Britannica International School vs The British International School Shanghai Puxi

	B Britannica International School Shanghai, China	T The British International School Shanghai Puxi Shanghai, China
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year RMB 252,300 - 356,700	Fees / year RMB 271,600 - 385,090
Age range	Age range 1½ - 18 years	Age range 0 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE	Curriculum EYFS (Early years foundation stage), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP), Australian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 1,000
Typical class size	Typical class size 10	Typical class size 21
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2013	Opened 2004
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Britannica International School is in Gubei (Puxi), at 1988 Gubei Road near Wuzhong Road — a centrally located site about 10 minutes from Xujiahui CBD and roughly 15 minutes from the former French Concession. The school is inside the city (easy for downtown accommodation) and is served by multiple school-bus routes and short commute times.	Location Located in Huacao Town, Minhang (Puxi), the school's main campus is at 111 Jinguang Road — a residential suburb of western Shanghai with good road links to the city and access by taxi; some local listings note nearby metro access (Xujing Dong is commonly used for this area).
Stages	Stages The school covers Early Years through Sixth Form: Early Years (18 months–5 years), Primary (Key Stage 1: ages 5–7; Key Stage 2: 7–11) and Secondary (Key Stage 3: 11–13; Key Stage 4 / IGCSE: 14–16; Sixth Form / A-Level: 16–18).	Stages The school serves children from early years through to the IB/A‑level age range (listed as Early Years 18 months–5, Primary 5–11, Lower Secondary 11–14, Upper Secondary 14–16, and A level & IB Academy 16–18).
School type	School type Britannica is a British international day school delivering the English National Curriculum; students are educated together (co-educational). The school's materials and handbooks describe a day-school model (no boarding provision is listed on the school website).	School type BISS Puxi is a co‑educational day international school and is part of the Nord Anglia Education group; it does not operate boarding at the Puxi campus.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school runs a dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme and reports specialist EAL teachers and withdrawal sessions where needed. For additional learning needs the Primary handbook describes an inclusive approach: pupils are supported in mainstream classes by qualified teachers and teaching assistants and, where necessary, follow individualised programmes. Pastoral care and regular assessment are used to identify and plan support.	Additional learning support The school runs EAL (English as an Additional Language) programmes with tailored lessons and intensive English options for learners new to English, and provides learning‑support/EAL staffing to work with students in class and in small groups. Nord Anglia schools also describe Learning Support/AEN provision (individual plans and targeted interventions) as part of their approach.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school is British in curriculum and ownership: it delivers the English National Curriculum, prepares students for IGCSE and A Level, and states it is British‑owned and British‑managed.	Country affiliation The school follows a British (English National Curriculum / IGCSE / IB) model and is branded as The British International School, Shanghai (Puxi).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is listed on the school's public pages; the school presents itself as a secular British international school.	Religious affiliation The school is secular / non‑denominational; no religious affiliation is listed on the school's public information pages.
School day structure	School day structure The published school hours list the day school as 08:20–15:00 with After School Activities 15:00–16:00; the FAQs note buses start arriving from about 08:00, a registration period around 08:20, and formal lessons beginning at 08:40, with a morning break and lunch.	School day structure Published campus hours are Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm. After‑school activity transport is arranged separately (see transport notes below) for students participating in extended programmes.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school operates a comprehensive door‑to‑door bus service with many routes across the city; routes and pick‑up/drop‑off times are updated as families join. Buses meet local safety regulations, and each bus is supervised by a bilingual bus monitor who is also a school teaching assistant; the service is optional and charged separately. Specific route stop lists are published on the school site.	Bus service details The school operates a paid bus service to and from campus; buses are described as fitted with seatbelts and accompanied by a bus monitor. The school also offers transportation specifically for its after‑school activities (noted as a 4:40pm service). For routes, fees and registration you should contact admissions/transport directly as the school arranges and manages routes locally.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Tuition fees (Academic Year 2025–26) - Pre-Nursery: Autumn RMB 100,900 • Spring RMB 75,700 • Summer RMB 75,700 • Total (3 instalments) RMB 252,300 • Paid in full (by 1 Aug, 3% discount) RMB 244,700. - Nursery: Autumn RMB 105,700 • Spring RMB 79,300 • Summer RMB 79,300 • Total RMB 264,300 • Paid in full RMB 256,400. - Reception: Autumn RMB 112,700 • Spring RMB 84,600 • Summer RMB 84,600 • Total RMB 281,900 • Paid in full RMB 273,500. - Year 1–2: Autumn RMB 124,000 • Spring RMB 93,200 • Summer RMB 93,200 • Total RMB 310,400 • Paid in full RMB 301,100. - Year 3–4: Autumn RMB 124,000 • Spring RMB 93,200 • Summer RMB 93,200 • Total RMB 310,400 • Paid in full RMB 301,100. - Year 5–6: Autumn RMB 127,600 • Spring RMB 95,800 • Summer RMB 95,800 • Total RMB 319,200 • Paid in full RMB 309,700. - Year 7–9: Autumn RMB 135,700 • Spring RMB 101,800 • Summer RMB 101,800 • Total RMB 339,300 • Paid in full RMB 329,100. - Year 10–11: Autumn RMB 139,100 • Spring RMB 104,400 • Summer RMB 104,400 • Total RMB 347,900 • Paid in full RMB 337,500. - Year 12–13: Autumn RMB 142,700 • Spring RMB 107,000 • Summer RMB 107,000 • Total RMB 356,700 • Paid in full RMB 346,000. Application, registration and deposit - Registration fee (non‑refundable on acceptance): RMB 2,500. - Enrolment deposit payable on acceptance: RMB 20,000. The RMB 20,000 deposit is credited against the next term's tuition; a place is not guaranteed until the deposit is paid. Billing schedule and payment terms - Autumn term and annual fees are due by 1 August. Parents may pay termly in advance or pay the full annual fee by 1 August to receive a 3% discount. - Overdue fees may incur a 2% monthly surcharge, compounded monthly. - If fees are unpaid, the school may withhold attendance and may reallocate the place at latest two weeks before term starts. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are listed. There is no boarding provision indicated in the school fee schedule. Other costs and optional charges - School uniform and PE kit: required and sold at the uniform shop (costs borne by parents). - School lunch (mandatory): RMB 31 per meal and RMB 4 per snack; invoiced by the school caterer and paid directly to the caterer. - School bus (optional): RMB 160 per day — payable termly or annually. - EAL or additional learning support: charged separately as required (dependent on individual needs). - Tuition for Year 10 and above includes public examination entrance fees. Refunds and withdrawal - Before 18 May: full refund. - Before 1 July: tuition refund less the RMB 20,000 deposit. - After 1 July: six weeks' tuition fee from the Autumn term payment is payable (no full refund). - Leaving mid‑year: six weeks' notice is required or six weeks' fees payable in lieu of notice. - Mid‑year refund calculations are based on the standard fee (early‑payment discount not considered). Sibling discounts - Second child: 5% discount; Third child: 5% discount. Payment methods and bank details - Payment is accepted in RMB or USD at the prevailing exchange rate. Parents are responsible for all overseas transfer charges and should ensure the pupil's name is quoted on transfer details. - RMB and USD bank account details and beneficiary/SWIFT information are provided by the school's finance office (see the school fee schedule for the account and SWIFT fields).	Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application Fee: RMB 3,500 (non-refundable, payable on submission of the application). - Enrolment Fee: RMB 4,000 (non-refundable, payable on acceptance of a place). - Resourcing Fee: RMB 16,000 (refundable on leaving provided all accounts are clear and school property is returned undamaged). Tuition fees (per student) — annual and per-term - Pre‑Nursery, Nursery, Reception — Annual: RMB 271,600; Term 1: RMB 112,000; Term 2: RMB 84,000; Term 3: RMB 84,000. - Year 1 to Year 6 — Annual: RMB 319,130; Term 1: RMB 131,600; Term 2: RMB 98,700; Term 3: RMB 98,700. - Year 7 to Year 9 — Annual: RMB 354,050; Term 1: RMB 146,000; Term 2: RMB 109,500; Term 3: RMB 109,500. - Year 10 to Year 11 — Annual: RMB 378,300; Term 1: RMB 156,000; Term 2: RMB 117,000; Term 3: RMB 117,000. - Year 12 to Year 13 — Annual: RMB 385,090; Term 1: RMB 158,800; Term 2: RMB 119,100; Term 3: RMB 119,100. Billing schedule & payment terms - Fees may be paid by electronic bank transfer or cheque in USD, HKD, GBP or RMB; cash payments accepted only in RMB. A copy of the bank remittance with the child's name and year group must be sent to the school. Conversion from foreign currency to RMB is based on the exchange rate at time of payment. - All winter term and annual fees are due by 30 May. Pupils may only attend school once required fees have been paid. Boarding - The Puxi campus operates as a day school; boarding is not provided at this campus. Other charges - Uniform: All students are required to wear school uniform and a separate PE kit; items are purchased from the school uniform shop. - School lunch: estimated set-lunch prices vary by option and age group (examples in the fee information range approximately RMB 34–60 per set meal; specific prices depend on option chosen). - School bus (optional): Term 1 RMB 9,650; Term 2 RMB 7,350; Term 3 RMB 5,150. - Compulsory residential trip charge invoiced with tuition for specified year groups (years 3–10 and Year 12); no refunds are given for absence from trips. Withdrawal & refunds - Six weeks' written notice (via the school's withdrawal form) is required prior to the student's last day. If six weeks' notice is not given, six weeks' fees will be charged in lieu of notice. - If notice of withdrawal is received at least six weeks before the last day, remaining pre-paid tuition will be refunded in full; resourcing fee refundable subject to conditions. A cancellation charge of RMB 16,000 applies for new students who do not attend after a place has been reserved. Fee payment options (summary) - Accepted: electronic/bank transfer and cheque (USD, HKD, GBP, RMB). - Cash: RMB only. - Parents should forward a copy of the bank remittance to the school when paying by transfer; currency conversion uses the exchange rate at payment time.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform and PE kit are required; sold at the uniform shop.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Lunch is provided in the dining hall at 31-35 RMB per meal; vegetarian and medical dietary provisions are accommodated.	Food options —
House system	House system There are four Houses; all pupils are allocated to a House, and Houses compete in sporting, academic and entertainment activities. The school year comprises three termly championships, with a Cup awarded to the winning House; House events use House T-shirts in the corresponding colour, sold via the uniform shop.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is owned and operated by Orbital Education; a School Board governs Britannica International School, Shanghai.	Governance and ownership The school is part of the Nord Anglia Education family.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Britannica International School, Shanghai follows the English National Curriculum from Early Years through Sixth Form; its Early Years programme (18 months–5 years) uses the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). In Primary (Key Stage 1–2, Years 1–6) the school delivers the English National Curriculum with specialist teaching beginning in Reception (including languages, swimming and music). Secondary is organised as Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) and Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11), with Key Stage 4 leading to externally examined IGCSE qualifications. The Sixth Form (ages 16–18) is a two‑year programme preparing students for AS/A2 and A‑Level examinations, typically taken in 3–4 subjects for university entry. Alongside the core curriculum the school provides an extensive World Languages programme (Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, French, Italian, Spanish, Hebrew) and English-as-an-additional-language (EAL) support.	Curriculum details The British International School Shanghai, Puxi offers a continuous British-rooted, internationally adapted pathway for learners aged 18 months–18 years: Early Years (EYFS), Primary (English National Curriculum with the International Primary Curriculum), Key Stage 3, IGCSE and the IB Diploma, and the school notes A‑levels will be available from August 2026. Early Years (18 months–5 years) follows the English Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework with the seven areas of learning (three prime and four specific areas) and play-based provision. Primary (ages 5–11) uses the English National Curriculum adapted through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), with emphasis on core subjects (English, maths, science), language learning including Mandarin and preparation for YCT/HSK where appropriate. Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3, ages 11–14) follows the English National Curriculum in a subject-focused model with specialist teaching, language options (Mandarin plus other modern languages), STEAM and performing-arts provision to prepare students for subject choices. Upper Secondary (ages 14–16) prepares students for Cambridge IGCSE qualifications (core: English, mathematics, Global Perspectives and a second language with a range of optional subjects) and post-16 students follow the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (six subject groups plus Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS).
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Britannica describes personalised pastoral care as central to its approach: pupils are known by every teacher, form teachers act as the daily communication link with parents, and small classes (often with teaching assistants) are used to support individual growth. The school says UK‑qualified staff regularly assess students' needs and progress against UK standards to guide personalised support. The site highlights designated pastoral leadership in both Primary and Secondary (including a Deputy Head of Secondary responsible for Pastoral Care). Recent school news also describes whole‑school wellbeing events (Global Wellbeing Week) that include assemblies, mindfulness activities and reflective workshops.	Social & emotional learning The school states that mindfulness is embedded across the curriculum and that wellbeing is included in its pastoral and guidance programme to develop students' social and emotional skills. It runs wellbeing programmes and seminars for students and parents that cover topics such as time management and stress reduction. Secondary pastoral structure includes Heads of Year and Form Tutors who provide regular registration time, assemblies and guidance lessons focused on social and emotional development. The school also uses outdoor and project-based activities (for example, a Year 3 farm project) to build resilience and social skills. These provisions are described on the school's webpages about wellbeing, pastoral care and recent project reports.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school's admissions information states it is non‑selective but that the admissions team will consider whether the school can meet any specific learning needs when assessing applications. Staff profiles on the site show individual teachers with formal SEN training or experience (for example, a teacher who trained as an SEN teacher and staff with SEN co‑ordinator experience). The website does not publish a detailed list of the specific types of special educational needs it can support. The school's website does not present Britannica as a specialist SEN institution; there is no statement describing it as a specialist SEN school.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school publishes a named Head of Special Educational Needs (Louise King) and describes an Achievement Centre used for teaching pupils with SEN and enrichment requirements. The Louise King staff profile states the role leads whole-school, collaborative approaches to SEN and individualised teaching programmes. The school website does not publish a detailed list of specific categories of SEN it supports nor does it state that it is a specialist SEN institution. For clarity on which particular needs the school can support and any limits to provision, the school advises contacting admissions or the SEN team directly. This staff profile is the school's public source for its SEN provision.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Britannica states it delivers a comprehensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme taught by specialist, experienced teachers and that all students are assessed for reading, writing and speaking on entry and throughout their time at school. Classroom teaching is differentiated and, in Secondary, students are placed in ability groups for English support; the duration and intensity of support vary by individual need. The school's leadership biographies also note staff with formal EAL training and coordination experience. The website emphasises a tailored approach to each student's English development rather than a single uniform programme.	English as an additional language The school describes a bespoke EAL programme that uses the Cambridge English framework across Primary and into Secondary, alongside tailored Intensive English Lessons (one-to-one or small group) for learners new to English. It notes use of phonics (Read Write Inc.), visual resources, writing frames, and the Cambridge English assessments with reported pass rates in school communications. The Key Stage pages also state students with limited English are supported through the school's EAL provision. If you need current test outcomes or entry-level arrangements, the school's EAL news and curriculum pages provide the published details and the admissions team can confirm placement processes.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school's published news describes recurring wellbeing initiatives (Global Wellbeing Week) that include mindfulness workshops, assemblies, self‑care activities, physical exercise and reflective projects across Early Years, Primary and Secondary. Pastoral materials state the school aims to create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing worries and where teachers monitor welfare closely. Staff training and the pastoral structure (form teachers, year leads and pastoral leaders) are presented as mechanisms to identify and respond to students' emotional needs. The website therefore documents both curriculum‑linked and extra‑curricular activities aimed at supporting students' mental wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing BISS Puxi states that wellbeing is built into the curriculum and pastoral guidance, with mindfulness explicitly referenced as embedded practice. The school runs wellbeing seminars and programmes for students and parents on topics such as stress reduction and time management, and reports nature-based projects to develop resilience. Nord Anglia's recent partnership activity also references wellbeing and performance coaching through its IMG Academy collaboration, which Nord Anglia describes as providing wellbeing coaching and mindset work across the group. For clinical or specialist mental-health services the school site describes school-based pastoral and guidance support; specific clinical provision or external referral pathways are not detailed on the public pages and should be confirmed with the school if required.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school's Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (published on the website) names the Designated Safeguarding Lead (Anthony O'Brien) and Deputy DSL (Katherine Mustoe), requires all staff to complete approved child protection training, and sets out safer‑recruitment checks, reporting procedures and record‑keeping. The policy cites UK safeguarding guidance, requires annual policy review and explicitly describes staff responsibilities for reporting concerns and keeping accurate records. The school requires DBS or equivalent police checks and mandates regular staff training and induction on safeguarding procedures. These elements are documented in the school's published Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.	Safeguarding Nord Anglia Education publishes a group Safeguarding Policy and states that safeguarding and child protection procedures are applied across its schools; the school's pages reference that group-level education and quality-assurance teams drive safeguarding best practice at BISS Puxi. BISS Puxi also reports renewal of accreditation with the Council of British International Schools (COBIS), and the COBIS accreditation statement on the school news page highlights standards for safeguarding and governance. Nord Anglia has recently publicised senior safeguarding appointments at group level to lead and advise its safeguarding strategy. The school's public pages point parents to group and school contacts for detailed safeguarding policies and designated safeguarding leads.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school operates from a purpose-built campus in the heart of the city. The building features state-of-the-art classrooms, specialist science and technology rooms, a library, ICT suites and a 250-seat theatre. Premier sporting facilities include a swimming pool, a sports hall, astro turf, tennis courts, and basketball and netball courts. The campus is located at 1988 Gubei Road near Wuzhong Road, Shanghai 201103.	Facilities overview BISS Puxi offers a comprehensive campus with dedicated spaces for Early Years through Upper Secondary. The sports facilities include two indoor gymnasiums, a 20m indoor swimming pool, a track and field athletics space, China's first all-weather rugby pitch, outdoor basketball courts, five tennis courts, a dance studio and a fitness suite, and an 11-a-side all-weather football pitch. The classrooms are fully connected with wireless access and air filtration, and they include interactive whiteboards. The Learning Centre provides a library and online resources for students and parents. The school runs two STEAM centres, one for Primary and one for Secondary, with science laboratories, 3D printers, and dedicated engineering spaces; there are ten PC labs and four Apple Mac suites, plus a music technology centre and cinema and film studio.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school provides premier sporting facilities including a swimming pool, a sports hall, astro turf, tennis courts, and basketball and netball courts.	Sports facilities All sports are catered for. The facilities include two indoor gymnasiums, a 20m indoor swimming pool, a track and field athletics space, China's first all-weather rugby pitch, outdoor basketball courts, five tennis courts, a dance studio and a fitness suite, and an 11-a-side all-weather football pitch. The Lions compete at a high level within the Shanghai Schools Sports network, through ACAMIS competitions for international schools across China and FOBISIA competitions across Asia.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school provides state-of-the-art classrooms, specialist science and technology rooms, a library, ICT suites and a 250-seat theatre.	Academic facilities The Learning Centre offers a range of spaces, hundreds of books and interactive learning resources, with access to the latest technology; parents can loan books. There are two dedicated STEAM centres for Primary and Secondary, with specialist laboratories for chemistry, biology and physics and a dedicated practical room in the Primary building. The classrooms are equipped with wireless connectivity and interactive whiteboards, and the spaces feature air filtration. The campus includes ten PC labs and four Apple Mac suites, a music technology centre, cinema and film studio facilities.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a broad programme of after-school activities, with over 100 co-curricular activities available weekly, including sports, arts, languages and expeditions.	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a broad range of extracurricular activities across sports, performing arts, STEAM and global citizenship. The Juilliard-Nord Anglia Performing Arts Programme enriches learning in music, dance and drama, with Juilliard hosting workshops and providing teacher development. The MIT collaboration supports STEAM through project based learning, with two STEAM centres and access to advanced equipment. UNICEF collaboration engages students with the Sustainable Development Goals and models United Nations activities, including opportunities to travel to New York for events and participation in Model United Nations. The IMG Academy partnership provides elite coaching for sports and wellbeing, with teachers also benefiting from professional development. Amazing expeditions include local, national and international trips such as citizenship expeditions to Tanzania and trips to Switzerland, along with year group expeditions and service projects.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Britannica International School, Shanghai opened in 2013 and is part of the Orbital Education group, a UK-headquartered organisation that owns and operates a network of British-style international schools. Orbital Education — founded by Kevin McNeany — established Britannica as a British-owned and managed school and provides governance and operational support from its UK office. In its first year the school registered as a Cambridge International School and soon thereafter began graduating its first IGCSE cohort (milestones and early accreditations are recorded on the school site). The school's public materials note a sequence of curriculum and accreditation developments in the years after opening that shaped its early history.	History The British International School Shanghai (Puxi) was established in 2004 and is part of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools. Over the following years the Puxi campus was expanded (a secondary building was added in 2008) and a larger secondary campus was officially opened in 2011. Governance, admissions and shared programmes are managed within the Nord Anglia network, so the school's development has been closely linked to that organisation's operations in China.
Community	Community The school describes a multicultural student body and emphasizes language and cultural programmes as part of school life; recent communications highlight an expanding World Languages programme, language fairs and cultural celebrations that involve students and families. Termly events and seasonal occasions — for example concerts and end-of-term celebrations cited in the school's news archive — are used as community gatherings where families and staff interact. Britannica's parent-facing pages and news posts also point to open days and family-facing activities as regular opportunities for community engagement.	Community The school serves an international community with more than 50 nationalities represented among students and families. BISS Puxi participates in Nord Anglia's Global Campus and runs a Social Impact programme that works with partners such as UNICEF and links to wider UN forums; the school also schedules wellbeing seminars and local, national and international student expeditions. Large community events — for example the annual Christmas Fair and community carnival — bring families, students and local visitors together.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The school's publicly available website does not publish a dedicated Parent Teacher Association page or a named PTA committee with officer contacts; instead it provides a Parent Zone with resources for families and an admissions/contact route for parent enquiries. Parent involvement appears in practice through participation in open days, concerts, language and cultural events and other school-wide activities described in the news and events sections. News items and programme descriptions indicate parents are invited to attend term concerts, seasonal celebrations and language/cultural showcases, and the Parent Zone is the primary online resource the school lists for family information. For specific details about a formal PTA (committee structure, meeting schedules, volunteering roles or fundraising groups) the school directs parents to contact the admissions or school office; the Contact Us page gives the school's admissions email and phone number. In short: public web materials show active family engagement via events and the Parent Zone but do not provide a public PTA constitution or committee list — you may want to contact admissions to request current PTA details or to learn how to join parent groups.	Parent teacher association The Puxi campus maintains an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA) that organises community-facing events, commonly cited examples being the Welcome Back Party, the Christmas Fair and an International Food Evening. The PTA also supports a New Parent Programme to help families arriving in Shanghai and operates a Room Parent network (class-level volunteers who coordinate communications, reading helpers and small social activities). PTA volunteers typically run stalls and fundraising activities at fairs, help co-ordinate year-group socials and support staff-appreciation and classroom initiatives; the school's Parent Essentials pages and newsletters are used to publicise PTA activities and recruit volunteers. The PTA's events therefore serve both social and fundraising roles and are a regular channel for parents to engage with school life and with one another.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Britannica Shanghai follows the English National Curriculum for students aged 18 months to 18 years and is part of the Orbital Education group. It offers an A-Level Programme that follows the English National Curriculum, with students typically studying three to four subjects during a two-year A-Level course, supporting progression to higher education. The school emphasises small class sizes to identify, nurture, and celebrate excellence in each child.	Academic & intellectual BISS Puxi offers IGCSE (Upper Secondary) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with an A-level pathway introduced in 2025. An IB Bridging Programme supports a smooth transition from IGCSE to IB. All students complete the Duke of Edinburgh International Award and receive university guidance from a dedicated Higher Education team. In 2025, 52% of IGCSE grades were A/A*, and graduates have progressed to top universities including Oxford, Yale, Imperial College London, KAIST, and UC Berkeley.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Co-curricular Programme provides a broad range of activities, with over 140 after-school options including robotics, cooking club, and drama.	Arts & creative Lower Secondary follows the National Curriculum for England with emphasis on the Performing Arts and STEAM. The IGCSE and IB frameworks provide opportunities for creative study and cross‑curricular inquiry. The IB Diploma Programme fosters inquiry-based learning and personal growth, supporting creative and interdisciplinary approaches.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The World Language Programme offers native language lessons in Mandarin, Korean, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Hebrew and Portuguese, delivered by specialist native-speaking teachers.	Cultural & language Languages taught in Primary include English, Mandarin (native and as a foreign language), Korean, French, Spanish, German, and Dutch. This supports developing cross-cultural communication and a global perspective within the school's international framework.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Over 140 after-school activities enable students to explore interests outside the classroom, including robotics, cooking, and drama.	Social & hobbies Students participate in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award. Leadership opportunities exist through student-led initiatives such as ‘Becoming Leaders,' and through house leadership structures that organise events across the school.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh Award incorporates community service components. The IB Diploma Programme also emphasizes community involvement and personal growth as part of its core expectations.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional A dedicated Higher Education team provides guidance on university applications. Leadership development is integrated into the curriculum through student leadership roles and programs such as ‘Becoming Leaders.'
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Yoga is among the co-curricular activities, supporting student wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Lower Secondary emphasizes sport and physical education as part of the curriculum, with a focus on well-being and balanced learning through STEAM and the Performing Arts. The school's approach supports a healthy, holistic educational experience.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses English as the language of instruction and places English fluency at the centre of learning, with English as an Additional Language support for non-native speakers. Mandarin is a mandatory subject for Early Years through KS3 and is offered as an option for IGCSE and A Level; in Early Years, Primary and KS3 Mandarin is taught daily, and Secondary students have four Mandarin lessons per week for examination courses. The World Languages Programme provides native-language lessons in Mandarin, Korean, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese and Hebrew, taught by specialist native-speaking teachers. A Native Language Programme supports native Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, French, Italian, Spanish, Hebrew or Portuguese speakers from Reception onward.	Language provision The international primary curriculum follows the English National Curriculum, adapted through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). Mandarin is taught in the primary years with native and non-native provision; beginners start learning and progress toward YCT and HSK tests. Enrichment opportunities include native and non-native Mandarin, French, German and Spanish. In Key Stage 3, students study two languages of their choice from Mandarin, Korean, French, German, Spanish and Dutch, and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme is available for non-native English speakers.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards For the five-year period covering 31 December 2021–31 December 2025 the school website does not list conventional standalone "school award" wins (for example "School of the Year" style awards) other than external accreditations/quality marks and one-off recognitions reported in its news posts. I searched the school site's news and accreditations pages and found the following external recognitions given to the school during that period (these are awarded to the school, not individual students): - COBIS re-accreditation (18 November 2025) — re‑accreditation by the Council of British International Schools, reported as the outcome of a 2025 inspection (this is an external accreditation/re-accreditation reported in the school's news). - Primary Geography Quality Mark (reaccreditation, September 2023) — the Geographical Association's Primary Geography Quality Mark was reaccredited to the school, recognising the quality and impact of its primary geography curriculum. - ALFRI / Bell Foundation EAL accreditation (March 2022) — Language for Results International (ALFRI/Bell Foundation) accreditation for the school's EAL provision; reported on the school site as an external accreditation/quality mark. - SAT testing centre accreditation (18 November 2022) — the school reports it became an accredited SAT test centre, enabling on‑site administration of the SAT for students applying to US universities. Other recognitions on the school site in that time window: the school was shortlisted for the TES International School Awards 2025 (Curriculum Initiative of the Year) — that item is a shortlisting/nomination reported in November 2025, not a winning award on the school site, so I have not listed it as a win. If you would like, I can: - extract the exact dates and full text of each news item or accreditation report; or - check external organisation sites (COBIS, CIS, Geographical Association, Bell Foundation, College Board) for their official statements/reports about the school (useful if you want independent verification beyond the school site).	Awards (Only awards shown on the school's website and awarded to the school itself, within the past five years.) • COBIS "Beacon Status" (renewal of COBIS accreditation) — Announced 20 August 2025: the school reports that it successfully renewed COBIS accreditation and was awarded Beacon Status, a recognition given by COBIS when a school's accreditation outcomes are exemplary in key areas (teaching and learning, leadership, student welfare, etc.). • Nord Anglia Education Social Impact Bronze Certificate — Announced 21 August 2025: Nord Anglia awarded the school a Social Impact Bronze Certificate for embedding the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child into its programmes and practice. This is an internal Nord Anglia recognition of the school's progress on social-impact work. • Pearson / Edexcel — Pioneer Award and 10th Anniversary Award (for the school) — Referenced 29 November 2023: the school's news item states that at a Pearson awards ceremony the school was to receive two awards for the school itself (the "Pioneer Award" for having students with outstanding results, and a "10th Anniversary Award"). These awards are noted on the school website as recognition from the examination board.
Accreditations	Accreditations Below are the accreditations and external quality marks listed on the school's website, each with a one-line explanation of what it is and why it matters (source: Britannica International School – Accreditations and related news pages). - COBIS (Council of British International Schools) — COBIS membership/accreditation indicates the school meets standards of British international schooling and is part of a UK-based quality-assurance and professional network for British international schools. - BSO (British Schools Overseas) — BSO is an inspection scheme run via the UK Department for Education for British-style schools abroad; a BSO inspection confirms the school meets standards comparable to independent schools in England. - CIS (Council of International Schools) — CIS accreditation is an international quality-assurance process showing the school meets recognised standards for international education, global citizenship and continuous improvement. - Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge International) — recognition/approval to deliver Cambridge qualifications (IGCSEs etc.), which are widely recognised international academic qualifications. - Pearson Edexcel — approval to deliver Pearson/Edexcel qualifications (GCSEs/A‑levels), indicating the school is authorised to offer these internationally recognised exam programmes. - ALFRI / Bell Foundation accreditation for EAL (Language for Results International) — an external accreditation that evaluates and recognises the quality of provision for learners who use English as an additional language (EAL). - Primary Geography Quality Mark (Geographical Association) — an external quality mark recognising high standards in geography leadership, curriculum development and teaching in the primary phase. - The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award (DofE) — the school is registered to deliver the DofE programme, indicating it runs the internationally recognised youth development programme for Bronze/Silver/Gold participation. - SAT testing centre accreditation (College Board/SAT) — the school is an accredited on‑campus SAT test centre, meaning students can take the SAT at the school site for US university admissions. Note: these entries are taken from the school's official accreditations page and related news items on the Britannica International School (Shanghai) website. The accreditations page lists BSO, COBIS, Cambridge, Edexcel, DofE, ALFRI (Bell Foundation) and the Geographical Association quality mark; separate news posts confirm LFRI/ALFRI (March 2022), SAT testing centre status (Nov 18, 2022), the Primary Geography Quality Mark reaccreditation (Sep 2023) and a COBIS re-accreditation news item (Nov 18, 2025).	Accreditations • Council of British International Schools (COBIS) — Listed by the school as an accrediting body; COBIS accreditation indicates the school has met externally reviewed standards for British-style international schools (teaching, safeguarding and governance). • International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO / IB Diploma Programme authorisation) — The school is an authorised IB Diploma Programme provider; IB authorisation confirms the school meets the IBO's curricular and quality requirements for offering the IBDP. • Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge international/IGCSE centre) — The school prepares students for Cambridge qualifications (IGCSEs); Cambridge recognition means the school is approved to enter students for these internationally recognised examinations. • Pearson Edexcel (Edexcel examination board) — The school is recognised by the Edexcel (Pearson) examination board for IGCSE/GCSE entries; this means it is authorised to register and enter students with Edexcel and to participate in Edexcel assessment programmes.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquiry and school tour — Start by contacting the Admissions team to request an enquiry, book a tour or join an open day so you and your child can see the campus and meet staff. During this visit the admissions staff will discuss your child's needs, explain the curriculum, transport and routines, and introduce you to the Principal or Head of Phase; use the visit to check whether the school's organisation and timetables fit your family logistics. If you are overseas the school can arrange a virtual tour and a meeting with the relevant head of phase. 2. Complete the online application and upload documents — When you decide to apply you must submit the online application form and upload the specified documents: child's birth certificate, child and parent passports, child and parent residence permits/work permits, recent school report, immunisation record, medical insurance card and a passport photo. The admissions portal stays open for your admissions journey so you can upload documents and track progress, but you cannot edit submitted forms after signing. Note: if a year group is already full and you meet entry requirements, the school will place the child on the waiting list only once the registration fee has been paid. 3. Assessment and second visit — After the application and paperwork are received the school arranges a formal assessment and usually a meeting with the Principal (or relevant Head) to evaluate academic readiness, communication and social interaction. Assessment format depends on age: EYFS children have informal observations (and sometimes a trial day), Years 1–9 typically sit a non-verbal reasoning (NVR) test (with additional drawing assessments in early primary), Years 10–11 have NVR plus English and Maths assessments, and Years 12–13 require evidence of prior externally accredited results (IGCSE equivalence). The Admissions Policy says assessment outcomes and any observed support needs will be discussed with parents; if further evidence is needed the school may invite a trial day or ask for more school reports. 4. Offer, registration and deposit — If the child meets the school's entry criteria and passes the assessment, the Principal issues an offer. To accept a place you will be asked to pay a non-refundable registration fee and an enrolment deposit; the standard registration fee and the deposit amounts and terms are published in the school fees schedule (the 2025–26 fees document shows a RMB 2,500 registration fee and a RMB 20,000 enrolment deposit that is credited against the next term's tuition). The admissions documents and the school's admissions policy explain timing: registration and deposit secure the place, the deposit is refundable subject to the school's refund and notice conditions, and full fee payment deadlines are specified in the fees schedule.	Admissions 1. Make an enquiry. Parents should have the child's preferred start year and any deadlines or sponsor (company) billing details ready, because the admissions team will ask for these during first contact. (Source: school admissions pages and contact details). 2. Discover the school (tour / virtual meeting). The school will offer a campus tour or a virtual discovery meeting; for Early Years, Primary or Secondary you may meet a member of the Senior Leadership Team or a relevant phase lead. Use this meeting to ask about class sizes, the curriculum pathway (National Curriculum → IGCSE → IB) and any specific support needs your child may have. Bring a copy of recent school reports and a list of questions about wrap‑around care, transport and extra‑curricular programmes. 3. Complete the application. Parents complete the online application form and upload supporting documents: passport details, medical records, and school reports (the school requests recent reports — commonly the last two years). An application fee is payable at submission (the published non‑refundable application fee is RMB 3,500); keep the payment receipt and include the child's name and year group when you pay. Depending on the child's age, references and additional paperwork may also be requested at this stage. 4. Assessment and references. The school requires an age‑appropriate assessment: Early Years candidates typically join an in‑class assessment with their peer group, while older children sit written or verbal assessments appropriate to the year they join. For specialist scholarships or sports/music places, the school may ask for audition evidence, portfolios or trial sessions; you will be given clear instructions if this applies. Make sure any previous school recommendations or external certificates (e.g., music grades, club records) are ready because they can be requested. 5. Application review and decision. Once the application and assessments are completed, the Head of School and admissions team review the materials and will contact you with the outcome and next steps; the school estimates this process can often be completed within about two weeks but timing depends on how quickly you provide documents. If a place is offered, the offer letter will detail the fees and the deadline to accept. If you are on short notice (for example, moving city), state this to admissions so they can advise on timelines and availability. 6. Accepting the place: fees and deposits. To secure an offered place parents pay the non‑refundable enrolment fee (published at RMB 4,000) and the resourcing/resource fee (published at RMB 16,000). The school's published wording shows the resource fee is refundable when a student leaves (subject to conditions) but also notes a cancellation charge of RMB 16,000 applies to a new student who does not attend after a place has been reserved — parents should confirm how these rules will apply to their specific payment. Read the offer letter carefully and keep copies of all receipts. 7. Payment, start dates and practical checks. The school accepts payment by electronic bank transfer or cheque in USD, HKD, GBP or RMB (cash only in RMB); if paying by transfer, send a copy of the bank remittance with the child's name and year group. Note the published deadline: all winter term and any annual fees are due by 30 May each year — confirm exact due dates on your offer and invoice. Before the first day ensure medical records and any required forms are submitted and that uniform and lunch arrangements have been made. 8. Withdrawal and refunds. If you later need to withdraw you must submit the official withdrawal form in writing (the school requires six weeks' notice) and follow the school's withdrawal procedures to be eligible for any refunds; the resourcing fee is refundable only once accounts are settled and school property returned undamaged. If the six‑week notice is not given, fees are charged in lieu of notice; for new students who do not take up a reserved place the school publishes a cancellation charge (RMB 16,000). If anything in the offer or fee schedule is unclear, request written confirmation from admissions/finance.
Scholarships	Scholarships The school has run scholarship opportunities in the past (examples published on the school website include a 2019 Secondary Scholarship Day offering up to 100% scholarships for some secondary entry years and a 2019 announcement of a 50% tuition scholarship for certain Year 10 and Year 12 entrants). Those items are event/news postings from 2019 and describe specific, time‑limited scholarship campaigns rather than a standing, published scholarship programme. The current Admissions and Fees pages do not present an ongoing, school‑wide scholarship scheme, and there is no separate, regularly updated scholarships page on the site; therefore, if you are interested in any scholarship or fee‑assistance options you should contact the Admissions office directly (admissions@britannicashanghai.com or +86 21 6402 7889) to request the latest information and to ask whether any assessments or scholarship days are being offered at the moment.	Scholarships Overview and eligibility. BISS Puxi publishes a scholarship programme open to new students joining Years 5–12 with five categories: Academic, Leadership, Performing Arts, STEAM and Sport. Applications are accepted at any time; the published process requires completion of a scholarship application form, review by a Scholarship Committee, and may include an interview and requests for supporting evidence (portfolios, certificates, trial sessions). Successful applicants are notified following the Committee's decision and the school states there are typically up to five awards each year (one per scholarship category), although additional awards may be made at the committee's discretion. How scholarships work and financial detail. The website states scholarship recipients receive a tuition discount; the page contains inconsistent statements about the maximum discount (the “Key Facts” section says “Up to a 25% discount” while the FAQs later state “this can be up to 50%”). Because the published wording is contradictory, you should ask the admissions or finance team for the current scholarship value, its duration (which years it covers), any conditions attached to the award, and how it is applied to invoicing. Scholarships are awarded for demonstrated ability or potential in the chosen area and the award level (partial discount and the percentage) is decided by the Scholarship Committee. Application steps and practical notes. To apply complete the scholarship application form on the school website, include a short personal statement (the school prefers the student to write this for Years 5–6 but parents may assist), and provide supporting evidence when requested. The Scholarship Committee reviews applications and may invite candidates for interview; decisions are communicated promptly (the page states notification is within two working days following the Committee meeting). Because of the inconsistency in the published discount maximum, confirm the timing of application windows (the site says applications are accepted any time) and whether a scholarship affects the enrolment/enrolment‑fee or resourcing‑fee rules.
Waitlist	Waitlist Britannica operates a waiting list if a year group is full: applicants who meet the entry requirements are placed on the waiting list provided the registration fee has been paid. Priority on the waiting list is explicitly set out in the Admissions Policy: siblings of current students, returning students, sister‑school children, staff children and native first‑language English speakers receive priority, followed by other applicants based on completion of the admission process. The Admissions Policy and fees documents also state that an enrolment deposit (paid on acceptance) guarantees a place once paid and that families may register up to a year in advance subject to completing the full admissions process. For exact position on the list and timing you should confirm with the Admissions team, as places are reallocated if fees are unpaid before term start.	Waitlist The school's public pages do not describe a formal, published “waiting‑list/pool” mechanism. Admissions information states applications are accepted throughout the year but that places are subject to availability; there is no clear public description of how candidates are prioritised on a waitlist or whether an automated waitlist is used. Given that spaces can be limited, the practical approach is to submit the application and required documents as early as possible and to tell admissions if you require a place urgently; admissions can confirm whether they operate an active waitlist and where your child stands. If you want a definitive answer about waitlist procedures for a specific year group, ask admissions directly (admissions@bisspuxi.com) so they can confirm current practice and any internal queueing rules.
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