Ages 
A well-balanced school whose foundations are stronger than ever thanks to the head's steady hand on the tiller of change, development, and inclusivity. A central location, strong Chinese program and compact yet extensive facilities propel this school forward through the marching annals of time.
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Overview
- Student numbers
- 2,150
- Curricula
- International
- Other curriculum
- SEN provision
- SEN considered case by case
- Pre school provision (up to 4)
- Yes
- Religion
- Non-denominational
- Fees
- HK$ 138,600 – HK$ 254,300
Head of school
Head of school
Dr Tim Kaiser
Since 2023, Dr Tim Kaiser BA MA EdD. Stepping into the role after a one-year handover period, Dr Kaiser brings 26 years’ experience (teaching and management) at the school with him and is considered part of the furniture - in a good way. He is proud
Entrance
October and January deadlines for admissions. Priority for Canadian passport holders and siblings. Play-based interviews for early years, progressing to group and individual activities, written assessments, and interviews for grade 1 and above. MAP
Exit
Early exit tends to be to the US or UK for boarding schools. Families relocating ‘home’ to Canada report that students fit easily into the public school system.
Vast majority head to university with members of the class of 2025 receiving more
Latest results
In 2025, the average IB score was 38, with three students achieving a perfect score of 45 (the 12th consecutive year that a CDNIS student has achieved a perfect score), seven students scored 44 and 10 scored 43. Forty-four per cent of the cohort (48
Teaching & learning
Starting with a Reggio Emilia-inspired childhood centre, the school spans pre-kindergarten (EY1) through to grade 12 with an IB programme running throughout. The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) also runs from grade 9-12. This is the only
- Curricula & qualifications
- International - International Baccalaureate (Diploma)
- International - International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP)
- International - International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP)
- Other curriculum - Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Bilingual programmes
- Chinese/English
Learning support & SEN
Learning support available from early years to grade 12. Parents say that support in upper school is offered across subjects, with some children dropping their second language until they are back on track. Not a well-advertised provision, teachers
Language support
No formal ESL programme, however, if a student is struggling teachers will provide limited help within the classroom.
Arts & extracurricular
The arts programme is ‘extensive’ with student artworks visible throughout the campus. Visiting artists, musicians, and performers are regulars on site (eg the standout Bill Helin, totem pole carver). During our visit we were awed by the recently
Sport
The 25m pool is located on the first floor. Natural light is somewhat compromised as the floor-to-ceiling windows are in the shadow of the next-door school but that doesn’t detract that it caters for all ages and abilities. The enclosed viewing
Ethos & heritage
Established in 1991 on the recommendation of the Hong Kong government (to increase the number of schools offering a North American curriculum). Located on the south side of Hong Kong Island, on a hill near Wong Chuk Hang with far-reaching views over
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
‘Friendly’ is the overriding word here with an ethos of kindness. Pastoral care is particularly strong in the lower school (homeroom teachers are quick to respond to any issues raised) with counsellors on hand for social and emotional needs. More
Classroom & community
Forty per cent Canadian students, give or take (as many hold multiple passports). Long-term parents note a shift in demographics, neither positive nor negative, merely an observation that there are now only a handful of western students within each
- School year
- August – June with three terms
- School hours
- 7:30am – 3:35pm
- Student nationalities - total
- 41
- Uniform requirements
- Yes
Money matters
Tuition fees in line with other all-through international schools. Debentures still in operation. An annual capital levy opens the school up to those who would not otherwise have the financial means to secure a place.
- Annual fee range
- HK$ 138,600 – HK$ 254,300
- Fee information
- Application, assessment and entrance fees, reservation deposit, capital levy
The last word
A well-balanced school whose foundations are stronger than ever thanks to the head's steady hand on the tiller of change, development, and inclusivity. A central location, strong Chinese program and compact yet extensive facilities propel this school
Accreditations, inspections & memberships
- Accreditations/Inspections
- Authorised by International Baccalaureate Organization (not to be confused as an inspection or accreditation agency)
Ontario Ministry of Education
Council of International Schools (CIS)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
