NET Grant 2026-27
Understanding the NET Grant under EDB
The Native-speaking English Teacher (NET) Scheme aims to enhance English language learning and create an authentic English-rich environment for students in Hong Kong public sector schools.
Starting from the 2025/26 school year, eligible aided schools (including special schools) and caput schools can opt for either (i) retaining the existing NET post; or (ii) receiving a new NET Grant for implementation of the NET Scheme. That is NET Grant can be used instead of retaining a NET post from the traditional NET Scheme.
Key Requirements for Schools to Receive and Use the NET Grant:
- Schools must be eligible aided/caput/special schools and submit the Option Form to EDB.
- Schools must have at least one full-time NET
- Schools can opt to engage a service provider in sourcing the full-time NET
- The NET(s) hired must meet EDB’s qualification standards, including:
- Native-speaker of English or possess native-speaker English competence.
- Bachelor’s degree in any subject (or equivalent).
- EITHER a Post-graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE/PGCE) OR a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL/TESOL) qualification at certificate level (or equivalent).
- For non-native speakers: valid IELTS results (overall band 7.5+, with Speaking 7.5+).
NET Grant Allocation
Full-Year Grant (2026/27):
| School Type | Full-Year NET Grant Amount |
| Primary Schools | HK$900,000 |
| Secondary Schools | HK$1,000,000 |
| Special Schools | Follows APSM/GM rank entitlement |
Maximise the Value from NET Grant and Make the Most of Every Dollar. After covering the cost for the required full-time NET, hired directly or through Headstart, the remaining balance can be used for:
- Hiring additional high-qualified NETs again through Headstart
- Employing Native-speaking English Teacher Assistant (NTAs) also through Headstart
- Engaging our professional School Programmes (including co-curricular English activities, immersion workshops, other English enrichment services and more)
What You Don’t Want to Miss Out?
1. NETs Fully Meeting the EDB Grant Requirements
Headstart can search for the best NET that schools are looking for. Our high-qualified NETs can fulfil the EDB requirements when considering NET Grant. In addition to holding bachelor’s degrees, they also possess highly recognised qualifications, including PGDE/PGCE, TEFL/TESOL, and IELTS.
2. Maximise Your Grant with Extra NETs & Programmes
Use the NET Grant fully and effectively. Schools can hire extra NETs or run rich English programmes with the remaining funds. Our model stretches your grant further than direct hiring.
3. Professional, Hassle-Free Recruitment & Employment
Headstart provides class observation, performance assessment, and real-time support to ensure our NETs integrate smoothly, collaborate effectively with teachers, and deliver the most engaging and result-oriented English lessons. You can take comfort that as your service provider, we are fully compliant with EDB Circular 4/2013 and procurement guidelines.
4. Tailored School Programmes That Drive Results
From English Fun Days to Excursions — our school programmes create measurable improvement in student motivation and language skills. They cultivate students’ curiosity of the English language, and enable them to make good use of English language in their daily life.
5. Full Professional Support for Maximum Impact
Trusted by primary and secondary schools across Hong Kong, 9 out of 10 of our NETs continuously stay at the same schools. 10 out of 10 of our NETs hold highly-recognised qualifications, including PGCE, TEFL and IELTS. You will receive NET Service that is guaranteed in quality, which not only improves students’ English proficiency but also provides students with a superior English learning experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Schools have significant flexibility with remaining funds after covering at least one full-time NET. These can be used to hire additional qualified NETs, native-speaking English Teaching Assistants (NTAs), or engage professional English learning support services — such as co-curricular programmes, after-school activities, language-across-the-curriculum projects, or workshops that create an authentic English-rich environment. Headstart specialises in these areas, helping schools deploy funds innovatively to boost student motivation, engagement, and measurable English outcomes while staying fully within EDB’s ambit.
Schools must comply with EDB Circular No. 4/2013 on Procurement Procedures in Aided Schools (and related School Administration Guide guidelines). This typically involves obtaining multiple quotations or tenders depending on the contract value, ensuring fair and transparent processes.
For aided schools (including special schools), the grant is disbursed in two instalments (typically in September and April). Schools maintain a separate ledger and cannot transfer unspent balances elsewhere. Surplus exceeding 30% of the 12-month provision at year-end may be clawed back based on audited accounts.