At Qingdao No. 2 High School, a fertile ground for nurturing elites, Junhao was once among the many students striving for excellence. As the top public high school in Shandong Province, Qingdao No. 2 High School is undoubtedly the dream school for many students. However, the fierce competition in the mainland college entrance examination, even for those from prestigious schools, does not guarantee easy access to a satisfactory university. To better support Junhao's dream of attending one of the top four universities in Hong Kong, we made a significant decision at the end of his second semester of high school sophomore year—to switch Junhao from the mainland college entrance examination track to the DSE track and enroll him at Country Garden Silver Beach School among many international schools.
This decision not only meant that Junhao had to quickly transition from the mainland college entrance examination system to the Hong Kong college entrance examination system but also that he would leave home for the first time to pursue his studies thousands of miles away. Faced with such challenges, we were filled with concerns and reluctance. Fortunately, every teacher at Country Garden Silver Beach School provided us with immense help, care, and encouragement. In particular, Director Fan Hongjun repeatedly communicated with Junhao and coordinated with subject teachers to customize a personalized learning plan for him, ensuring that he could quickly adapt and make progress in his new learning environment. His homeroom teacher, Ms. Lina, was like an older sister who provided Junhao with warmth and helped him quickly adapt to independent living, allowing him to prepare for the college entrance examination in an environment full of love and warmth.
The rigorous school spirit, sincere teaching style, and pragmatic learning atmosphere of Country Garden Silver Beach School brought us deep relief. We are grateful for the fate that brought us together with this school and wish it continued success in cultivating more outstanding students. At the same time, we hope that the school can increase its promotion of the DSE to attract more students from different regions and regions to come, achieve mutual success, and develop together.
Having gone through the journey of the DSE college entrance examination, we have the following profound insights:
Secondly, the DSE curriculum is similar to the mainland high school curriculum system, making it not too difficult for mainland students to switch to the DSE. Especially for students who have completed the mainland curriculum system in primary and middle schools before switching to the DSE, they have certain advantages. However, it should be noted that English learning needs to be emphasized to meet the requirements of the DSE examination.
Furthermore, after switching tracks, Junhao became more sunshine and confident with clearer goals. We also gradually freed ourselves from previous anxieties and focused more on discussing the challenges and gains of various subjects with Junhao, enjoying this growth journey together.
Lastly, although the DSE examination lasts for a month and each subject has a relatively long exam time, the examination atmosphere is relatively relaxed and does not bring too much pressure to candidates. Such an examination environment helps children perform their best.
Every child has their own shining points, and the DSE system can amplify their advantages, allowing them to find their own brilliance. We hope that more students and parents can learn about this track and add another possibility to their academic planning. We are grateful to Country Garden Silver Beach School for providing a valuable platform and opportunities for Junhao's growth and wish all students who choose the DSE track can achieve their dreams!