Voice of the Children Pilot Community-School Partnership Project–Shek Lei Voice of the Children
In collaboration with our local partner, the HKSKH Lady MacLehose Centre (HKSKH), Shek Lei Catholic Primary School (SLCPS) launched the first “Voice of the Children” Pilot Community-School Partnership Project “Shek Lei Voice of the Children” in a primary school setting from November 2024 to July 2025. A group of Primary 6 students took on the role of “Junior Community Planners” (hereafter referred to as “Junior Planners”). Focusing on the redevelopment of Blocks 10 and 11 in Shek Lei Estate, participants gained a deep understanding of local community assets and needs, and developed practical improvement proposals through structured community project planning.
The Ideal Community ofas envisioned by the “Junior Community Planners”
Stage 0 – Before Commencement
The project began with engaging, child-friendly activities such as the “Squirrel Relocation” game and the “Draw Your Ideal Community” exercise. These introductions helped students grasp the concept of public housing redevelopment and encouraged them to imagine what a truly child-friendly community might look like. During a school assembly, the principal officially appointed 21 students as “SLCPS Junior Community Planners”, tasking them with discovering and highlighting Shek Lei’s unique features while proposing ways to make the community more child-friendly.
Stage 1 – Community Issue Identification
The Junior Planners took part in the “Child Rights Classroom” activity, where interactive games and group discussions introduced them to the four fundamental rights of children. This helped them realise that, as young citizens, they have the right to express their views on matters affecting their community. Representatives from Very Hong Kong, our professional collaborator, were invited to explain the role of city planners and to share practical methods for observing the community—including key concepts such as community assets (people, culture, land, landscape, and economy) and site auditing. Inspired by this, the students undertook a community walk through Shek Lei, learning about its public housing history and identifying community needs. They then compiled their observations into a Community Asset Map, visually capturing the distinctive strengths and resources of their neighbourhood.
Stage 2 – Planning of Community Actions
The Junior Planners divided into four thematic groups: “History of Shek Lei Public Housing”, “Human Touch of Shek Lei”, “Children’s Ideal Public Spaces”, and “Transportation Planning in Shek Lei”. They gathered feedback from fellow students during recess and attended a two-day overnight training camp. At the camp, they visited Kwun Tong Garden Estate and Mei Ho House in Sham Shui Po to draw inspiration from other neighbourhoods. They also participated in a Design Thinking Workshop led by designer Mr. Benny Lau, where they acquired creative tools to shape their group action plans.
Stage 3 – Implementation of Community Actions
The Junior Planners met with key community stakeholders, including Kwai Tsing District Council Members and a Senior Architect from the Housing Department. These meetings gave them the chance to share their perspectives on community issues and to learn directly about the design direction and progress of the redevelopment of Blocks 10 and 11 in Shek Lei Estate. In addition, students were invited to attend a Housing Authority Members’ Meeting with concern groups, where they presented suggestions to enhance residents’ sense of well-being in Shek Lei Estate. Two Junior Planners, together with Dr. Kanie Siu, CEO of Plan International Hong Kong, were also interviewed on Commercial Radio’s “Kiss Kiss Kids” programme. There, they shared their experiences from the “Voice of the Children” project and highlighted the importance of child participation.
Written Response from the Housing Authority Following the Consultation Meeting (Chinese Only)
Stage 4 – Programme-end (Evaluation)
The project concluded with the “Shek Lei Voice of the Children” Exhibition and Award Ceremony, held on 12–13 July 2025 at D·PARK in Tsuen Wan. The Junior Planners proudly presented their community proposals and exchanged ideas with distinguished guests, including Ms. Chan Sin-yee, Social Welfare Department Officer for Tsuen Wan and Kwai Tsing District, and Dr. Hon Tik Chi-yuen, Legislative Council Member. The students showcased their ideal community models, led guided tours of the exhibition, and hosted a community zine sharing session—all with the aim of deepening public understanding of child participation and its value.
