Hong Kong's ESF Rolls Out 'Through-Train' Schooling from K1 to Year 13

Hong Kong’s biggest international school group, the English Schools Foundation (ESF), has announced a “through-train” arrangement linking all its kindergartens directly to its primary schools from September 2027. This guarantees pupils a place from K1 through to secondary school graduation (Year 13). The ESF introduced a similar model in 2019 for primary to secondary schools. Chief Executive Belinda Greer hailed it as a “significant moment” benefiting students and families by providing educational continuity. Families applying for K1 places in September 2027 will be offered a guaranteed spot in a linked primary school. The move is expected to increase applications to ESF kindergartens due to the guaranteed placement incentive.