Participation in Mainland study tours among special schools has skyrocketed this academic year, with the number of participating institutions rising nearly 70%. Data revealed that 44 special schools joined the programme for the 2025-26 academic year, up from 26 in the previous year.
The tours are a major component of the Citizenship & Social Development curriculum, a core subject for senior secondary students. To accommodate special school students, the Education Bureau offers seven itineraries for schools to consider, with specific arrangements adjustable as needed.
Breaking barriers
Sharon Lau and Gary Shum, Secondary 5 students at the Hong Kong Red Cross John F. Kennedy Centre, joined a one-day excursion to Shenzhen last academic year. Alongside five classmates, they explored the Nanshan Museum and Nantou Ancient City.
For Sharon, the trip was a revelation in the latest development of Shenzhen. “The trip helped me understand how Shenzhen integrates technological advancement with its historical roots.”
She added that the journey brought her studies to life: “As the saying goes, ‘It is better to travel 10,000 miles than to read 10,000 books.’ Experiencing it firsthand is far more engaging than reading textbooks.”
Her classmate Gary admitted he was initially skeptical. “I thought Shenzhen was just a commercial city of skyscrapers that lacked barrier-free facilities,” he said. “I discovered it is actually quite convenient for wheelchair users and boasts a rich cultural heritage that blends modern creativity with the past.”
Meticulous planning
The school has maintained its momentum this year with a trip to Zhuhai focused on aviation technology. Mak Chi-wai, the subject’s Panel Head, believes the one-day format is ideal for maintaining student focus while addressing physical needs.
“Preparation is very important,” Mr Mak explained. “We hold internal meetings across departments to discuss every student’s physical and emotional requirements. We also work in close co-ordination with the Education Bureau, parents and travel agencies. And we need to draft school-based worksheets tailored to our pupils.”
No boundaries
Despite the logistical hurdles of transporting students with complex needs, the school’s principal Levian Lee remains steadfast in the programme’s value.
“We truly believe that learning has no boundaries,” Miss Lee emphasised. “Every student deserves a meaningful learning experience, which is why we go the extra mile. Through co-ordination with the Education Bureau and the Mainland departments, we ensure a smooth journey that offers firsthand insights into our country’s development.”
“We want our students to realise that the path they can walk is much wider than they imagine,” she added.