Quick summary of key school information
All the details about this school in their own words
Number of students |
1203 |
Number of nationalities represented in the school |
West Island School is a community of multilingual learners who have various nationalities and cultural backgrounds. We have more than 40 nationalities of students, 47 languages spoken, and over 47 per cent of the students are bilingual or multilingual. |
Most common nationality |
British |
Native English speaking teachers |
Yes. |
Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes. English for academic purposes (EAP) is offered to students requiring additional support to develop their academic English. |
Additional language classes offered by the school |
Chinese, French and Spanish.
Furthermore, we actively support students who wish to continue developing their mother tongue through self-study. Some of these provisions are made available with the assistance of the ESF Centre.
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Max. number of students per class |
It depends on the subject. |
Average number of students per class |
It depends on the subject. |
Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes. |
Use of technology in the classroom |
WIS is a 1:1 laptop school with digital literacy as part of the curriculum. |
Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
We are ready to revert to online learning as and when necessary. |
External examinations or assessments available |
At Pre 16 (Year 10 & 11), students will undertake the GCSE/(I)GCSE course. At Post 16 (Year 12 & 13), students have a choice of IBDP, IBCP, BTEC and the WIS Engineering Pathway. |
Results in these examinations |
In 2023, results are in line with 2019 - IB average score 36, five students achieved 44; six bilingual diplomas. Eleven students were awarded IB career-related programme (IBCP). Over 80 per cent of students who pursued the BTEC international diploma achieved the highest award, Distinction* Amongh them, three students completed BTEC Engineering Extended Diploma pathway, which is equivalent to 3 A-levels in the UK, all awarded a triple distinction. 100% Post-16 students passed their Post-16 courses, with 64% overall achieving 9/8/A*-A Similarly good results at IGCSE, 42 per cent achieved 8/9. |
Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes. |
Approximate hours of homework given |
Decided by Subject Teacher. |
Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
In 2023, approximately 95% of our students went on to attend a higher educational institution and approximately 5% took a gap year. |
Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes. |
Learning support offered |
The school steps away from pigeonholing students, focusing instead on a range of individual needs from moderate learning disabilities (Dyslexia, ADHD, Global Delay and Dyscalculia) to extensions for gifted students.
In cases where students have more complex needs that cannot be fully addressed within the school's framework, students can apply ESF Jockey Club Sarah Roe School. Admissions to this specialized school are guided by ESF admissions team to ensure that students receive the appropriate support and resources tailored to their specific needs. The school strive to provide comprehensive support and accommodations to ensure that every student can be the best they can be, thrive academically and reach their full potential. There is also a learning centre for approximately 25 students requiring more intensive support either individually or in smaller groups. |
The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
The school has a programme of approaches for students with strong ability through links to gifted education as well as a mentoring programme designed to develop students further who have a particular strength within subject domains or disciplines. Courses have also been developed in the school curriculum to extend these students further. Opportunities to work with other students of a similar ability are part of our programme for this group who are identified through a range of data. |
Student access to education psychologist |
Yes. |
Entry evaluation for students |
Yes. |
Brief description of entry evaluation required |
Students will meet with the relevant Vice Principal or a Faculty Head followed by a written assessment (English and Math). |
Waiting list |
Depends on the year group. |
Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We have a rolling application policy. |
Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes. |
School start time |
8.15am |
School finish time |
3.15pm |
Supervised care before/after school |
No |
School bus service available |
Yes |
School provided lunches |
Yes we have 3 food outlets available for students. |
Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
Uniform required |
Pre 16 students (Years 7-11) are required to wear a school uniform. Post 16 students (Years 12-13) do not wear a uniform. |
Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Over 100 extracurricular activities are offered termly, which include Model United Nations, Hackathon Club, Fitness Club, Cricket, Yearbook Club, Chess Club, Cooking, and many more. |
Sports activities included |
Swimming, football, netball, hockey, badminton, athletics, water polo, volleyball, tag rugby, basketball, cricket, rounders, dance and ultimate frisbee. |
Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes. Many of our students actively represent Hong Kong at national level (rugby, athletics and swimming). |
Facilities at the school |
Library, Black box theatres, Food and Technology classrooms, Science labs, Design and Technology classrooms, Visual arts classrooms, Music rooms, Film classrooms, Dance room, Gym, Auditorium |
Sports facilities at the school |
The school has two gymnasiums, outdoor courts for a range of sports and a 25 metre swimming pool . The proximity to Hong Kong University playing fields provides further sport facilities. |
Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
We are non-selective, accepting students of all capabilities.
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Teaching approach of the school |
We pride ourselves on the standards we set for teaching and learning, and our people make all the difference. Our teachers and school leaders are highly qualified and experienced in international education. |