More than 1,700 parents, students, and educators gathered at the International Schools Festival – Hong Kong Island 2026, held on September 19 at the Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel. The event featured 46 schools and education advisers who provided guidance on school admissions, curricula, university applications, and long-term education planning.
Through a series of five parent talks and ten school-led information sessions, presenters emphasized that education decisions should prioritize student well-being, curiosity, and adaptability rather than solely focusing on academic achievement or building a flawless résumé.
During the morning panel titled “Rethinking the Admissions Journey,” school leaders questioned the conventional approach to primary school admissions, which often emphasizes rigorous preparation for tests. Instead, they advocated for assessing qualities such as curiosity, confidence, emotional readiness, and communication skills. Brenda Cook, principal of English Schools Foundation’s Kennedy School, said that ESF does not seek a fixed type of applicant and welcomes all children who demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to engage with the curriculum. She noted that parent interviews aim to understand the child better, rather than to evaluate the parents.
Ross Dawson, primary principal at Victoria Shanghai Academy (VSA), advised families to focus on finding a school that fits their needs rather than the institution’s reputation. He highlighted factors like educational philosophy, language environment, homework expectations, and approach to bilingual learning as critical considerations. Dr. Cora Hui, head of school at Christian Alliance PC Lau Memorial International School, also urged parents to adopt a comprehensive view of readiness that includes character development, wellness, social connection, and parental involvement. Jane Thomas, head of primary at Australian International School Hong Kong, echoed the emphasis on student well-being as foundational to learning success.
The discussion extended to higher education and future career pathways in the panel “Navigating Higher Education in the AI Era: Future Degrees, Smarter Applications, Strategic Planning.” Panelists Dr. Spencer A Fowler of Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong, Michael Hirsch of ESF West Island School, Kevin Li of Crimson Education, and Helena Murchie of the French International School of Hong Kong highlighted adaptability, intellectual curiosity, effective communication, and a willingness to keep learning as essential skills in an era of rapid technological change.
Fowler underscored responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for personalized learning and engagement with real-world challenges, cautioning against using AI as a shortcut for assignments. Hirsch likened AI-generated application assistance to long-standing concerns over undue external help, suggesting AI should serve as a research partner to deepen students’ understanding of their academic and personal motivations. Li described AI as a democratizing force for knowledge but stressed the importance of maintaining strong academic records, teacher relationships, and authentic extracurricular involvement. Murchie emphasized balancing technology use with integrity and human skill development, noting that employers and universities value problem-solving, creativity, and the ability to articulate one’s work.
Speakers across both panels advocated for a less anxious and more balanced approach to education, encouraging families to engage with the process in a positive and exploratory manner. The festival underscored that despite the rising role of technology in education, enduring human qualities like curiosity, resilience, empathy, and confidence remain paramount.
The International Schools Festival – Hong Kong Island 2026 was supported by presenting sponsor AIA.