HK sees 55 Primary One classes slashed in new school year

Amid a declining school-age population, a total of 55 Primary One classes in the city have been cut across 53 schools.

The statistics were published by education authorities on Monday in the Primary School Profiles 2025.

Among the 453 government and aided primary schools, 51 have reduced their one Primary One class offerings, with 14 schools having decreased from two classes to one.

Some schools had temporarily increased their Primary One classes last year to meet local enrollment demands, but these adjustments are now reverting to normal levels

For instance, Tung Chung Catholic School and Ho Yu College and Primary School have each reduced their Primary One classes by two following last year's increases.

43 new class openings amid reductions

Despite the overall trend of class reductions, 38 primary schools have added a total of 43 new Primary One classes this year. 

Notably, the Father Cucchiara Memorial School, relocating to Sham Shui Po, has increased its offerings by three classes.

Meanwhile, the Yan Chai Hospital Chiu Tsang Hok Wan Primary School has successfully reinstated two Primary One classes after being faced with "zero-classes" last year. 

Overall, a net decrease of 12 Primary One courses across the city schools has been recorded.

47 schools operating with one Primary One class

Currently, 47 primary schools are operating only one Primary One class, an increase from 45 last year, with about 30 of these schools located in urban districts like Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

Additionally, 78 schools will only offer two Primary One classes, especially in locations with a large number of placements, such as Yuen Long and Kowloon City. 

Significant reduction in Kwun Tong

It is reported that Kwun Tong has emerged as the hardest-hit area, reporting a net reduction of seven Primary One classes, followed by Yuen Long and Island District. 

In contrast, Sai Kung has seen an increase of six classes, with Tsuen Wan and Central and Western Districts adding three classes respectively.