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St. Stephen's College

Hong Kong

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Mandarin
Fees HK$74,550 - 150,866
Ages 12 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 600
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 1903
Bus Service No
Part of
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum
Taught languages English, Mandarin, Spanish
Typical class size 35
Strengths Performing Arts, STEM, Service and Sustainability
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, High School
Introduction

St. Stephen’s College is a co-educational secondary school in Stanley on Hong Kong Island, offering dual pathways to the HKDSE and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) in senior years. The 150,000 m² campus—described by the school as Hong Kong’s largest secondary campus—includes numerous academic, sports and arts facilities, plus boarding across six dormitories for more than 400 students. Signature initiatives include a Creativity Programme (e.g., iEngineering, Creative Ceramics, Creative Music and Creative Media) and a Service Learning Programme. Students access a wide range of ECA groups from academic societies and debate teams to music ensembles and community service clubs. The College highlights English and Chinese (including Putonghua) in its learning aims. The school’s Heritage Trail also showcases on-campus historic buildings, reflecting a long history since 1903.

This campus is part of St. Stephen's College

St. Stephen's College, 22 Tung Tau Wan Rd, Stanley, Hong Kong,

The Essentials

St. Stephen's College has 600 pupils, typical class sizes of 35, instruction in English, Mandarin.

Location

St. Stephen’s College is situated in Stanley area on the southern side of Hong Kong Island. The campus covers about 150,000 m² and is surrounded by green hills and coastal views. It is easily accessible by several public bus and minibus routes connecting the area to major urban districts such as Central and Causeway Bay. The school’s setting offers a quiet atmosphere while remaining within practical commuting distance of the city.

Stages

The College provides secondary education from Form 1 (S1) to Form 6 (S6) for students typically aged 12 to 18. The lower forms (S1–S3) follow a broad general curriculum, while the upper forms (S4–S6) allow students to choose between the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

Type

St. Stephen’s College is a co-educational Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) school offering both day and boarding options. Boarding is available for local and overseas students, with accommodation for more than 400 boarders across six dormitories in four buildings.

Additional learning support

The school provides a Guidance Service consisting of guidance teachers and two social workers, supporting students’ social, emotional, family, and academic needs. There is no publicly disclosed dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) or specialist provision.

Country affiliation

The College has no foreign national affiliation. It is a local Hong Kong school under the Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) administered by Hong Kong’s Education Bureau.

Religious affiliation

St. Stephen’s College was founded as a Christian school and continues to maintain its Christian heritage, with a chapel on campus and regular religious activities.

School day structure

The College publishes an annual calendar showing school terms, holidays, and events. Daily start and end times are not publicly stated on the website, but the structure includes regular assemblies, chapel services, and scheduled lunch breaks.

Bus service

The school does not operate its own bus service. However, it provides detailed directions and lists public transport options, including Citybus routes 6, 6A, 6X, 14, 63, 65, 73, 260, 973, and green minibus routes 16M, 16X, 40, 52 to Stanley. Parents may also apply for a vehicle pick-up/drop-off permit via the school’s Important Documents section.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements

The boarding programme emphasizes holistic education, fostering students' independence, confidence and social skills. The campus provides six dormitories across four buildings: Martin Hostel; School House – East Wing and West Wing; North House; and College House (Blocks A & B). Boarding staff provide care and support to ensure student well-being.

Food Options

Dining areas include a Dining Hall at the Alex Y.D. Au Building and a Tuck Shop in the same building. There is also a Dining Hall at Martin Hostel.

House System

The school uses a house system with inter-house competitions in athletics and cross country.

Governance and Ownership

The school operates as a Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) school and does not participate in the standard Secondary School Places Allocation System. Governance is provided by the College Council, which is chaired by Dr. Raymond Ch'ien; the Principal of the College is Kelvin Lo.
Fees

Annual tuition at St. Stephen's College ranges from HKD 74,550 to HKD 150,866 for 2026/27.

Application Fees
The school does not list a specific application or entrance fee on its public admissions pages. Applications for Form 1 are submitted online during the official admissions window. Required documents and scholarship applications (for music, sports, visual arts, and special talents) can be uploaded through the same portal.

Tuition Fees (Per Year)
For the 2025–2026 academic year, tuition fees are:

* Permanent Residents: HKD 74,550 per year
* Non-Permanent Residents: HKD 150,866 per year

The school notes that these figures are for reference only and may change for the following academic year. Fees are paid annually through an approved direct-debit authorization.

Billing Schedule and Payment Terms
All tuition and boarding fees are paid via Direct Debit Authorization from a Hong Kong bank account. The school does not publicly specify installment dates or termly breakdowns.

Boarding Fees
St. Stephen’s College offers boarding accommodation for over 400 students across six dormitories in four buildings. The website does not disclose current boarding fee amounts.

Refund Policy
Refund and withdrawal conditions are not detailed on the school’s public pages.

Payment Options
All payments are processed through Direct Debit Authorization from local bank accounts. No alternative payment methods are specified.
Academics

St. Stephen's College teaches IB (DP), British Curriculum for students aged 12 to 18.

Curriculum

St. Stephen’s College offers a dual academic pathway leading to either the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Students in Forms 1–3 follow a broad curriculum designed to build a strong foundation across languages, sciences, mathematics, humanities, and the arts. From Form 4 onward, students may select the HKDSE stream, which includes core subjects such as Chinese Language, English Language, Mathematics, and Citizenship and Social Development, along with a choice of electives. Alternatively, students entering Forms 5–6 may pursue the IB Diploma Programme, offering subjects across the six IB groups, including Language A, Language B, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and The Arts. Both streams emphasise bilingual proficiency in English and Chinese (including Putonghua) and encourage participation in creative and service-based programmes that complement academic learning.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

St. Stephen’s College provides student well-being support primarily through its Guidance Service, which consists of guidance teachers and two social workers. The team helps students address family, social, emotional, and academic difficulties. They also provide counselling and connect students with relevant resources when needed. The school website does not describe a specific Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum or programme by name. Beyond the Guidance Service, no other SEL initiatives or structured programmes are publicly detailed.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school does not publicly disclose detailed information about a Special Educational Needs (SEN) programme or policy. The available information focuses on the Guidance Service, which supports students with general emotional, family, and academic challenges. The school does not specify any specialist SEN staff, dedicated learning support units, or specific SEN categories it can accommodate. There is no indication that St. Stephen’s College is a specialist SEN institution.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding EAL provision or support. While English is listed as one of the main languages of instruction, and Chinese (including Putonghua) is also emphasized, there is no mention of targeted assistance or programmes for students learning English as an additional language.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental well-being support at St. Stephen’s College is provided through the Guidance Service, which includes two qualified social workers working alongside guidance teachers. They assist students facing emotional, family, or academic difficulties and promote healthy adjustment and coping within the school environment. Beyond this service, the school does not publicly describe additional mental health initiatives, workshops, or partnerships with external counsellors.

Safeguarding

The school website does not publicly disclose a safeguarding or child protection policy. While the site includes administrative documents such as forms and annual reports, no explicit safeguarding framework or procedures are published for parents or students. There is no reference to designated safeguarding staff or official protection training on the publicly available pages.
Parent Experience

History

St. Stephen’s College was founded in 1903 as a Christian boys’ school and is one of Hong Kong’s oldest educational institutions. It relocated to its current campus in Stanley in 1928–1929, where several of its buildings have since been declared historic monuments. The school became co-educational in 1968 and has maintained its tradition of boarding education throughout its history. The campus features a Heritage Trail, established in 2008, which highlights the school’s historical buildings and commemorates its long-standing role in Hong Kong’s education system.

Community

St. Stephen’s College promotes a vibrant community through its extensive co-curricular programme, chapel services, and campus-wide events. The school encourages students to engage in community service through initiatives such as the Service Learning Programme and environmental group Greenergy. Cultural and creative activities, including music performances, drama, and art exhibitions, form an integral part of student life. The school calendar also features major annual events such as Speech Day and inter-house competitions that strengthen school spirit.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at St. Stephen’s College plays an active role in supporting school events and fostering collaboration between families and teachers. The PTA organizes regular parent meetings, workshops, and talks that help families stay involved in school life. Parents can also participate in school events through volunteer programmes and contribute feedback via official channels. Information such as PTA newsletters, administrative forms, and event notices is made available on the school’s website. The school calendar highlights occasions where parents are invited, such as academic briefings, parent-teacher consultations, and cultural events.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

St Stephen's College occupies about 150,000 square metres (almost 40 acres) on the Stanley Peninsula and is the largest secondary school in Hong Kong. The campus contains more than 60 classrooms and a range of specialist rooms and activity spaces, plus two halls, three sports pitches and five dormitories among thousands of trees. The Academic Buildings include Classroom Block, Centenary Building, Leung Kau Kui Student Centre and a Special Room Block. The Library and other landmarks such as Heritage Gallery, Chapel Annex and Outdoor Auditorium are part of the campus, with dining facilities integrated on site. The campus is undergoing ongoing expansion to support future learning.

Sports Facilities

Indoor facilities include the Indoor Fitness Centre at Benevolence House and the Indoor Sports Centre at Tang Shiu Kin Hall. Outdoor facilities include Martin Basketball Court, North House Basketball Court, North House Tennis Court and the Big Field. These spaces support a range of on-site athletic activities.

Academic Facilities

Academic Buildings include Classroom Block, Centenary Building, Leung Kau Kui Student Centre, Special Room Block and Benevolence House. The campus houses Biology Laboratory, Chemistry Laboratory, Computer Room, Physics Laboratory and Science Laboratory. Dining Areas include Dining Hall at Alex Y.D. Au Building, Tuck Shop at Alex Y.D. Au Building and Dining Hall at Martin Hostel. The Library is on site, and other landmarks include Heritage Gallery, Chapel Annex Luke Yip Building and Outdoor Auditorium. Dormitories include Martin Hostel, East Wing, West Wing, North House and College House.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Music has always been an integral part of school life. Our extra-curricular musical groups include: College Choir, College Chinese Orchestra, College Orchestra, Creative Music Team, College Symphonic Band and Music Society. Sports are offered as part of co-curricular activities, including Archery, Athletics & Cross Country, Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Dance, Darts, Fencing, Football, Hockey, Indoor Rowing, Swimming, Table-tennis, Tennis, Volleyball and Beach Volleyball. A wide range of ECA Groups exists, such as Animal Care, Art Club, Audio & Visual Support Team, Battle of Books Team, Chinese Calligraphy Club, English Debate Team, Model United Nations, Photography Club, Red Cross Unit, UNICEF Club and more. There is a House system with Inter House Athletics and Cross Country competitions. Guidance Service provides a range of programs to support students, including Mentorship, Big Brother and Sister Scheme, Healthy School Program, Wellness for Youth Program, Stress Relief Program, Seeds Program, New Mainland Student's Program and more.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

St Stephen's College offers a range of ECA groups that emphasize academic inquiry and intellectual development. The groups include Battle of Books Team, Chinese Debate Team, English Debate Team, History Society, Geography Society, Mathematics Society, Science Society, Liberal Studies Society, Business, Accounting & Finance Society, Inno Tech Club and Model United Nations. These clubs provide opportunities for research, debate and competition and support collaboration across disciplines. Participation in ECAs develops critical thinking and subject-specific knowledge.

Arts & Creative

Arts and creativity are supported by multiple ECAs. The list includes Art Club, Painting Club, Photography Club, English Drama Club and Music Society, complemented by the Audio & Visual Support Team. These groups enable students to create, perform and showcase work through events and exhibitions. They contribute to the campus cultural life and provide avenues for artistic expression.

Cultural & Language

Japanese Culture Club, Chinese Calligraphy Club, Chinese Society and Hispanic Club are cultural and language ECAs. They provide opportunities to explore language and heritage through organized activities. The clubs contribute to cross-cultural understanding within the school community. They complement the College's emphasis on global awareness.

Social & Hobbies

Board Games Club, Cookery Club, Nature Appreciation Club and Greenergy are social and hobby ECAs. These groups offer informal spaces for students to share interests and build friendships beyond class time. They support teamwork, creativity and recreational learning outside the core curriculum.

Community & Service

Red Cross Unit, UNICEF Club, Community Youth Club, Christian Fellowship and ORBIS Student Ambassadors are community and service ECAs. These groups organize service activities and community engagement opportunities. They provide platforms for volunteering and social responsibility within the school community.

Leadership & Professional

Students' Association, Students' Council, Model United Nations, and Student Librarians' Club are leadership and professional ECAs. They offer opportunities to develop leadership, organisation and communication skills. Eruditio (the student magazine) and the ORBIS Student Ambassadors program also contribute to student leadership and professional development.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Scout Troop and Nature Appreciation Club are lifestyle and wellbeing ECAs. These groups promote outdoor activity and personal well-being. Greenergy is a lifestyle-oriented ECA focused on environmental awareness and sustainable living.
Languages

Language Provision

Medium of Instruction is mainly English for most subjects, with Chinese-based subjects taught in Chinese. Putonghua is the medium of instruction for Chinese Language across Junior Secondary (S1-S3). The school has a substantial number of native-speaking teachers of English and Putonghua. Education support is provided for non-Chinese-speaking students.

Immersion Programs

The school has an Exchange and Immersion Programme as part of its What's Unique offerings. The programme is designed to ignite curiosity and a sense of wonder and is one of four special programmes (creativity, exchange and immersion, service learning, mentoring).
Reputation

Awards

The school’s website does not list any school-level institutional awards.

Accreditations

International Baccalaureate World School (IBDP) – The school is authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Senior Secondary (S5–S6).

Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) school – The school operates under the Hong Kong Government’s DSS model, which allows more autonomy and fee-charging while receiving government subsidy.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Online Application
Applications for Form 1 (S1) entry are completed online during the official admissions period (typically early October to early December). Families create an account through the school’s portal and upload required documents such as academic reports, conduct records, and certificates for co-curricular participation. Applicants can also submit optional scholarship applications for music, sports, visual arts, and special talents through the same system.

2. Admission Talks and Interview Schedule
The school hosts admissions talks for interested families, followed by interviews for shortlisted applicants. Interviews are generally held in January, and results are released by April for the following academic year. The school publishes a yearly schedule with all key dates.

3. Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Applicants are expected to demonstrate good academic performance and conduct (typically a “B” grade or above in Primary 4 – 5 school reports). The school uses a weighted selection system: Academic 50, Interview 37, Extra-curricular achievements 10, and Other factors 3 (including children of alumni, staff, or siblings currently enrolled).

4. Allocation and Acceptance
As a Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS school, St Stephen’s College operates outside the government’s Secondary School Places Allocation System. Successful applicants receive offers directly from the school, and families confirm acceptance through the admissions portal within the specified timeline.

Scholarships

1. Academic Scholarships
Academic scholarships are automatically awarded each year to students with top academic results and good conduct. Awards are given as full (100%) or half (50%) tuition remissions. Eligibility is based on yearly ranking: Forms 1 – 3 (Junior) and Forms 4 – 5 / IB (Senior).

2. Non-Academic Scholarships
Non-academic scholarships are offered in music, sports, visual arts, and special talents. These are merit-based and require an annual application. Students may receive fixed-amount awards of HKD 40,000 (Gold), HKD 20,000 (Silver), HKD 8,000 (Bronze), or HKD 2,000 (Iron), depending on their achievement level.

3. Additional Awards
The school also recognises contributions to service, leadership, and community involvement through donor- and alumni-sponsored prizes. These awards are reviewed annually and are intended to encourage ongoing participation in co-curricular and service learning.

Waitlist

The school does not publicly describe a waitlist or pool system on its admissions pages.
School Events
The school has not added events