Outstanding Education

Belief & Rationale

We value the diverse linguistic backgrounds and experiences of all students at Peak School. We aim for all students to become the best they can be in Chinese language learning.

Chinese programmes ESF-wide, and therefore at Peak School, are designed for students of varied language backgrounds and abilities to learn the Chinese language. All Chinese teachers at Peak School are committed to inclusivity and diversity in a dynamic learning environment. We use fluid and diverse groupings, to authentically support students' individual language needs in class. 

Learning Programmes

Three Chinese language programs are offered as part of the ESF-wide Chinese Curriculum to ensure that all students are provided with the environment and the necessary language support to enable them to participate fully in the PYP programme.

Expansion 1: CAL (Chinese as Additional Language)

CAL programme is prepared for those who add Chinese as a new language to their existing language profile. CAL learners usually have limited exposure to Chinese at home to support the language development. As a group, CAL learners are able to use basic vocabulary and grammatical structure in familiar situations, and engage in learning activities involving receptive and expressive skills as appropriate to their age level. 

Expansion 2: CSL (Chinese as Secondary Language)

CSL programme is designed for learners who have varied exposure in Chinese language outside school, starting points and aptitude. CSL learners use Chinese widely both in and out of school in a variety of communicative situations. Appropriate to their age level, they are in command of a wider range of vocabulary and language structures, and are able to use them in familiar and unfamiliar contexts. CSL learners have a good knowledge of Chinese language style and function presented in non-literary and literary works.

Expansion 3: CNN (Chinese as Near Native / Native Language)

CNN programme is prepared for students who learn Chinese at native or near-native level. CNN learners usually speak Chinese at home and they are familiar with a wide range of forms of language discourse in varied situations. They have a balanced development of oral and written language skills, both receptive and expressive, with regard to functional and aesthetic value of literary and non-literary works. They can use Chinese to engage in critical and creative tasks with confidence. 

At Peak School, our Expressive Arts program brings together music, drama, and dance to create dynamic learning experiences that inspire creativity and build confidence. Through our comprehensive arts curriculum, students discover their artistic voices while developing essential skills in communication, collaboration, and cultural understanding.The program integrates with Units of Inquiry, allowing students to make connections between their learning in expressive arts and the wider curriculum.

Our vibrant performance calendar showcases student talent throughout the year. A highlight is our annual Nativity performance at the historic St John's Cathedral in Central Hong Kong, a cherished tradition that brings our school community together. "Peak School Has Talent" provides another exciting platform where students share their diverse artistic abilities, from musical performances, dance and gymnastics, to dramatic presentations. These events, along with our whole-school productions, give every student the opportunity to shine on stage. 

Music plays a central role in our expressive arts program, with several ensembles that cater to different age groups and abilities. Our Junior Choir, Senior Choir, and Orchestra meet regularly to practise and perform throughout the year. A particular point of pride is our participation in the ESF Choral Concert, where every two years our students join voices with peers from across the foundation to perform at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium. These experiences help our students develop not only their musical abilities but also their sense of belonging to the wider ESF community. Another event that fosters this sense of belonging is the ESF Festival of Dance, which takes place every year. We have been proud to send a groups to perform at this event.

Throughout the year, our students participate in various cultural celebrations and class performances. Events like the Mid-Autumn Festival showcase how we integrate expressive arts with cultural understanding. Our specialist teachers work closely with classroom teachers to ensure that expressive arts education enhances and deepens the learning happening across all subject areas. This integrated approach helps students make meaningful connections between their artistic expression and their understanding of the world.

The library at Peak School serves as a vibrant learning hub that nurtures a love for reading and inquiry. It provides students with access to a diverse collection of books and resources that support their interests, their curiosities and their research needs. The students have a weekly library lesson along with access to the library before school, break time and lunch time every day.  Families are welcome and encouraged to borrow from the library too.

Through an engaging and diverse catalogue, visiting authors, mystery readers and book clubs students develop critical thinking and literacy skills. The library fosters a sense of community by inspiring students to discover new ideas and broaden their horizons, making the library an essential part of their Peak School journey.

Physical Education (PE) at Peak School emphasises the holistic development of students through movement and physical activity. Our PE programme fosters physical skills, collaboration, teamwork, cooperation, and resilience. By engaging through various sports and games students learn to appreciate the importance of a healthy lifestyle, develop motor skills, and build social connections. The PYP curriculum allows PE to integrate with Units of Inquiry, promoting an understanding of the body's capabilities and encouraging lifelong fitness habits. From Year 1- 6 students are motivated to explore their physical potential and develop a positive attitude toward health and well-being.

At Peak School, we recognise the importance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in enhancing the learning experience of our students. However, we believe in striking a balance between the use of technology and the need for children to develop strong interpersonal communication skills. Our approach to ICT integration is guided by the principle that technology should be used only when it truly enhances the learning process rather than being a substitute for traditional teaching methods.

We understand that preparing our children for the future involves equipping them with the necessary technological skills. Nevertheless, we also prioritise the development of their ability to communicate and interact with one another effectively. To achieve this balance, Peak School provides devices for the children to use during their learning journey, eliminating the need for parents to purchase individual iPads or computers for their children. Furthermore, we strongly emphasise digital citizenship and literacy, ensuring that our students not only know how to use technology but also understand the responsible and ethical ways to engage with it. By fostering a balanced approach to ICT, Peak School aims to create a learning environment that prepares our students for future technological demands while nurturing their interpersonal skills and overall well-being.

At Peak School, we believe that nurturing the environment is essential for a sustainable future. Our commitment to helping our students become environmental caretakers are reflected in our daily practice.  Together, we are cultivating a culture of care for our planet:

• Sustainability concepts are embedded in our Programme of Inquiry from Years 1-6
• Students engage in composting, turning food waste into nutrient-rich soil for our garden
• Recycling is a cornerstone of our daily practices, with designated stations throughout the school to encourage responsible waste management 
• Our gardening projects not only beautify the campus but also teach students about biodiversity and the importance of plants in our ecosystem
• Additionally, we have student clubs that empower children to take the lead in environmental projects, fostering a sense of responsibility and community