Parent's Review of Carmel School in Hong Kong, Hong Kong

What is the name of your child's school? (Please report on one school per survey.)

Carmel School

In what town or city is this school located?

Hong Kong

How would you describe this school? (i.e. American, British, International, Local, etc.)

American with a Judaic Studies program

What grade levels are represented at this school?

nursery though grade 8

How do most children get to school everyday? (bus, train, walk, etc.)

bus/car

How would you describe the facilities at this school? What extra-curricular activities are available?

Pretty old brick colonial building on Borrett Road. Cramped with little outdoor space and poor facilities.

What has this school done to help your child transition from the curriculum in your home country into the curriculum in your new country? Are there programs to prepare your child for repatriation?

The standards are very low and the administration is cliquish and self-protecting. Very little is done with the idea of repatriation. The Israeli students fall behind, while the American/European students spend too much time on Judaic studies. No interest is taken in the host country and the experience of living in Hong Kong. Chinese is basically non-existent on the campus. This school has been disappointing and we can't wait to get back to school in the States.

How would you describe the social activities available for parents through this school? Are there parent-teacher organizations?

Many opportunities to be involved.

What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling their child in this school?

Beware. I cannot recommend this school unless you are an orthodox Jew who wants your children to be cut off from the vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong. The teachers are poorly compensated and the school prefers local hires instead of traditional recruiting. This school was the worst mistake I have made on my family's behalf and I am not alone in this sentiment. Of course this is my opinion, I encourage you to examine the school and make your own decision. Keep the inconsistent class sizes in mind as well as the teacher turnover.