補習-ESF for special needs push

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The English Schools Foundations will develop its service for children with special needs as part of a deal on the continuing subvention for current students.

ESF chairman Carlson Tong Ka-shing said this has been agreed with the government along with a facelift for Island School.

Currently, the only facility operated by the ESF for those with learning difficulties is the Jockey Club Sarah Roe School in Ho Man Tin, Kowloon.

The ESF also operates nine primary and five secondary schools.

The government last year was in favor of continuing the subsidy for those already in such schools at the current level for up to 13 years.

But Tong hopes this provision may be extended.

"We are also seeking to protect the siblings of ESF students, those who have applied to ESF schools and are eligible to enrol in kindergartens."

After the subvention is phased out, school fees are expected to rise by 20 to 25percent.

Tong said although subvention details are still being discussed, ESF facilities will not become direct subsidy schools.

He hopes full agreement will be reached on all matters by August so plans may be submitted to the Legislative Council before the end of the year.

If passed, they will be implemented at the start of the 2014-15 school year, Tong said.

The ESF expects the redevelopment of Island School, built 43 years ago, to cost around HK$1 billion.

ESF chief executive Heather Du Quesnay said there are plans to add up to 60 special needs places in what she calls a "mini-Sarah Roe School."

However, Du Quesnay said no decision has been taken on whether learning support classes will be provided.

A spokeswoman for the Education Bureau said a review of the subvention scheme will be based on a holistic perspective of the entire school system and the position played by the ESF.