Curriculum Introduction
Han Academy is a non-profit-making full-time Primary and Secondary school founded by Happy Life Education Foundation Limited, a charitable institution registered in Hong Kong.
As a bilingual Chinese-English school, we bring together the best elements from two rich education traditions: the Chinese and the global and promote mutual understanding between cultures and knowledge of the world, and, at the same time, strengthen students' value of their own cultural uniqueness and traditions.
We aspire to create an adaptive, inspirational and forward-looking learning community, so as to inspire creativity and critical thinking and nurture responsible global citizens and leaders of the future.
The overall curricular mapping at Han Academy is an organic integration of the curricula, which culminate in the three of the most prestigious international programmes in the world - the Cambridge International Curriculum, Pearson Edexcel International Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Han Academy also offers school-based Han Academy curricula for almost all subject groups, namely Chinese, English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Art & PE. The students can choose between two different pathways, International AS/A Level or IB Diploma Programmes when they finish their study of IGCSE.
Han Academy Primary Curriculum (Y1–Y6)
Based on China's National Curriculum and CAIE Curriculum, drawing on the essence of the IB Curriculum, and taking into account of Han students' needs, Han Academy develops an integrated primary curriculum for 5-10 year-old students, which is interesting, relevant, challenging, and exceptional. We build a Putonghua/English bilingual immersion environment, where learning is student-centered, interests-oriented, and enquiry-based. In the learning process, we cultivate students' curiosity and motivate students' interests and initiatives. We lay a solid foundation for students in their subject areas and take responsible measures to develop students’ understanding of important concepts and help them master fundamental interdisciplinary skills.
Primary Curriculum
Subjects
Curriculum Content
Medium of Instruction
Chinese
National Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
Putonghua
English
Cambridge Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
English
Mathematics
Cambridge Curriculum
Bilingual (Putonghua + English)
Science
Cambridge Curriculum
English
UOI
School-based Curriculum
Putonghua/English
Computing
Cambridge Curriculum
Bilingual (Putonghua + English)
Music
Cambridge Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
Putonghua/English
Drama
School-based Curriculum
Putonghua
Art
Cambridge Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
Putonghua/English
PE
CAIE Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
Putonghua/English
Han Academy Lower Secondary Curriculum (Y7-Y9)
As a continuance of the Han Academy Primary Curriculum, TheHan Academy Lower Secondary Curriculum is a combination of School-based curricula and Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum. The Han Academy LowerSecondary Curriculum is suitable for pupils aged 11 to 14 years.
The school offers two different English learning pathways,Cambridge English Checkpoint and Cambridge English Global for Year 7-9 students based on their competency when they enter the secondary school, to ensure that each student can study in a challenging and appropriate environment. Students’ academic levels are evaluated every semester to see whether they should be transferred to the other pathway.
The Cambridge Lower Secondary Science syllabus is constructed in a spiral pattern and can help students develop skills and understanding in science for their first three years of secondary education. We incorporated the school-based STEM curriculum into our Scientific education as well.
For mathematics, we construct our school-based curriculum by combining the high calibre and depth in mathematics education inMainland China and the broadness and mathematical thinking training from bothCambridge International and Pearson International syllabi.
The Y7-9 School-based curricula for Chinese, Chinese History,Physical Education, Music, Art & Design, Drama, and Debate are speciallydesigned to fulfil effective and efficient teaching and learning and maintainthe outcome to a high standard.
Year 7 to 9 Major Curriculum Sources in Order of Relevance
Subject
Curriculum Content
Medium of Instruction
Chinese
National Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
Putonghua
English
Cambridge Lower Secondary (Checkpoint & Global)
English
Mathematics
School-based Curriculum with reference to CambridgeLower Secondary Mathematics and Pearson International Lower SecondaryMathematics
Bilingual
Science
Cambridge Lower Secondary Science
English
Chinese History
School-based Curriculum
Putonghua
Individuals and Societies
School-based Curriculum
English
Music
School-based Curriculum with reference to CambridgeLower Secondary Music
English
Media
School-based Curriculum
English
Drama
School-based Curriculum
English
Debate
School-based Curriculum
Putonghua
Art & Design
School-based Curriculum with reference to CambridgeLower Secondary Art and Design Syllabus
English
PE
Cambridge Curriculum + School-based Curriculum
English
Personal Development
School-based Curriculum (Career planning + Leadership+ Well-being)
English
Cambridge IGCSE (Y10-Y11)
Cambridge IGCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. It is recognised by leading universities and employers worldwide, and is an international passport to progression and success. Han Academy is proud to offer this exceptional course to our students.
The Cambridge IGCSE curriculum offers a variety of routes for learners with a wide range of abilities, including those whose first languages not English. Starting from a foundation of core subjects, Cambridge allows us to add breadth and cross-curricular perspectives through other subjects.Encouraging learners to engage with a variety of subjects, and make connections between them, is fundamental to our approach. For learners, Cambridge IGCSE helps improve performance by developing skills in creative thinking, enquiry and problem solving. It is the perfect springboard to advanced study.
Han Academy offers a wide variety of Cambridge IGCSE subjectsand can offer them in any combination. Cambridge IGCSE develops learnerknowledge, understanding and skills in:
- Subject content
- Applying knowledge and understanding to new or unfamiliar situations
- Intellectual enquiry
- Flexibility and responsiveness to change
- Working and communicating in English
- Influencing outcomes
- Cultural awareness
Year 10 to 11 Cambridge IGCSE Courses
Group
Syllabus name
Syllabus code
Group 1: Language
Chinese - First Language
0509
English - First Language
0500
English as a Second Language (Speaking endorsement)
0510
Group 2: Humanities
Economics
0455
Global Perspectives
0457
World Literature
0408
Group 3: Science
Biology
0610
Chemistry
0620
Physics
0625
Group 4: Mathematics
Mathematics
0580
Mathematics - Additional
0606
Group 5: Creative and Vocational
Global Perspectives
0457
Art & Design
0400
Music
0410
Business Studies
0450
Cambridge IGCSE is widely recognised by highereducation institutions and employers around the world as evidence of academicachievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge InternationalA Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs to meet their entry requirements.
PearsonEdexcel IGCSE (Y10-11)
Pearson Edexcel's International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) qualifications are designed to be on par with the UK's GCSE, featuring relevant international content and assessments that facilitate smooth progression for learners.
Delivered in over 80 countries globally and within independent schools in the UK, Pearson Edexcel's International GCSEs encompass 37 subjects, mirroring the standards of UK GCSEs grade for grade and holding recognition by universities worldwide. Geared towards students aged 14 to 16, these qualifications equip learners with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for advancement to A Levels, International A Levels, higher education, and the workforce.
While the traditional linear assessment structure, involving exams at the culmination of the course, suits many individuals, others benefit from a more gradual approach (modular). Hence, Pearson Edexcel now offers the option of a modular pathway for several IGCSEs. Modular International GCSEs segment the journey into units, each concluding with an exam when the student feels adequately prepared. Regardless of the chosen route, the examination duration remains consistent, teachers allocate the same instructional time, and everyone is positioned for success in International GCSE assessments. Notably, Pearson Edexcel stands out as the sole awarding body providing a modular framework for International GCSE and International AS/A Level qualifications.
Cambridge International A-Level
(Y12-Y13)
Cambridge International AS & A Level courses are typically for school-aged learners from 16 to 19 years who need advanced study to prepare for university and higher education in Hong Kong and beyond.Cambridge A levels build on the foundations of Cambridge IGCSE, although learners do not need to complete that stage before this one.
Cambridge International A Level is typically a two-year course, and Cambridge International AS Level schooling is typically one year in Hong Kong. Some subjects can be started as a Cambridge International ASLevel and extended to a Cambridge International A Level.
Cambridge International AS & A Level develops learners’ knowledge, understanding and skills in:
- In-depth subject content
- Independent thinking
- Applying knowledge and understanding to new or familiar situations
- Handling and evaluating different types of information source
- Thinking logically and presenting ordered and coherent arguments
- Making judgements, recommendations and decisions
- Presenting reasoned explanations, understanding implications and communicating them logically and clearly
- Working and communicating in English
Han Academy offers a wide range of the Cambridge A & AS level subjects and can offer them in almost any combination available through schools in Hong Kong (HK). This flexibility allows us to build an individualised curriculum, and learners can choose to specialise in a particular subject area or study a range of subjects.
Group
Syllabus name
Syllabus code
Group 1: Language
Chinese
9715
English Language
9093
Literature in English
9695
Group 2: Humanities
Economics
9708
Business
9609
Geography
9696
Psychology
9900
Group 3: Science
Biology
9700
Chemistry
9701
Physics
9702
Group 4: Mathematics
Mathematics
9709
Further Mathematics
9231
Group 5: Creative and Vocational
Art & Design
9479
Pearson Edexcel IAL (Y12-13)
Pearson Edexcel's International Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced Level (AS/A Level) qualifications are globally respected credentials that unlock pathways to esteemed universities worldwide. With a selection of 21 subjects, these qualifications embrace a modular framework while maintaining parity with GCE AS/A Levels, as validated by NARIC.
Pearson Edexcel's International AS/A Levels adopt a versatile and well-received modular methodology*, where assessments occur at the conclusion of each study unit or intermittently throughout the program, empowering students to choose when they are adequately prepared to sit for exams.
By dispersing exams across the duration of the course and providing multiple exam sessions in January, June, and October for the majority of subjects, revision is segmented into manageable units. This approach diminishes the burden of 'all-or-nothing' exam periods, allowing learners to concentrate their revision efforts on fewer exams at any given time.
IB Diploma Programme (Y12-Y13)
Han Academy is a school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (IBDP) .
IB World Schools throughout Hong Kong share a common philosophy - a commitment to improve the teaching and learning of a diverse, inclusive community of students. This is achieved by delivering challenging, high quality programmes of international education that share a powerful vision.
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is for students aged 16-19. The program aims to help students in Hong Kong develop an excellent breadth and depth of knowledge – these are students who flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically.
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Curriculum
The DP curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core. This comprises theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS) and the extended essay. Through the DP core, students reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete independent research and undertake a project that often involves community service.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) aims to develop inquisitive, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end, the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.
This prestigious program in HK fosters independent learners with a strong initiative. Our IB teachers pride themselves on nurturing cultural awareness, teaching genuine engagement with the ever-changing world we live in. IB programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with all their unique differences, have an experience just as valid as their own.
Assessment and Exams
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) school program assesses student work as direct evidence of achievement against the stated goals of the Diploma Programme (DP) courses in HK. To arrange admission into our IB programmes in Hong Kong, simply
follow this link.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
At Han Academy, we create space for student growth and development to ensure that they will become all-rounded talents after thirteen years of campus life. To this end, the school arranges Service Week for students to learn by reading, traveling, and experiencing the real world.
There are three stages in Han Academy’s Service Week: Y1-4, Y5-8, and Y9-12.
Y1-4 students experience nature and local communities in Hong Kong. They participate in a wide variety of cross-disciplinary activities to raise their awareness of protecting nature and serving their communities.
Y5-8 students return to Mainland China to understand their motherland and serve the society. Students sightsee in famous tourist destinations and historic sites, participate in farming activities, teach in underdeveloped areas, and visit disabled people. All these activities give students the opportunities to help their compatriots in need and contribute more to society by doing and experiencing.
Y9-12 students go overseas to see the world and contribute to society; students get to know local customs and practices and utilize their individual talents to help those local people in need.
Meanwhile, students develop their leadership and team skills. Apart from Service Week, Han Academy students have other community service opportunities such as volunteer teaching, visiting senior citizens, and cleaning the beach. We hope that students make community services part of their lives on top of solid academic foundations and individual development.
