Island School comprises six Houses. Two Families are split into three Houses each, with Year 12 students selected as House Captains. The Head of Activities coordinates inter-house events, including Cross Country, Musicfest, Athletics, and Swim Gala, along with additional competitions and activities.

Governance and Ownership
The school is part of the English Schools Foundation (ESF), the largest English-medium international school network in Hong Kong. ESF provides governance and resources for the school.
Fees

Annual tuition at South Island School ranges from HKD 167,600 to HKD 181,100 for 2026/27.

Application Fee

* A one-time, non-refundable application fee of HKD 2,800 per applicant.
* This covers admissions administration and must be paid at the time of application.

Tuition Fees (per year, payable over 10 months)

* Years 7–10: HKD 181,100
* Year 11: HKD 159,400
* Years 12–13: HKD 167,600

Billing and Payment Schedule

* Tuition fees are paid in ten monthly instalments (August to May) by mandatory direct debit.
* Payments are due on the first day of each month.

Deposit

* A deposit equivalent to two months of school fees must be paid when a place is accepted.
* Half of this deposit is offset against the first month’s fee, while the remainder is credited against the last month’s fee (if withdrawal notice conditions are met).

Other Charges

* Non-Refundable Capital Levy (NCL): A one-off, sliding-scale fee, ranging from HKD 26,000 for Year 7 to HKD 3,800 for Year 13, payable when joining ESF schools.
* Families may also choose Individual Nomination Rights (INR) or Corporate Nomination Rights (CNR) for interview priority.

Refund Policy

* Deposits are only offset against tuition (not refunded as cash).
* Fees remain payable if a student goes on leave during term.

Payment Options

* Payments are made by direct debit for tuition.
* Application fees are paid via credit card or PayPal.

Academics

South Island School teaches IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), BTEC Qualification, Cambridge IGCSE for students aged 11 to 18.

Curriculum
Students in Years 7 to 9 follow the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP), which combines subject learning with skills development and community projects. In Years 10 and 11, students prepare for external examinations through a mix of Cambridge IGCSE and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE subjects. At the senior level, Years 12 and 13, the school offers three distinct pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP), and the SIS Diploma. The IBCP includes vocational options such as BTEC qualifications, providing flexibility for students with different interests and strengths. Across all stages, English is the main language of instruction, and students study additional languages including Chinese, French, Japanese, Spanish, and Korean. This structure allows progression from broad foundational learning in the middle years to specialised qualifications in the senior years.

Academic calendar
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
South Island School delivers SEL mainly through its Pastoral Learning Curriculum (PLC), which explicitly includes wellbeing, values, and citizenship strands. Tutor groups in Years 7–9 integrate SEL activities into daily routines, and students work with a consistent tutor who monitors their development. The school also runs Values in Action (VIA), where students engage in projects that build empathy, teamwork, and responsibility. Leadership opportunities, such as the Student Council and Diversity Council, also provide practical contexts for developing social and emotional skills.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school operates an inclusive model using “Levels of Adjustment” (LOA 1-4) to tier support within mainstream classes, with Educational Assistants for LOA 3 and 4. The Learning Diversity / Individual Needs Department collaborates with teachers to plan adjustments and interventions. Students needing greater support may attend Learning Support Centre (LSC) classes, follow bespoke curricula, and use alternative programmes (e.g. ASDAN, TQUK) especially in senior years. Exam access arrangements are provided to eligible students under regulatory bodies (IB, exam boards) based on documented need. The school is not a specialist SEN institution, but a regular school with inclusive provisions.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
South Island School refers to such students as Bilingual or Multilingual Learners (BMLs) and offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) classes and enrichment programmes to help them develop language competence. Teachers receive training in strategies for bilingual/multilingual learners to support them in mainstream classes. New Y7 students are assessed to identify support needs in reading, writing or speaking English; those needing help may be scheduled into pull-out or targeted support.

Mental Wellbeing

The vice principal is responsible for overseeing well-being systems, and the school states that well-being is at the “heart” of its practices. The school uses surveys and reflective tools (especially within DEI and inclusion work) to monitor belonging and psychological safety. The Family Leadership Team (FLT) collaborates with staff to provide multi-layered support to students.

Safeguarding
South Island School states that ESF “upholds every child’s right to learn and live in conditions that protect them from harm,” and anchors actions in strong policy, proactive and responsive measures, and collaboration with families. The school maintains a Child Protection Officers Network as part of ESF’s system. The school’s policies (e.g. via its “Key School Policies” page) include safeguarding, privacy, and conduct guidelines.


Safeguarding Policy
Parent Experience

History
South Island School was founded in 1977 as part of the English Schools Foundation (ESF), Hong Kong’s largest English-medium school system. Over time it has expanded its facilities, programmes, and leadership under ESF governance, maintaining affiliation with ESF’s network of member schools.

Community
The staff community counts around 200 teaching, administrative, and facilities staff from over 24 nationalities, reflecting cultural diversity. The school hosts cultural events, such as International Evening, festivals, and shared celebrations, which bring together students, parents, and staff to showcase languages, arts, and cultural traditions.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The SIS PTA is mandatory for all ESF families, with a membership fee of HKD 200 per family (2024–25 year) included in start-of-year charges. The PTA organizes education evenings for parents to improve understanding of school programmes and student progress. It supports social, educational, and fundraising activities, and runs a parent volunteer scheme so families can assist in school events and initiatives.
Gallery
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The ESF South Island School campus is located at 50 Nam Fung Road, Deep Water Bay, Hong Kong. The campus sits on the green southern side of Hong Kong Island with views toward Mount Nicholson and the South China Sea. It provides a modern learning environment with classrooms fitted with the latest interactive and digital equipment and robust wireless networks. Every student has a personal locker and a tutor group base room; for Years 12-13 there is a dedicated study facility and common room. The school operates in English as the medium of instruction.

Sports Facilities
The Sports Hall is a spacious gym featuring 6 badminton courts, 1 netball court, 3 volleyball courts, 2 practice basketball courts, 1 full-length basketball court, and a rock climbing wall. It also contains two classrooms for PE and sports classes and a balcony gym with free weights, weight machines, and cardio equipment. The hall is air conditioned and equipped with an audio system.

Academic Facilities
The Hall seats over 400 spectators and is equipped with professional sound and lighting systems for assemblies, concerts, drama productions and other large events. The SPACE is a multi-purpose venue used for classes, student socialisation, and events, with AV equipment and a stage; seating up to 250, and it can be divided to create quiet areas. Classrooms are fitted with the latest interactive and digital equipment and are supported by robust wireless networks across the campus. For Years 12-13, there is a dedicated study facility and common room.

Extra Curricular Facilities
South Island promotes physical activity with a wide range of sports and facilities. Extracurricular activities span diverse offerings, focusing on skill development, personal growth, and relationships with teachers and coaches in a well-structured program. The House system consists of 6 Houses and supports Interhouse activities to build strong school spirit and belonging. MAD WEEK focuses on Creativity, Activity, and Service and is held annually. The school provides student leadership opportunities through councils and initiatives that empower students to take leadership roles.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Expanding Horizons is the third strand of the South Island Curriculum, providing out-of-class opportunities to become more rounded and engaged. Drama and Music programmes develop creativity and public performance. Debating and environmental activities are part of the Activities programme, and MaD Week offers week-long experiences focused on Creativity, Activity and Service, selected by the MaD Council. The Prefect system and Student Council provide leadership roles as part of real-world learning, and the HKAYP outward bound programme develops teamwork, leadership and resilience.

Arts & Creative
Drama and Music programmes offer opportunities to develop creativity and public performance. The International Evening features a festival of dance and song, and the school hosts Diwali celebrations and other cultural events that showcase performing arts. Students are encouraged to engage in ensemble work and public performances across these events.

Cultural & Language
Diwali is celebrated at South Island School, and the International Evening includes a festival of dance and song, reflecting the school's international character. These events provide opportunities to explore diverse cultures and international perspectives.

Social & Hobbies
South Island School offers a huge extracurricular activities programme, including sports coaching, debating, environmental work, and news production. Activities extend beyond the classroom and encourage trying new things and building peer relationships. The programme is supported by dedicated teachers and coaches.

Community & Service
MaD Week focuses on Creativity, Activity and Service, with opportunities for local and overseas activities chosen by the MaD Council; students engage in charity and service through MaD activities, and the House system supports community improvement. All students participate in Community Engagement as part of coursework to engage with the local community and foster a service mindset.

Leadership & Professional
The Prefect system provides vertical tutoring and leadership opportunities; Bauhinia Prefects run activities for Year 7 and 8 and support new students. The Student Leadership programme includes several student-led councils and events, and the Careers Conference offers professional development opportunities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Well-being is at the heart of the school, with a healthy, inclusive and supportive environment and a focus on positive mental health. The Pastoral Learning Curriculum (PLC) is taught during Tutor Time to explicitly teach health and well-being, build resilience and social capital. The school promotes sport and physical activity through a wide range of sports and facilities, including an indoor 25m pool, a sports hall, floodlit astroturf, a fitness and weight training area, a climbing wall, and indoor gymnastics and trampolining.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the medium of instruction. World Language classes are offered, including Chinese. English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support bilingual and multilingual learners, and the school recognises the importance of each learner's mother tongue. In Years 7–9, Intensive English may replace Chinese or World Language classes, and in Years 10–11 English Enrichment provides additional English support.
Reputation

Awards
The school does not highlight any institutional awards won by the school.

Accreditations
* Council of International Schools (CIS) — an international accreditation body that evaluates schools on governance, curriculum, teaching quality, and student outcomes; SIS underwent its five-year CIS review and earned an extension.
* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) — a U.S.-based accrediting agency; SIS completed a WASC five-year review, resulting in an accreditation extension.
* International Baccalaureate (IBO / IB World School status) — the school is authorized to deliver the IB programmes (MYP, DP, IBCP).



Admissions

Admissions
1. Online Application Submission
Families submit an online application through the ESF admissions portal, selecting up to four ESF school preferences. The application includes the non-refundable administration fee.

2. Assessment / Interview / Testing
Applicants (for years other than entry levels) are invited to attend assessments or interviews to evaluate their readiness for the English-medium curriculum. Shortlisted candidates are notified with schedules for testing and interviews.

3. Offer of Place & Acceptance
If successful and if a vacancy exists, the school issues an offer of place. The family must accept by a deadline, after which a deposit or building levy may be required.

4. Onboarding & Entry Requirements
Once accepted, the student is integrated into the school system, including orientation, registration, and payment of fees per the school’s billing schedule. Families may also be asked to submit supporting documents (previous school records, medical records, etc.). (No explicit public detail on every onboarding step is given beyond the above, so some of this is inferred from standard practice and the admissions overview.)

5. Waitlist Consideration
If no immediate place is available, the candidate may be placed into a waitlist or pool (see below). Offers from the waitlist may be made when places become available.

Scholarships
South Island school does not provide information about any financial assistance via scholarships or aid.

Waitlist
SIS (via ESF) does maintain a waiting list / pool system for school places when demand exceeds vacancies. Applicants are placed on the waitlist in priority order, and if a vacancy arises, offers may be extended from the waitlist by date of application and priority group.
School Events
The school has not added events
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