The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) launched the Pilot Scheme of Greater Bay Area Field Experience (Pilot Scheme) in the academic year 2022/23 to facilitate a better understanding of the rapid development in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). In June 2023, the School Partnership and Field Experience Office organised three weeks of block practice for 14 students on the Bachelor of Education (Honours) programme. The students visited the Shenzhen Hong Kong Pui Kiu College Longhua Xinyi School, followed by practising teaching at the Guangzhou or Dongguan campuses of the Affiliated School of Jinan University for Hong Kong & Macao Students. They also participated in cultural exchange activities to enrich their learning experience and broaden their knowledge of teaching.

In preparation for the programme, students took a series of foundation courses to better understand the education system, relevant laws and regulations in the mainland, as well as strengthen their communication skills. During the block practice, students observed the lessons of their supporting teachers and provided assistance when needed. In the last week of the programme, field experience observations were conducted, and students received feedback on their teaching performance. Through this Pilot Scheme, students not only received professional advice from experienced teachers of both the attachment school and EdUHK, but also learned the daily operation of GBA schools, which is beneficial for their professional development.

On 7 June 2023, Professor John Lee Chi-Kin, President (Designate) and Vice President (Academic) and Provost, led a delegation of EdUHK senior management team members on a two-day visit of four cities in the GBA, namely Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Dongguan and Foshan. The team visited three partner schools, met with school personnel, observed lessons, and talked with students about their GBA internship. The team also visited Gungho Space in Foshan to gain a better understanding of the advancements in innovative technologies and entrepreneurship. The purpose of the visit was to establish professional networks in the GBA and explore potential opportunities for future collaboration with GBA working partners.

The Pilot Scheme aimed to share the latest developments in the GBA with young pre-service teachers. Through the programme, students gained valuable experience which broadened their horizons. It is hoped that it helped enhance their competitiveness for career development as professional teachers. The Pilot Scheme also provided a blueprint for organising similar activities in the future.