HKU English Academy for the Talented

The Academy for the Talented English Programme (ATEP) is an online learning programme designed  by  Professor Grahame T Bilbow.  Professor Bilbow has extensive English teaching experience, and is the author of many English textbooks for primary, secondary and university study. The programme aims to enhance English communication and language skills through the medium of topics that are globally and socially significant. Students will undertake independent personal research which results in personally-created objects and research-based assignments and presentations. 

Programme Date and Time: August 12-16, 2024 (4 p.m. to 7 p.m. HKT)

Target: S2-5 / Year 9-12 / 2025-28 September University Intake

Programme Fee: 

HK$4,000 (Academy member)

HK$4,800 (Non-member)

Delivery Mode of Programme: Online

Grant*: HK$0

*Please fill in the grant application for overseas students HERE

Programme Code: ACTENGLISHSUMMER2024

Registration: https://admissions.hku.hk/tasterapp/application/auth/login

Application Deadline: May 31, 2024 (23:59)

Description:

This is a module in English for the Arts & Humanities programme supporting secondary 2 to 5 students.  It is designed for students  who wish to progressively enhance their English language and communication skills for academic study in a range of disciplines in the Arts & Humanities.

In addition to developing their academic study skills and content language for academic study, it also helps students to develop essential skills for interpersonal collaboration and independent research. It helps students to improve their ability to express ideas and concepts through English effectively and with commitment, and to do so in clear and error-free English, both in speaking and writing.  It also gives students experience of collaborating with others in the investigation of topics of global and social significance.  Such knowledge, skills and attributes are essential prerequisites for undergraduate studies in today's universities.   

The topics are "Gender Equality”; “Quality Education”; and “Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions” which are drawn upon the seventeen powerful and socially relevant United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that are currently driving social and economic development around the world. ​  

Teaching and learning are delivered online through synchronous virtual class meetings, and through asynchronous study, drawing upon a range of rich online resources.  Students are encouraged to work individually with the support of the tutor and to collaborate with their peers in small virtual groups. All students develop a topic of personal interest which they need to research and showcase to other students through the medium of an end-of-course project.  

Learning Objectives:

1. To develop and demonstrate the ability to communicate complex, inter-related ideas effectively and with commitment, in clear and error-free spoken and written English. 

2. To develop and demonstrate a thorough understanding of topics of global and social importance, using a multi-perspective study approach based on readings in the Arts and Humanities. 

3. To collaborate collegially with others in the investigation of topics of global and social importance.

​Selection and Result Announcement: All applications will be assessed according to applicants’ individual calibre and potential. Application results and payment details will be announced to successful applicants via email.

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"I really like learning English through global issues rather than just exercises drilling. The course definitely further increases my interests in sustainable development and societal problems."
Au Hin Yuen, Harmony, Bishop Mok Sau Tseng Secondary School (ATEP Summer 2021)

"It has made me a lot more aware of social issues that will allow me to change my behaviour in my daily life. I'm also currently much more interested in the news, especially ones relating to justice and fairness between different social groups."                                   Chan Hoi Kiu, Yew Chung International School (ATEP Summer 2021)

"This course widened my perspective and enriched my knowledge in important issues in the world, and encouraged me to pay more attention to these issues, as well as taking an active role in society to help with these issues, starting from educating myself. It also furthered my love for English and the Humanities, as well as raised my awareness towards social issues around the world."
Chan Hiu Yau Heidi, Heep Yunn School (ATEP Summer 2021)

"It has enabled me to speak up on my opinions instead of keeping them to myself. I feel much more educated on global issues and learnt to treat education as a privilege. This has given me a better learning attitude."
Jasmine Li, SKH Tsang Shiu Tim Secondary School (ATEP Summer 2021)

*It is our firm belief that no student should be denied admission due to financial difficulties. Grant is available for students who can provide supporting documents issued by the Student Finance Office for receiving a full grant of Student Textbook Assistance Scheme or documents from the Social Welfare Department for obtaining CSSA. To apply, please select the specific programme on the system accordingly.

Disclaimer: Programme contents and formats are subject to change.  We will continue to work closely with professors to refine our programme and ensure that students will have a safe and enjoyable time. Programme fees and application fees are non-refundable.