Hong Kong has experienced repeated school closures during the Covid-19 pandemic. While many studies and commentaries have drawn our attention to the learning losses and mental health issues resulting from the prolonged shutdowns, little has been said about the impact on students’ personal development, particularly among those in their final years of secondary school.

“Suspending Classes without Suspending Learning” was the slogan used by the Education Bureau and educators to promote continuous e-learning during Covid-19 outbreaks. In some ways, the availability of digital tools to facilitate teaching and learning outside classrooms has allowed policymakers to use class suspensions as a core measure for controlling infection.

However, schools are more than just institutions for acquiring knowledge; they offer a relatively safe environment for young people to try new things, build confidence and develop social skills. This is particularly relevant for upper-secondary school students, who tend to take up important roles in organising functions and interschool activities.