I have my son studying at K1 at ESF, and we are recently offered a reception class at Singapore Int'l School.
It is a difficult decision as both schools are very different. Our son is very happy at ESF and we also love the reputation of the school (though always good or bad comment but to me it is a great and well established school organisation).
On the other hand, SIS focus on academic acheiverment through test and homework, and has strict discipline but the through-train system as well as the strong second language teaching in Mandarin are the advantage. What i concerned a bit is the quality of students at SIS that under a traditonal exam based system and strict discpline, would children just learn to be "obedient' rather than vocal to express their view, lack of self confidence and reluctant to stand for their viewpoint? Would the SIS parent correct me if I am wrong.
We are a typical HK family, and no particular preference in any countries for his tertiary education. We incline to choose SIS for the obvious reasons mentioned above but it is not easy to decide to give up a seat at ESF that has been our dream school and these days it has long waiting list (though there is no guarantee for the primary admission).
Is there anyone having similar situation as ours? Anyone previously studying at esf moved to SIS?
Bi-lingual teaching is the key consideration of our choice of school. If the mandrain at ESF is not sufficient, i would put my son in private tuition. Would that be as efficient as the classroom teaching in mandarin that SIS can provide?
Can anyone share the experience and provide their insight.