Parent's Review of QSI International School Shekou in Shenzhen, China

What is the name of your child's school? (Please report on one school per survey.)

QSI International School Shekou

In what town or city is this school located?

Shenzhen

How would you describe this school? (i.e. American, British, International, Local, etc.)

American Curriculum

What grade levels are represented at this school?

age 2/3 up to age 18

How do most children get to school everyday? (bus, train, walk, etc.)

Variety of Ways: The school has changed the school's bus (subcontracted bus service) company twice recently to try to ensure better service/safety. Many older students ride scooters, ride public bus or walk. There are 4 different physical campuses (pre-school, lower elementary, middle school, and high school locations)

How would you describe the facilities at this school? What extra-curricular activities are available?

My children attended an international school in europe prior to coming to QSI Shekou. Compared to europe the facilities/activities are disappointing. Compared to other options in Shenzhen QSI is fantastic. All levels have some extra-c. activities. The middle/upper schools are members of ACAMIS & PRD (sports leagues). Many kids compete in soccer,Bsktball, Volleyball, Track & also they have pingpong,tennis, and more. The drama department puts on at least 2 plays a year (often using their outdoor "theater in the round" "a little hot at time")

What has this school done to help your child transition from the curriculum in your home country into the curriculum in your new country? Are there programs to prepare your child for repatriation?

My kids have attended for 2 years. Middle/High school experience: I felt they were significantly under challenged the first year. The Directors got that message and things are improving. We are native english speakers so not much adjustment for us. The high school has both AP and IB programs. A student can graduate with a regular diploma, select a few AP classes or study for the full IB diploma. The class offerings in AP and IB are limited from our past experience but QSI is trying to expand them. These programs will help students repatriate to almost any country.

How would you describe the social activities available for parents through this school? Are there parent-teacher organizations?

QSI has a PTA that they call Parent Support Group. Sadly, not many parents get involved or understand what a PTA traditionally does at a school. Recently the PSG has encouraged parents to take on "grade level liaison positions" like "room mom's". The idea is to bring in more parent involvement and improve communication among the parents, students and administration. I would guess that less than 5% of students are American. I think the largest student groups are Korean, Chinese/other Nationality mix, and often the "trailing spouse" doesn't speak english or lacks confidence in speaking english.

What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling their child in this school?

I think student of all ages can be successful at QSI. If you're coming from a great school in europe or the USA you might be disappointed initially. China is growing/changing so fast it's hard for the schools to keep up.

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