Teachers to Face Certification and National Security Rules in New Schools Bill

A new schools bill to be gazetted this week will require all teachers, including principals, in publicly funded, private, and international schools as well as kindergartens to hold valid practising certificates and be barred from classrooms upon conviction of national security offences. The Education Bureau said all teachers would need registration and a practising certificate valid for no more than three school years, while they will also have to meet continuing professional development requirements.

School teachers in Hong Kong will be required to hold practising certificates and barred from classrooms upon conviction of national security offences under an education amendment bill to be gazetted on Friday. The Education (Amendment) Bill 2026 will apply to all teachers, including principals, in publicly funded, private, and international schools as well as kindergartens. They will need to be registered and hold a practising certificate that is valid for no more than three school years. The Education Bureau emphasized the bill would help teachers keep up with changing local and global education policies and ensure their knowledge and teaching methods meet students’ and society’s needs. The Education Bureau spokesman stated the bill could boost public regard for the profession and lift teachers’ standing in society, noting that as role models and key persons for nurturing students, teachers' conduct and values have a profound impact on students. The bill also includes safeguards to prevent people convicted of offences endangering national security from teaching in schools. The legislation has been subject to consultations since September last year and will be introduced to the Legislative Council for a first and second reading on November 25.

Teachers applying for a practising certificate will also have to meet continuing professional development requirements, which the bureau said would ensure teachers are up-to-date with the latest educational practices and developments. Amid the complex and rapidly changing social landscape, public and parents have increasingly high expectations of teachers' professionalism. The bill meets schools’ actual operational needs, encourages teachers to keep pace with the times, and strengthens teacher management, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding the well-being of students.

The legislation underscores the government's commitment to fostering a secure and professional educational environment. By requiring practising certificates and mandating regular professional development, the bill aims to ensure that teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the evolving needs of students in a rapidly changing society. The consultations conducted by the Education Bureau suggest a broader recognition of the role teachers play beyond the classroom, with their influence extending into the values and behaviors of their students. As such, the bill seeks to elevate the status of teachers in society while also addressing the security concerns of the administration.