International schools in Shenzhen

With a rapidly growing expat population, many international schools are beginning to appear in Shenzhen. Parents in the city will likely find no shortage of schools offering modern facilities and innovative international curricula.

Many of these schools are structured to allow students to continue their education in the language and curriculum of their home country, so expat families are sure to find a school that meets their needs. Some schools teach bilingual Chinese-English programmes, which are ideal for families planning to stay for the long term.

It’s essential to consider the proximity of your home to your children’s schools, as Chinese cities are notorious for severe traffic congestion during rush hour. Many children in Shenzhen use public transport to get to school, but most international schools will also offer a school bus at an extra.

International schools in Shenzhen typically offer smaller class sizes, highly qualified teachers, and a wider range of extracurricular activities, but this comes at a cost. Expat parents moving to Shenzhen for work are encouraged to negotiate an educational allowance as part of their relocation package.

Below are some of the top international schools in Shenzhen.

International schools in Shenzhen

International School of Nanshan Shenzhen

The International School of Nanshan Shenzhen is a world IB school that leverages its inquiry-based learning methodology to develop life-long learners who are encouraged to develop their own understanding. The school is the only Canadian school in Shenzhen and is renowned for its arts, athletics, and academic programmes.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and Canadian 
Ages: 3 to 18 
Website: www.isnsz.com

Shekou International School

Established in 1988, Shekou International School is home to more than 1,000 students of more than 40 nationalities. A commitment to educational innovation is at the heart of Shekou International School, which offers specialist science programmes. Shekou International School also offers a French, German, and Chinese language programme, developing bilingual world leaders.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 2 to 18 
Website: www.sis-shekou.org

Shenzhen American International School

A Cognia-accredited school, the Shenzhen American International School offers a rigorous academic programme that adopts tenets from the American, Singaporean, and Chinese curricula. The school has also developed a wide range of arts, athletics, and robotics programmes to ensure they develop students holistically.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and American (Advanced Placement) 
Ages: 3 to 18 
Website: www.szsais.org

QSI International School of Shenzhen

QSI International School of Shenzhen is a non-profit school that develops its programmes to inculcate critical leadership, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills in its students. Teachers at QSI International School of Shenzhen are recruited from native English-speaking countries. Learning at the school is student-centred to ensure that all pupils are successful.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and American 
Ages: 2 to 18 
Website: www.qsi.org/shenzhen