English and Literature in English Department
The English and Literature in English Department is committed to fostering a deep appreciation for the English language and literature among students through a thoughtfully designed curriculum. Embracing modern challenges, we have integrated technology into our learning processes through e-Learning initiatives, allowing students to explore language innovatively.
We believe that learning is not confined to the classroom and we endeavour to extend students’ learning experiences through utilising the Life Wide Learning Grant and the Promotion of Reading Grant. Our participation in the Hong Kong Schools Speech Festival and other language-related competitions enhances students’ skills and confidence.
Our overseas English study tours, initiated in 2001, provide students with immersive experiences in language and culture, further igniting their passion for English. We have proudly taken students to the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, enriching their understanding and appreciation of the language in diverse cultural contexts.
The dedication of our professional teachers ensures that students graduate with a strong command of English, fully prepared for further education and future challenges. Our collective efforts continually inspire a love for reading and learning, making the English and Literature in English Department a vital part of our school’s mission.
Department / Committee members' List
Heads of Department
Miss Ng Sau Wai, Ivy (Senior Forms)
Miss Luk Ka Yan, Sally (Junior Forms)
Members
Miss Chiu Wan Mei, May
Miss Ho Hoa Yan, Esther
Miss Lam Ho Ting, Steffi
Miss Lee Wan Har, Wendy
Miss Leung Po Yi, Bonnie
Miss Leung Shuk Wai, Joyce
Miss Lin Luo Xi, Jane
Mr. Morrison, Robert Karl
Miss Sunanda, Vellaikkal
Miss Wong Cheuk Lam Charmaine
Miss Wong Tsz Yu, Renee
Learning, Teaching and Assessment
Our carefully designed curriculum integrates language arts in the Junior Forms, encouraging students to view English as a cultural foundation. In Forms 1 and 2, we adopt a modular approach that introduces poetry, drama, and film analysis, complemented by authentic assessments to maximise students’ potential.
Our successful implementation of the New Senior Secondary (NSS) Curriculum is reflected in our students’ strong performance in the HKDSE. Another remarkable aspect of our curriculum is the integration of School-Based Assessment (SBA) with the study of a set text through the medium of drama. To breathe life into the reading of classic literature, we invite a drama company to perform and conduct workshops, enabling students to engage with the text in a vibrant and interactive manner. The highlight of this experience is an in-class dramatic duologue competition, judged by the drama tutors, which offers students a genuine and immersive opportunity to express their creativity.
We also believe in enriching our students’ learning experiences beyond textbooks. We encourage our students to subscribe to the South China Morning Post and the two English magazines, English Channel for Senior Forms and English Corner for Junior Forms. Additionally, our online reading platform, EB*, offers a wealth of resources for enhancing students’ literacy and reading skills.
Curriculum and Assessment Guide for English Language and Literature in English can be found following the links below.
Gifted Programmes
The overall objective of the gifted programmes is to provide exceptional students with enriching and diverse learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness. By offering specialised workshops, author talks, and collaborative projects, these programmes aim to enhance students’ English skills through encouraging them to explore complex themes relevant to their lives and communities. We strive to cultivate their talents, inspire a lifelong passion for learning English, and prepare them to navigate and contribute positively to an ever-changing world.
1. SCOLAR English Alliance 2023/24 From Reading to Collaborative Writing with 21st Century Skills
Our Form 1 and 2 elite students attended an argumentative writing workshop conducted by the tutors from the Centre for Language Education and Multiliteracies Research team from the Faculty of Education of the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
2. Author's talk during the Hong Kong International Literary Festival
Our Form 3A students were honoured to attend a talk delivered by Miss Rachel Smith who shared her passion for writing and source of inspiration.
The International Elite Programme for 18 Forms 4 and 5 gifted students was a dynamic two-day event held on 22nd and 29th June, 2024. It aimed at enhancing self-discovery and global awareness. Mr. Till Kraemer, the main trainer from Intercultural Education, engaged the participants in ice-breaking activities, explored teamwork and leadership dynamics, and helped them identify their strengths and weaknesses while honing 21st-century skills such as analytical and critical thinking. The second day shifted the focus to global issues where participants were tasked with creating a fictional country. They were encouraged to actively engage in discussions about relevant issues that affect them. Students were also inspired by a global dialogue with international guests.
The City Reporting Workshop, held from 24th June to 15th July, 2024, was a resounding success in broadening students' exposure to journalism. Led by Miss Venus Yiu, a professional journalist and trainer from the South China Morning Post, twelve students participated in this 12-hour program designed to foster essential skills in creating city reports. Participants learned to develop research skills, conduct insightful interviews, and create visually appealing slides to enhance their presentations. They explored the importance of city reporting and culminated their experience by presenting city reports that showcased their unique perspectives and ideas, focusing on themes such as the career choices of Hong Kong's top scoring students, the impact of supporting local artists, the tutorial school culture in Hong Kong, and the “blame the victim” mentality, etc. The programme concluded with an insightful visit to the SCMP headquarters.
Activities inside and outside classrooms and school in 2024-2025
Yann Martel at HKBU’s International Writers’ Talk on 21st October, 2024
Miss Ivy Ng and Miss Joyce Leung led eight Forms 4 to 6 Literature students to the International Writers’ Talk at HKBU, featuring Yann Martel, the Booker Prize-winning author of Life of Pi. Mr. Martel shared his insights on writing, inspiring all attendees. Two of our Form 6 students, Renna Lo (Form 6A) and Audrey Lau (Form 6E), were fortunate enough to ask him questions, making the event even more memorable. Prior to the event, we even hosted a movie viewing session of Ang Lee’s Life of Pi during two lunchtimes, allowing students to experience the film in its entirety and further engage with the themes discussed.
Activities inside and outside classrooms and school in 2023-2024
NET Workshop for Form 1 students
In our recent NET workshop, students had the opportunity to learn about Moscow, enhancing their understanding of diverse cultures and histories. Miss Natalia Wilson, our Native English Teacher from Moscow, introduced famous tourist attractions, the city’s railway system, and popular pastimes of Russian people. Students were captivated by the videos presented and actively participated in an engaging Kahoot! game afterwards. This workshop was an excellent way to promote cultural awareness and encourage students to explore life in another country.
Workplace Sharing by Past Students for Form 5 students on 26th October, 2023
On October 26, 2023, our Form 5 students engaged in a workplace sharing session aligned with Module 2 of the curriculum, focusing on workplace and technology. Alumni Miss Stephanie Yau, a 2012 graduate and Business Development Manager at SSP Asia Pacific, and Miss Angel Woo, a 2017 graduate in Engineering from the University of Hong Kong, shared insights into retail leasing and engineering. They discussed their career choices, job-hunting experiences, and the impact of technology on their fields, emphasising resilience in overcoming challenges. Their inspiring stories provided valuable perspectives for our students as they explore their future career paths.
Disney’s Foundations for Career Success Programme for Form 5 students on 21st December, 2024
On 21st December, 2024, 30 Form 5 students participated in Disney’s Foundations for Career Success programme at Hong Kong Disneyland. This three-hour experiential learning opportunity provided valuable insights into Disney’s corporate culture and work environment through activities at various park locations. We visited the "Team Disney Building" to understand the recruitment process, heritage, traditions and work environment and experienced the “Jungle River Cruise” together to observe the cast member performance. We gained a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes operations of Hong Kong Disneyland and had a truly enjoyable day.
Talk on circular fashion by Redress for Form 5 students on 20th February, 2024
On 20th February, 2024, our Form 5 students participated in a stimulating talk by Redress, a Hong Kong-based, Asia-focused environmental NGO, aligned with the module – the Individual and Society of our Form 5 English Language curriculum. Led by Miss Rachel Lau, the session explored sustainable fashion and the environmental impact of the textile industry. Miss Lau emphasised the importance of individual choices in promoting sustainability and reducing waste in fashion. We extend our gratitude to Redress for their impactful session and for encouraging our students to think critically about their consumer habits.
Exploring Complex Women Characters workshop on 7th March, 2024
On 7th March, 2024, ten Form 5 Literature students attended the Exploring Complex Women Characters workshop, organised by the Hong Kong International Literary Festival. Accompanied by Miss Ivy Ng and Miss Charmaine Wong, the students engaged in discussions about the portrayal of complex female characters in literature. The panel featured speakers from different countries who shared their experiences in writing multidimensional women. Students asked thoughtful questions and later interacted with the writers during a book signing session. This enriching experience deepened students’ appreciation for literature.
Reading Between the Lines: A Conversation with Ana Merino on 20th March, 2024 for Form 5 students
We were thrilled to host “Reading Between the Lines: A Conversation with Ana Merino”, an author talk for our Form 5 students. Miss Ana Merino, a renowned Professor of Hispanic Studies and award-winning author, shared her insights on writing, literature, and the significance of creative expression in today’s digital age. She encouraged students to appreciate the enduring value of language arts.
Her passion for storytelling was evident in her engaging presentation. The event was a wonderful opportunity for students to gain valuable insights and inspiration from a versatile writer and scholar, fostering a deeper appreciation for literature.
Form 4 In-class Dramatic Duologue Competition in February to March, 2024
The Form 4 In-Class Dramatic Duologue Competition provided an exciting platform for students to showcase their talents after studying the SBA set text, The Woman in White. All Form 4 students participated in the competition, which included drama workshops led by Dove Tales, where they honed their expressive and acting skills.
In preparation for the competition, students also watched a professional drama performance by Dove Tales. The tutors from Dove Tales served as adjudicators, providing constructive feedback on each duologue performance. This event not only fostered creativity and collaboration but also deepened students’ appreciation for drama and reading.
SBA Preparation Workshop with the University of Hong Kong on 9th May, 2024 for Form 4 students
Our school hosted an SBA Preparation Workshop in collaboration with the Faculty of Education, the University of Hong Kong, designed to enhance the individual presentation skills of our Form 4 students. Led by HKU student-teachers, participants participated in ice-breaking activities, learned about School-based Assessment (SBA), and delivered 2-minute individual presentations. Each presentation was followed by constructive feedback, helping students refine their skills.
Summer Immersion Programmes
UK Study Tour: World Leaders Programme 2024
From 24th July to 6th August, 2024, 14 students and two teachers, Miss Charmaine Wong and Miss Steffi Lam, participated in the World Leaders Programme, staying at Tonbridge School and experiencing dormitory life. During the tour, they visited iconic landmarks such as the Globe Theatre, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the British Museum, while also engaging in activities like public speaking, drama workshops, and dance classes. A highlight was the creation of a hand-written magazine, celebrating the beauty of handwriting in the digital age. The tour concluded with a lively dance performance at the closing ceremony, making it an unforgettable blend of education and cultural exploration.
New Zealand Study Tour 2019
Our two-week study tour from 18th July to 2nd August, 2019 to New Zealand was a remarkable experience for the 20 students and the two accompanying teachers, Miss Ivy Ng and Miss Ida Chan. The students were attached to Marist College, a prestigious Catholic girls’ school. Students also explored the city’s rich culture and stunning landscapes, as well as having a scenic coach trip to Rotorua, famous for its geothermal wonders. Staying with host families allowed participants to experience New Zealand life firsthand, fostering meaningful connections and cultural exchange. Overall, the tour was a fantastic opportunity for personal growth, education, and unforgettable memories!
Competitions and Awards
2023-2024
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth English Public Speaking Contest 2024
Meerab Malik from Form 5A was awarded 2nd runner-up in the Senior Division of The Hong Kong Federation of Youth English Public Speaking Contest 2024. She competed against 1500 participants and went through district preliminary rounds, district semi-finals, district finals and grand finals, ultimately winning the third place with the topic “Having Enemies Is Good”. She advocated that the courage to be happy meant the courage to be disliked; that one should live life in their own terms and stand up for what is right despite the whole world turning against them, in order to be content, at peace, and to live with one’s conscience. It is a remarkable accomplishment to win in such a competitive contest. Congratulations to Meerab!
Harvard Book Prize
The following students were awarded the Harvard Book Prize in 2024 as they have demonstrated academic excellence, remarkable personal qualities, and significant contributions to the school. These students also share a deep love for literature, which has fueled their passion for learning and inspired their peers.
Champion: Athena Li, Form 5A (2023-2024)
1st Runner up: Renna Lo, Form 5A (2023-2024)
2nd Runner up: Grace Ip, Form 5E (2023-2024)
