Engaging, Empowering and Enlightening: Exchange Programme for Students from NIE Singapore

In an effort to foster international engagement and empower aspiring teachers through dynamic learning experiences, the School-University Partnerships (SUP) Office hosted a new cohort of students from National Institute of Education (NIE) Singapore from December 9 to 20, 2024 as part of the NIE x HKU Exchange Programme.

Through attachment to local schools in Hong Kong and engagement with seasoned educators, the Exchange Programme offers NIE students an invaluable opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills essential for their growth as tomorrow’s teaching professionals and global citizens.

Before commencing their 2-week school attachment, the exchange students attended an induction workshop at the Faculty of Education, HKU, where they were warmly welcomed by Professor Lo Yuen Yi (Associate Dean (Learning & Teaching)), Dr Leung Kin Yi Promail (Director, School-University Partnerships), Ms Tanya Kempston (Programme Director, Postgraduate Diploma of Education) as well as HKU student ambassadors.

In their feedback and reflection, NIE students expressed deep appreciation for the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture and engage with teachers and students in the vibrant learning environments at Chiu Sheung School Hong Kong, HKMA David Li Kwok Po College, and HKUGA College. The experience enabled them to develop disciplinary knowledge and gain insights into diverse educational practices from instructional strategies, assessment design to technology integration and learner engagement. Students also expressed gratitude for the support and guidance provided by the SUP Office and their mentor-teachers/co-ordinators of their host schools.

Here is what the NIE students said: 

“The Faculty of Education did their best to support us in any way possible, always making themselves available to answer any questions that we have.”

“Thank you very much for everything these past few weeks, I truly enjoyed my time in HK and am thankful for the kindness that everyone at HKU has showed to us :)”

“Thank you for a most delightful and enlightening experience!”

“Our mentor was kind and helpful, as well as all the other teachers who took time to share their experiences with us.”

“Timely feedback & discussion, mentors were very approachable and eager to discuss ideas with me despite their busy schedule, clear and warm guidance!”

“My host school and mentor did their best to make us feel welcome and ensure we had the most fruitful learning experience possible”