Secondary School Environmental Education Series

Organised by The Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education (HKAGE) and delivered by OWLHK, this programme focuses on invasive alien species. It aims to deepen gifted junior secondary school students' understanding of ecology and biodiversity, with a particular emphasis on enhancing their awareness and research capabilities in preventing and managing invasive species. Upon completing theoretical sessions and field-based learning, students engage in collaborative research projects to sharpen their problem-solving, autonomous learning, self-confidence, reflective thinking, and presentation skills. Concurrently, the curriculum nurtures positive values and attitudes, including environmental stewardship, respect for life, and civic responsibility.

Started in February 2026, the programme features guidance from local ecology experts, leading 25 gifted students out of the classroom and into nature to dissect the ecological challenges arising from invasive species through an inquiry-based approach.

Our experiential learning footprint covers:

• Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve
• Pok Fu Lam Country Park
• Northwest New Territories Wetlands
• Pak Nai Wetland
• Kam Tin Sheung Tsuen
• Ho Sheung Heung Ecological Paddy Field
• “Goldfish Market” in Mong Kok, etc.

By immersing themselves in these outdoor environments, students build a deep emotional connection with nature. Coupled with diversified extended learning activities and group research, they take concrete actions to explore and care for local biodiversity. The programme ultimately empowers students to understand their personal roles in environmental conservation—especially regarding the challenge of invasive alien species—fostering environmental stewardship and action to drive sustainable development in Hong Kong.

[Phase 1 - Ecology and Biodiversity in Hong Kong]

Through interactive indoor lectures, educational games, and field trips, students master the foundational principles of Hong Kong's ecology and biodiversity, including taxonomy, species interactions, and ecosystem dynamics. This phase also serves as a crucial primer for upcoming topics, introducing the definition and transmission pathways of invasive alien species, as well as their profound impacts on local ecosystems, human health, and socio-economics.

Students exploring Hong Kong's forest ecology and species interactions through a lively,

Immersive field learning at the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve, where students experience and explore Hong Kong's rich forest ecosystems.

Spotting diverse bird species at Nam Sang Wai, a renowned birdwatching hotspot, while observing and reflecting on how the invasive mangrove Sonneratia encroaches upon vital bird habitats.

[Phase 2 - Invasive Alien Species (IAS) & Society]

Combining indoor lectures with on-site sharing by conservation experts and organisations, this phase delves into the research and management strategies of local invasive species. Students get hands-on experience by participating in invasive species removal, gaining first-hand insight into the practical challenges faced by conservationists. Furthermore, they venture into the community to conduct market surveys, exploring feasible schemes for the prevention and regulation of invasive species at the source.

Field observation of local stream ecology, where students learn to identify and compare the ecological statuses of both native and exotic freshwater species.

A hands-on conservation experience as students participate in the removal of invasive Smooth Cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) to protect local mudflats.

Embarking on an exciting night safari to search for and record both native and exotic nocturnal species.

The programme is gearing up for an exciting new phase — stay tuned to our website for more updates!