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{{short description|International school in Hong Kong}}
{{short description|International school in Hong Kong}}
{{More citations needed|date=June 2024}}
{{Use British English|date=September 2012}}
{{Use British English|date=September 2012}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}}
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| type = Private, secondary, co-educational, comprehensive, international
| type = Private, secondary, co-educational, comprehensive, international
| principal = Stephen Loggie
| principal = Stephen Loggie
| faculty = 200
| faculty = 20
| motto =
| motto = Celebrates Individuality, Pursues Excellence, Embraces Responsibility
| enrollment = over 1,200
| enrollment = Over 1,300
| free_label = Years
| free_label = Years
| yearbook = The Islander
| free_text = [[Education in England#School years|Year 7–13]]
| free_text = [[Education in England#School years|Year 7–13]]
| free_label1 = Alumni
| free_label1 = Alumni
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| location = 20 Borrett Road, [[Mid-Levels]], Hong Kong
| location = 20 Borrett Road, [[Mid-Levels]], Hong Kong
| website = http://www.island.edu.hk/
| website = http://www.island.edu.hk/
| student_union = The Island School Student Council is the voice of the students. It guarantees that all students have a platform for communicating their viewpoints and thoughts with respect to student life and are responsible for representing the student body and improving the student experience at Island School. It also offers students the ability to take part in improving Island School as a whole.
| colours = {{color box|red}}{{color box|white}}{{color box|darkblue}} Red, white and blue
| colours = {{color box|red}}{{color box|white}}{{color box|darkblue}} Red, white and blue
| teams = Island School Typhoons
| houses = Da Vinci, Einstein, Fleming, Nansen, Rutherford, Wilberforce
| houses = Da Vinci, Einstein, Fleming, Nansen, Rutherford, Wilberforce
}}
}}
{{Chinese
{{Infobox Chinese
| t = 港島中學
| t = 港島中學
| s = 港岛中学
| s = 港岛中学
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| order = ts
| order = ts
}}
}}
⚫
'''Island School''' ([[Sinitic languages|Chinese:]] 港島中學) is a [[co-educational]] international school located in [[Hong Kong]], [[China]]. Established in 1967, it is a founding member of the [[English Schools Foundation]]. The school has been accredited by international organisations such as the Council of International Schools<ref>{{cite web |url=http://portal.cois.org/wcm/core/schooldetails.aspx?school_ID=13378 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130414223422/http://portal.cois.org/wcm/core/schooldetails.aspx?school_ID=13378 |archive-date=14 April 2013 |title=School Information Page |url-status=live |access-date=16 July 2012 }}</ref> and the [[Western Association of Schools and Colleges]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.acswasc.org/directory_searchdetail.cfm?O=6625&Schl=Island%20School&City=&Cat=0&Cnty=0&SchoolCat=Private%20School&Name=Island%20School&Page=1 |title=WASC Accrediting Commission for Schools |access-date=16 July 2012}}</ref> The school currently houses over 1,200 students across 33 nationalities.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|title=ESF Island School Tai Wai Campus|url=https://internationalschools.edb.hkedcity.net/searchResult.php?id=173&lang=en|access-date=2018-09-07}}</ref><ref name="auto1">{{cite web|title=ESF Island School Sha Tin Wai Campus|url=https://internationalschools.edb.hkedcity.net/searchResult.php?id=50&lang=en|access-date=2018-09-07}}</ref>


⚫
'''Island School''' ([[Sinitic languages|Chinese:]] 港島中學) is a [[co-educational]] [[international school]] located on the [[Mid-levels]], [[Hong Kong]]. Established in 1967, it is a founding member of the [[English Schools Foundation]]. The school has been accredited by international organisations such as the Council of International Schools<ref>{{cite web |url=http://portal.cois.org/wcm/core/schooldetails.aspx?school_ID=13378 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130414223422/http://portal.cois.org/wcm/core/schooldetails.aspx?school_ID=13378 |archive-date=14 April 2013 |title=School Information Page |url-status=live |access-date=16 July 2012 }}</ref> and the [[Western Association of Schools and Colleges]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.acswasc.org/directory_searchdetail.cfm?O=6625&Schl=Island%20School&City=&Cat=0&Cnty=0&SchoolCat=Private%20School&Name=Island%20School&Page=1 |title=WASC Accrediting Commission for Schools |access-date=16 July 2012}}</ref> The school currently houses over 1,200 students across 33 nationalities.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|title=ESF Island School Tai Wai Campus|url=https://internationalschools.edb.hkedcity.net/searchResult.php?id=173&lang=en|access-date=2018-09-07}}</ref><ref name="auto1">{{cite web|title=ESF Island School Sha Tin Wai Campus|url=https://internationalschools.edb.hkedcity.net/searchResult.php?id=50&lang=en|access-date=2018-09-07}}</ref>
⚫
The school has relocated itself twice since its establishment. Using the site of a former [[British Military Hospital, Hong Kong|British military hospital]] from 1967 to 1972, the school permanently settled in 20 Borrett Road, [[Mid-Levels]] from 1972 to 2017. However, due to redevelopment work, the school temporarily moved to two campuses in Sha Tin District from December 2017. The school has since returned to 20 Borrett Road as of August 2022 after 4 years of redevelopment work.<ref>{{Cite web|title=About Our Redevelopment Project|url=https://island.edu.hk/about-our-redevelopment-project/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>

⚫
The school has relocated itself twice since its establishment. Using the site of a former [[British Military Hospital, Hong Kong|British military hospital]] from 1967 to 1972, the school permanently settled in 20 Borrett Road, [[Mid-Levels]] from 1972 to 2017. However, due to redevelopment work, the school temporarily moved to two campuses in Sha Tin District in December 2017. The school has since returned to 20 Borrett Road as of August 2022 after 4 years of redevelopment work.<ref>{{Cite web|title=About Our Redevelopment Project|url=https://island.edu.hk/about-our-redevelopment-project/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>


Island School is a registered [[International Baccalaureate|IB]] World School and offers the IB diploma program along with an alternative [[Business and Technology Education Council|BTEC]] program in the senior years. Island School also offers the [[International General Certificate of Secondary Education|IGCSE]] in Years 10-11.
Island School is a registered [[International Baccalaureate|IB]] World School and offers the IB diploma program along with an alternative [[Business and Technology Education Council|BTEC]] program in the senior years. Island School also offers the [[International General Certificate of Secondary Education|IGCSE]] in Years 10-11.
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==History ==
==History ==
The school opened in 1967 to meet increasing demand for schooling for the children of expatriates living in Hong Kong. As there were no secondary schools for English speaking children on Hong Kong Island, the Hong Kong government established the English Schools Foundation (ESF) in 1965 to provide additional schools for expatriate British children. Island School was the first ESF secondary school, adopting the Chinese name of 英童中學, literally translated as "Secondary school for British children". It was located in a former British military hospital from 1967-72 until it permanently settled in 20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels from 1972-2017.
Island School was founded in 1967 as the first secondary school of the English Schools Foundation.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Island School|url=https://www.esf.edu.hk/island-school/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=English Schools Foundation {{!}} 22 International Schools in HK|language=en-US}}</ref>


The first principal of Island School was the Reverend Geoffrey Speak who was appointed from St Paul's College in 1967. Rev. Speak, a graduate of [[Selwyn College, Cambridge]], combined the principalship with managing the ESF between 1967 and 1971, during a rather inauspicious time. In 1967 the Cultural Revolution was in its throes with bombs detonated in Central, water was rationed to four hours every fourth day and with Prime Minister Wilson's devaluation the prospect of working in Hong Kong became less financially appealing. The Rev. Speak will be remembered at Island School for his introduction of the "House System" as the basis of pastoral care and for teaching, a system which is still in place today, and as a pioneer of extracurricular activities.
It is an international school, enrolling students from a large number of countries.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scmp.com/article/607864/tragedy-triumph-mirror-society|title=Tragedy, triumph: a mirror of society}}</ref>


In 1971 C. Ronald Rivers-Moore was appointed to succeed Rev. Speak as principal. Rivers-Moore, a [[University of Cambridge|Cambridge graduate]], continued Rev. Speak's vision both in academic policy and through the continuation of the extracurricular program. The introduction of the Nepal Trek, the School Camp, a school zoo and the Student Union are examples of his commitment to that vision. Chris Forse, former Deputy Head and Island School Historian, referred to Rivers-Moore as a man who combined his "integrity with liberal benevolence in roughly equal proportions".
It was located in a former British military hospital from 1967-72 until it permanently settled in 20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels from 1972-2017.


Succeeding Rivers-Moore in 1978 was Charles Jonathan Driver (commonly known as "[[Jonty Driver]]"), a graduate of [[Trinity College, Oxford]]. Driver had been the President of the National Union of Students in South Africa and had been detained by Police in this role for his opposition to apartheid. Driver extended the Island School curriculum to include Drama, Photography and Computing and a pastoral curriculum. A believer in community education, Driver founded the Island School Evening Institute which provided adult education to parents and friends of the Island School community. It was also during Driver's tenure that Island School's lasting student periodical, "The Islet", was established, succeeding the original student newspaper "The Echo". Jonty left Island School in 1983 to become Headmaster at Berkhamsted School, later moving to the prestigious Wellington College in Berkshire. He later published a book about his experiences, at Island School and others, under the title "[https://www.amazon.com/Some-Schools-C-J-Jonty-Driver/dp/1909717975 Some Schools]".
Stephen Loggie is the current principal of Island School. He had previously been a Foundation Principal at two schools, one of which being the [[Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology|Queensland Academy of Science Maths and Technology]].


Dr. Colin Niven, a graduate of [[Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge]] and [[Brasenose College, Oxford]], was principal of Island School between 1983–1988. During his tenure, Dr. Niven raised the prestige of the school internationally, tripling Oxbridge entries while gaining membership of the elite Headmasters Conference. There was a major investment in a new library and the school uniform was replaced. After leaving Island School Dr. Niven became a fellow at [[Westminster College, Oxford]] and later the principal at the prestigious Alleyn's School in London.
The previous principal was Christopher Binge, who had been the secondary principal at the [[La Châtaigneraie (school)|La Châtaigneraie]] campus of the [[International School of Geneva]]. Binge left to become the head of [[Markham College]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://educhanges.com/who-is-chris/|title=Who is Chris?|date=27 August 2015}}</ref>

Mr. David James became the school's first internally appointed principal in 1988. Mr. James was an innovator, introducing the new British National Curriculum, vocational education and the decision to begin the International Baccalaureate at 16–18. He enhanced the responsibilities of the Sixth Form enabling "students to become surrogate teachers and leaders of the school". He broadened the profile of Island School's out-reach efforts in both Hong Kong and abroad through the encouragement of student participation in community service programs among them the Summerbridge and School After School program through which Island School students taught English and life skills to less privileged children. In 1990 Island School became the first ESF school to introduce an Interim Week during which the regular timetable was abandoned for a range of alternative challenges in Hong Kong and overseas.

Mr James retired in 2005 and was succeeded by a deputy principal Mrs. Michelle Hughes, a graduate of Open University. Mrs Hughes's tenure began in difficult circumstances with a pay dispute between the teachers and the ESF which resulted in some curtailing of the extracurricular program and support for parent-run activities like the school fair. Her tenure has been characterised by its attention to meeting the modern imperatives of quality assurance and in the increasing role of "student voice" at Island School. She also helped the School transition to the International Baccalaureate in Y12 and Y13.

Mrs. Hughes left the position in June 2009, and was replaced by Mr Christopher Binge, who had been the secondary principal at the [[La Châtaigneraie (school)|La Châtaigneraie]] campus of the [[International School of Geneva]]. Mr Chris Binge was born and grew up in England, educated at [[University of Cambridge|Cambridge University (MA in Mathematics)]] and the Institute of Education, London (PGCE Maths Education). During his tenure, Binge played a large role in forwarding the Island School Redevelopment Project to redevelop the now quickly deteriorating Borrett Road campus. Binge was also an important driver in the School transitioning to the Middle Years Programme and the Island Futures Programme in the Middle School. In 2016, Binge left to become the head of [[Markham College]].<ref>{{cite web |date=27 August 2015 |title=Who is Chris? |url=https://educhanges.com/who-is-chris/}}</ref>

Mr. Stephen Loggie is the current principal of Island School. He had previously been a foundation principal at two Queensland state schools, one of which being the [[Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology|Queensland Academy of Science Maths and Technology]]. During his time, the school decamped to two separate sites in the New Territories in order for the Borrett Road site to be redeveloped. The new Island School campus on Borrett Road opened in August 2022. Resigning by sending a school-wide email, he stated that, "I am writing to let you know that after 7 years, this academic year will be my last at Island School", and that "ESF is well advanced in making arrangements for recruiting my replacement and I will share details of the process soon". Mr. Loggie's tenure is set to end in December 2024.


==Campus==
==Campus==
[[File: Island School.jpg|thumb|The previous campus of Island School in 2016|290x290px]]
[[File: Island School.jpg|thumb|The previous campus of Island School in 2016|290x290px]]

Island School's former campus consisted of seven blocks ranging from five to seven floors high, with blocks 1 to 6 arranged in a rectangular fashion. Students could travel to adjacent blocks by linked walkways or [[footbridges]]. As the campus was situated on mountainous terrain, blocks located close to the mountain were placed at a higher altitude than their counterparts, and as such the floors between different blocks were often not correlated. In 2018, the former campus was demolished and all learning was diverted to the two decant campuses located in the Sha Tin area.<ref name="auto"/><ref name="auto1"/>
Island School's former campus consisted of seven blocks ranging from five to seven floors high, with blocks 1 to 6 arranged in a rectangular fashion. Students could travel to adjacent blocks by linked walkways or [[footbridges]]. As the campus was situated on mountainous terrain, blocks located close to the mountain were placed at a higher altitude than their counterparts, and as such the floors between different blocks were often not correlated. In 2018, the former campus was demolished and all learning was diverted to the two decant campuses located in the Sha Tin area.<ref name="auto"/><ref name="auto1"/>


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[[File:Island School Class, 1970s, Colorized.png|thumb|320x320px|A class at Island School, circa 1970]]
[[File:Island School Class, 1970s, Colorized.png|thumb|320x320px|A class at Island School, circa 1970]]


=== Middle Phase: Years 7-8 (previously Junior Phase) ===
=== Middle Phase: Years 7–10 ===
‘Island Learning’ is unique to Island School, encouraging students to make connections between their subjects and the real world. The Island Learning units are at the heart of the curriculum. Island Learning has been accredited by the IB organisation as part of their MYP programme.
In Years 7 and 8 students take part in the ‘Island Learning’ program, which has been accredited by the IB organisation as part of their MYP programme.


As students move on to Years 9, 10 & 11, Island Futures is divided into four different areas: entrance, elements, explorations and escape.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Year 9-11 Structure|url=https://island.edu.hk/38732-2/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>
=== Middle Phase: Years 9-11 ===
Island Futures provides a rounded education with a compulsory core, complemented by a wide range of student choices in subjects and courses. These choices are made after discussion and guidance with House staff and teachers, and through consultation with parents. Students are advised of the impact of any choice on their future at school and beyond. It is divided into four different areas: Entrance, Elements, Explorations and Escape.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Year 9-11 Structure|url=https://island.edu.hk/38732-2/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>


=== Senior Phase: Year 12-13 ===
=== Senior Phase: Years 11–13 ===
In their Senior Years, students will choose whether to study the IBCP (Careers Programme) or the IBDP (Diploma Programme).
After completing their IGCSEs/GCSEs in Years 11, students will choose whether to study the IBCP (careers programme) or the IBDP (diploma programme) in their senior years.


Island School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Career Programme. The IBCP offers students who want to focus their education on preparing for their career a specialist pathway. Students on the globally expanding IBCP choose a mixture of IB Diploma Courses and BTEC subjects. The 3 BTEC Courses they choose are as ‘applied’ as possible, this means that when studying the Business course they will be running a business and the TV and Film course sees students doing a lot of filming and editing. They are vocational and are only recognised globally as university entrance but Island School has an exceptional record of placing students from this pathway.
Island School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) career programme. The IBCP offers students who want to focus their education on preparing for their career a specialist pathway. Students on the IBCP choose a mixture of IB diploma courses and BTEC subjects.


The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is an academically challenging and balanced curriculum that prepares students for success at university and beyond. It has been designed to address students' intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being. The programme has gained extensive recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities. Students have to choose six subjects for the full IB Diploma. This must include at least one from each Group 1-5. Students then opt to take up a Group 6 Subject or choose an additional elective subject from Group 1-5. Students must choose 3 subjects at Higher Level and 3 at Standard Level. All IB Diploma students have to complete the IB Core. This includes the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS (Creativity, Activity and Service).<ref>{{Cite web|title=About Years 12-13|url=https://island.edu.hk/curriculum/island-school-senior-phase/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>
The [[International Baccalaureate|International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma programme]] requires students to choose six subjects for the full IB diploma. This must include at least one from each group 1–5. Students then opt to take up a Group 6 Subject or choose an additional elective subject from groups 1–5. Students must choose 3 subjects at higher level and 3 at standard level. All IB diploma students have to complete the IB Ccre. This includes the extended essay, theory of knowledge, and CAS (creativity, activity, and service).<ref>{{Cite web|title=About Years 12-13|url=https://island.edu.hk/curriculum/island-school-senior-phase/|access-date=2022-02-05|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>

Island School offers a great variety of IB subjects:

Group 1 - Studies in Language and Literature (A): English Literature (HL/SL), English/ Chinese Language & Literature (HL/SL), Self Taught Language (SL)

Group 2 - Language Acquisition: Chinese B (HL/SL), French B (HL/SL), French Ab initio (SL), Spanish B (HL/SL), Spanish Ab initio (SL), Japanese B (HL/SL), Japanese Ab initio (SL)

Group 3 - Individuals and Societies: Business & Management, Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Global Politics, Psychology (all offered at HL or SL)

Group 4 - Sciences: Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Design & Technology, Sports, Exercise and Health Science offered at HL or SL, Food Science at SL

Group 5 - Maths: Mathematics applications and interpretations and Mathematical analyses and approaches both at HL and SL

Group 6 - Arts: Theatre, Visual Arts and Music at SL and HL

Interdiciplinary Subjects: English Literature & Performance (1 & 6), Environmental Systems (3 & 4) at SL only<ref>{{Cite web|title=About Years 12-13|url=https://island.edu.hk/curriculum/island-school-senior-phase/|access-date=2024-03-17|website=Island School - ESF|language=en-US}}</ref>


=== Examinations ===
=== Examinations ===
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==Notable alumni and staff==
==Notable alumni and staff==

===Alumni===
===Alumni===
* [[Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.danmarkskonger.dk/king54b.htm|title=Prince Joachim|publisher=danmarkskonger.dk|access-date=27 September 2018|archive-date=1 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801074050/http://www.danmarkskonger.dk/king54b.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.danmarkskonger.dk/king54b.htm|title=Prince Joachim|publisher=danmarkskonger.dk|access-date=27 September 2018|archive-date=1 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801074050/http://www.danmarkskonger.dk/king54b.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Jay Haddow]], professional footballer for [[Blackburn Rovers F.C.|Blackburn Rovers]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=FC |first=Blackburn Rovers |title=Jay pens pro deal! |url=https://www.rovers.co.uk/news/2022/july/14/jay-pens-pro-deal-/ |access-date=2022-09-20 |website=Blackburn Rovers FC}}</ref>
* [[Jay Haddow]] — professional footballer for [[Blackburn Rovers F.C.|Kitchee SC]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-07-04 |title=Ex-Blackburn Rovers defender ready to help Kitchee return to top of Hong Kong pile |url=https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3269107/ex-blackburn-rovers-defender-ready-help-kitchee-return-top-hong-kong-pile |access-date=2024-11-17 |website=South China Morning Post |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Mark Chapman (cricketer)|Mark Chapman]], New Zealand and Hong Kong cricketer
* [[Mark Chapman (cricketer)|Mark Chapman]] — New Zealand and Hong Kong cricketer
* [[Richard Juan]], actor, TV host and entrepreneur<ref>{{cite web|title=Who To Follow|url=https://sports.abs-cbn.com/sportslifestyle/news/2016/02/05/who-follow-upfront-uaap-host-richard-juan-8553|website=ABS-CBN Sports}}</ref>
* [[Richard Juan]] — actor, TV host and entrepreneur<ref>{{cite web|title=Who To Follow|url=https://sports.abs-cbn.com/sportslifestyle/news/2016/02/05/who-follow-upfront-uaap-host-richard-juan-8553|website=ABS-CBN Sports}}</ref>
* [[Christine Loh]], former [[Hong Kong]] Legislative Councillor, founder and CEO of [[Civic Exchange]] and founder of [[Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor]].
* [[Christine Loh]] — former [[Hong Kong]] Legislative Councillor, founder and CEO of [[Civic Exchange]] and founder of [[Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor]]
* [[Harry Hill]], comedian, author and TV presenter, attended for two years from age 14<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tes.com/news/harry-hill-mr-gillinghams-words-always-stayed-me |title=Harry Hill: 'Mr Gillingham's words always stayed with me' |date=21 June 2019 |last1=Bloom |first1=Adi}}</ref>
* [[Harry Hill]] — comedian, author and TV presenter, attended for two years from age 14<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tes.com/news/harry-hill-mr-gillinghams-words-always-stayed-me |title=Harry Hill: 'Mr Gillingham's words always stayed with me' |date=21 June 2019 |last1=Bloom |first1=Adi}}</ref>
* [[Annemarie Munk]], HK Olympic swimmer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemarie-munk-86b95951 |title=Annemarie Munk |website=Linkedin }}</ref>
* [[Annemarie Munk]] — HK Olympic swimmer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemarie-munk-86b95951 |title=Annemarie Munk |website=Linkedin }}</ref>
* [[Alice Patten]], actress and daughter of [[Chris Patten]], the former [[Hong Kong governor]]<ref>{{cite news |title=Laura's straw hat puts Patten in the shade |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/lauras-straw-hat-puts-patten-in-the-shade-1535617.html |access-date=23 November 2018 |work=The Independent|date=26 July 1992}}</ref>
* [[Alice Patten]], actress and daughter of [[Chris Patten]] (the last [[Hong Kong governor]]), best known for the 2006 Indian film ''[[Rang De Basanti]]''<ref>{{cite news |date=26 July 1992 |title=Laura's straw hat puts Patten in the shade |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/lauras-straw-hat-puts-patten-in-the-shade-1535617.html |access-date=23 November 2018 |work=The Independent}}</ref>
* [[Fiona Sit]] (Singer and actress)
* [[Fiona Sit]] — singer and actress
⚫
* [[Mia Kang]] — fashion model, Muay Thai fighter and television host
* Dominic Lau (Radio DJ)
⚫
*[[Hannah Wilson]] — HK Olympic swimmer.
⚫
* [[Mia Kang]] (fashion model, Muay Thai fighter and television host)
⚫
* [[Melanie Wilson (rower)|Melanie Wilson]] — GB Olympic rower, silver medal at 2016 Olympics<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.britishrowing.org/athlete/melanie-wilson/|title=Melanie Wilson|website=British Rowing}}</ref>
⚫
*[[Hannah Wilson]], HK Olympic swimmer.
⚫
* [[Neelam Kothari]] — Indian actress
⚫
* [[Melanie Wilson (rower)|Melanie Wilson]], GB Olympic rower, silver medal at 2016 Olympics<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.britishrowing.org/athlete/melanie-wilson/|title=Melanie Wilson|website=British Rowing}}</ref>
⚫
* [[Nina Wadia]] — British-Indian actress and comedian; awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2021 New Year Honours for services to entertainment and charity
⚫
* [[Neelam Kothari]], Indian actress
* [[Max Denmark]] - HK National Rugby Team
⚫
* [[Nina Wadia]], British actress and comedian. Awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2021 New Year Honours for services to entertainment and charity.
* [[Vivien Tan]], former model, 1-time actress in British-Australian TV series [[The Other Side of Paradise]], former [[Channel V|Channel [V] ]] VJ, and present TV host, chef and entrepreneur
* Brian Wong, Rhodes Scholar, political philosopher and writer


===Staff===
===Staff===
*[[Jonty Driver]] (principal, 1978–83), who wrote a book about his experiences at the school<ref>{{cite book|title=Some Schools|last= Driver|first=C. J. |author-link=Jonty Driver|date=30 November 2016|publisher= John Catt Educational|isbn= 9781909717978|url=https://www.bookdepository.com/Some-Schools-C-J-Driver/9781909717978|access-date=25 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jontydriver.co.uk/|website=Jonty Driver|title=Home|access-date=25 November 2019}}</ref>
*[[Jonty Driver]] (principal, 1978–83) — wrote a book about his experiences at the school<ref>{{cite book|title=Some Schools|last= Driver|first=C. J. |author-link=Jonty Driver|date=30 November 2016|publisher= John Catt Educational|isbn= 9781909717978|url=https://www.bookdepository.com/Some-Schools-C-J-Driver/9781909717978|access-date=25 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jontydriver.co.uk/|website=Jonty Driver|title=Home|access-date=25 November 2019}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
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* {{official website|http://www.island.edu.hk}}
* {{official website|http://www.island.edu.hk}}


{{English Schools Foundation}}
{{Esfschool}}
{{International schools in Hong Kong}}


[[Category:Island School| ]]
[[Category:Island School| ]]

Latest revision as of 05:43, 17 December 2024

Island School (港島中學)
Island School Logo
Location
Map
20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong
Information
TypePrivate, secondary, co-educational, comprehensive, international
MottoCelebrates Individuality, Pursues Excellence, Embraces Responsibility
Established1967; 57 years ago (1967)
PrincipalStephen Loggie
Faculty20
EnrollmentOver 1,300
HousesDa Vinci, Einstein, Fleming, Nansen, Rutherford, Wilberforce
Student Union/AssociationThe Island School Student Council is the voice of the students. It guarantees that all students have a platform for communicating their viewpoints and thoughts with respect to student life and are responsible for representing the student body and improving the student experience at Island School. It also offers students the ability to take part in improving Island School as a whole.
Colour(s)    Red, white and blue
TeamsIsland School Typhoons
YearbookThe Islander
YearsYear 7–13
AlumniOld Islanders
Websitehttp://www.island.edu.hk/
Island School
Traditional Chinese港島中學
Simplified Chinese港岛中学
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu Pinyingǎng dǎo zhōng xué
Yue: Cantonese
Jyutpinggong2 dou2 zung1 hok6

Island School (Chinese: 港島中學) is a co-educational international school located on the Mid-levels, Hong Kong. Established in 1967, it is a founding member of the English Schools Foundation. The school has been accredited by international organisations such as the Council of International Schools[1] and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.[2] The school currently houses over 1,200 students across 33 nationalities.[3][4]

The school has relocated itself twice since its establishment. Using the site of a former British military hospital from 1967 to 1972, the school permanently settled in 20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels from 1972 to 2017. However, due to redevelopment work, the school temporarily moved to two campuses in Sha Tin District in December 2017. The school has since returned to 20 Borrett Road as of August 2022 after 4 years of redevelopment work.[5]

Island School is a registered IB World School and offers the IB diploma program along with an alternative BTEC program in the senior years. Island School also offers the IGCSE in Years 10-11.

History

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The school opened in 1967 to meet increasing demand for schooling for the children of expatriates living in Hong Kong. As there were no secondary schools for English speaking children on Hong Kong Island, the Hong Kong government established the English Schools Foundation (ESF) in 1965 to provide additional schools for expatriate British children. Island School was the first ESF secondary school, adopting the Chinese name of 英童中學, literally translated as "Secondary school for British children". It was located in a former British military hospital from 1967-72 until it permanently settled in 20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels from 1972-2017.

The first principal of Island School was the Reverend Geoffrey Speak who was appointed from St Paul's College in 1967. Rev. Speak, a graduate of Selwyn College, Cambridge, combined the principalship with managing the ESF between 1967 and 1971, during a rather inauspicious time. In 1967 the Cultural Revolution was in its throes with bombs detonated in Central, water was rationed to four hours every fourth day and with Prime Minister Wilson's devaluation the prospect of working in Hong Kong became less financially appealing. The Rev. Speak will be remembered at Island School for his introduction of the "House System" as the basis of pastoral care and for teaching, a system which is still in place today, and as a pioneer of extracurricular activities.

In 1971 C. Ronald Rivers-Moore was appointed to succeed Rev. Speak as principal. Rivers-Moore, a Cambridge graduate, continued Rev. Speak's vision both in academic policy and through the continuation of the extracurricular program. The introduction of the Nepal Trek, the School Camp, a school zoo and the Student Union are examples of his commitment to that vision. Chris Forse, former Deputy Head and Island School Historian, referred to Rivers-Moore as a man who combined his "integrity with liberal benevolence in roughly equal proportions".

Succeeding Rivers-Moore in 1978 was Charles Jonathan Driver (commonly known as "Jonty Driver"), a graduate of Trinity College, Oxford. Driver had been the President of the National Union of Students in South Africa and had been detained by Police in this role for his opposition to apartheid. Driver extended the Island School curriculum to include Drama, Photography and Computing and a pastoral curriculum. A believer in community education, Driver founded the Island School Evening Institute which provided adult education to parents and friends of the Island School community. It was also during Driver's tenure that Island School's lasting student periodical, "The Islet", was established, succeeding the original student newspaper "The Echo". Jonty left Island School in 1983 to become Headmaster at Berkhamsted School, later moving to the prestigious Wellington College in Berkshire. He later published a book about his experiences, at Island School and others, under the title "Some Schools".

Dr. Colin Niven, a graduate of Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge and Brasenose College, Oxford, was principal of Island School between 1983–1988. During his tenure, Dr. Niven raised the prestige of the school internationally, tripling Oxbridge entries while gaining membership of the elite Headmasters Conference. There was a major investment in a new library and the school uniform was replaced. After leaving Island School Dr. Niven became a fellow at Westminster College, Oxford and later the principal at the prestigious Alleyn's School in London.

Mr. David James became the school's first internally appointed principal in 1988. Mr. James was an innovator, introducing the new British National Curriculum, vocational education and the decision to begin the International Baccalaureate at 16–18. He enhanced the responsibilities of the Sixth Form enabling "students to become surrogate teachers and leaders of the school". He broadened the profile of Island School's out-reach efforts in both Hong Kong and abroad through the encouragement of student participation in community service programs among them the Summerbridge and School After School program through which Island School students taught English and life skills to less privileged children. In 1990 Island School became the first ESF school to introduce an Interim Week during which the regular timetable was abandoned for a range of alternative challenges in Hong Kong and overseas.

Mr James retired in 2005 and was succeeded by a deputy principal Mrs. Michelle Hughes, a graduate of Open University. Mrs Hughes's tenure began in difficult circumstances with a pay dispute between the teachers and the ESF which resulted in some curtailing of the extracurricular program and support for parent-run activities like the school fair. Her tenure has been characterised by its attention to meeting the modern imperatives of quality assurance and in the increasing role of "student voice" at Island School. She also helped the School transition to the International Baccalaureate in Y12 and Y13.

Mrs. Hughes left the position in June 2009, and was replaced by Mr Christopher Binge, who had been the secondary principal at the La Châtaigneraie campus of the International School of Geneva. Mr Chris Binge was born and grew up in England, educated at Cambridge University (MA in Mathematics) and the Institute of Education, London (PGCE Maths Education). During his tenure, Binge played a large role in forwarding the Island School Redevelopment Project to redevelop the now quickly deteriorating Borrett Road campus. Binge was also an important driver in the School transitioning to the Middle Years Programme and the Island Futures Programme in the Middle School. In 2016, Binge left to become the head of Markham College.[6]

Mr. Stephen Loggie is the current principal of Island School. He had previously been a foundation principal at two Queensland state schools, one of which being the Queensland Academy of Science Maths and Technology. During his time, the school decamped to two separate sites in the New Territories in order for the Borrett Road site to be redeveloped. The new Island School campus on Borrett Road opened in August 2022. Resigning by sending a school-wide email, he stated that, "I am writing to let you know that after 7 years, this academic year will be my last at Island School", and that "ESF is well advanced in making arrangements for recruiting my replacement and I will share details of the process soon". Mr. Loggie's tenure is set to end in December 2024.

Campus

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The previous campus of Island School in 2016

Island School's former campus consisted of seven blocks ranging from five to seven floors high, with blocks 1 to 6 arranged in a rectangular fashion. Students could travel to adjacent blocks by linked walkways or footbridges. As the campus was situated on mountainous terrain, blocks located close to the mountain were placed at a higher altitude than their counterparts, and as such the floors between different blocks were often not correlated. In 2018, the former campus was demolished and all learning was diverted to the two decant campuses located in the Sha Tin area.[3][4]

The two decant campuses, Sha Tin Wai and Tai Wai, housed two different sets of levels. Sha Tin Wai housed Years 7, 8, 12 and 13, while Tai Wai housed Years 9, 10 and 11.[7]

In August 2022, Island School returned to Borrett Road with a new campus. This newly built campus includes a performing arts centre, an indoor swimming pool, a sports hall, basketball courts, sky gardens, a black box theatre, and creative studios. As well as a range of other facilities there will be designated parking for school buses under the school buildings to facilitate pick-up and drop-off, thus relieving traffic pressure from Borrett Road itself.[8]

Academics

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A class at Island School, circa 1970

Middle Phase: Years 7–10

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In Years 7 and 8 students take part in the ‘Island Learning’ program, which has been accredited by the IB organisation as part of their MYP programme.

As students move on to Years 9, 10 & 11, Island Futures is divided into four different areas: entrance, elements, explorations and escape.[9]

Senior Phase: Years 11–13

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After completing their IGCSEs/GCSEs in Years 11, students will choose whether to study the IBCP (careers programme) or the IBDP (diploma programme) in their senior years.

Island School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) career programme. The IBCP offers students who want to focus their education on preparing for their career a specialist pathway. Students on the IBCP choose a mixture of IB diploma courses and BTEC subjects.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma programme requires students to choose six subjects for the full IB diploma. This must include at least one from each group 1–5. Students then opt to take up a Group 6 Subject or choose an additional elective subject from groups 1–5. Students must choose 3 subjects at higher level and 3 at standard level. All IB diploma students have to complete the IB Ccre. This includes the extended essay, theory of knowledge, and CAS (creativity, activity, and service).[10]

Island School offers a great variety of IB subjects:

Group 1 - Studies in Language and Literature (A): English Literature (HL/SL), English/ Chinese Language & Literature (HL/SL), Self Taught Language (SL)

Group 2 - Language Acquisition: Chinese B (HL/SL), French B (HL/SL), French Ab initio (SL), Spanish B (HL/SL), Spanish Ab initio (SL), Japanese B (HL/SL), Japanese Ab initio (SL)

Group 3 - Individuals and Societies: Business & Management, Economics, Geography, History, Philosophy, Global Politics, Psychology (all offered at HL or SL)

Group 4 - Sciences: Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Design & Technology, Sports, Exercise and Health Science offered at HL or SL, Food Science at SL

Group 5 - Maths: Mathematics applications and interpretations and Mathematical analyses and approaches both at HL and SL

Group 6 - Arts: Theatre, Visual Arts and Music at SL and HL

Interdiciplinary Subjects: English Literature & Performance (1 & 6), Environmental Systems (3 & 4) at SL only[11]

Examinations

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In Island School, students take a selection of IGCSE, GCSE, IBDP or IBCP examinations.

Notable alumni and staff

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Alumni

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Staff

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ "School Information Page". Archived from the original on 14 April 2013. Retrieved 16 July 2012.
  2. ^ "WASC Accrediting Commission for Schools". Retrieved 16 July 2012.
  3. ^ a b "ESF Island School Tai Wai Campus". Retrieved 7 September 2018.
  4. ^ a b "ESF Island School Sha Tin Wai Campus". Retrieved 7 September 2018.
  5. ^ "About Our Redevelopment Project". Island School - ESF. Retrieved 5 February 2022.
  6. ^ "Who is Chris?". 27 August 2015.
  7. ^ "Three-hour commute: ESF school's plan to temporarily shift campus to New Territories sparks fears of student exodus". Retrieved 7 September 2018.
  8. ^ "Redevelopment". Island School - ESF. Retrieved 5 February 2022.
  9. ^ "Year 9-11 Structure". Island School - ESF. Retrieved 5 February 2022.
  10. ^ "About Years 12-13". Island School - ESF. Retrieved 5 February 2022.
  11. ^ "About Years 12-13". Island School - ESF. Retrieved 17 March 2024.
  12. ^ "Prince Joachim". danmarkskonger.dk. Archived from the original on 1 August 2017. Retrieved 27 September 2018.
  13. ^ "Ex-Blackburn Rovers defender ready to help Kitchee return to top of Hong Kong pile". South China Morning Post. 4 July 2024. Retrieved 17 November 2024.
  14. ^ "Who To Follow". ABS-CBN Sports.
  15. ^ Bloom, Adi (21 June 2019). "Harry Hill: 'Mr Gillingham's words always stayed with me'".
  16. ^ "Annemarie Munk". Linkedin.
  17. ^ "Laura's straw hat puts Patten in the shade". The Independent. 26 July 1992. Retrieved 23 November 2018.
  18. ^ "Melanie Wilson". British Rowing.
  19. ^ Driver, C. J. (30 November 2016). Some Schools. John Catt Educational. ISBN 9781909717978. Retrieved 25 November 2019.
  20. ^ "Home". Jonty Driver. Retrieved 25 November 2019.
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