How to level playing field for neighbourhood primary schools

I have two suggestions on how to level the playing field for neighbourhood primary schools.

Presently, pupils of certain primary schools enjoy priority admission to affiliated secondary schools. These primary schools are thus popular in Primary 1 registration. If we were to extend the priority to neighbourhood primary schools, would it be effective in shifting some demand away from “branded” primary schools?

Secondly, the Gifted Education Programme (GEP) is offered in only nine primary schools. Parents are fighting to send their children to these schools even though it does not ensure admission to the GEP in Pri 4.

Maybe nine neighbourhood schools could be assigned to offer the GEP instead. This should help to spread demand more evenly.

I believe in the idea of “every school, a good school”. Our teachers are equally dedicated to educate our next generation, whether in neighbourhood or branded schools. But neighbourhood schools face some disadvantages, as highlighted, that must be addressed in order for them to be on an equal footing.