Dulwich College Beijing and The British School of Beijing Shunyi are both in Beijing, about 20 km apart. Both schools offer British, Cambridge IGCSE and IB programmes. Dulwich College Beijing also offers Cambridge A Levels, and The British School of Beijing Shunyi also offers EYFS and German. Published annual fees are RMB 245,000 - 373,000 at Dulwich College Beijing and RMB 165,000 - 361,100 at The British School of Beijing Shunyi, which puts Dulwich College Beijing roughly 17% higher. Dulwich College Beijing takes pupils from 3 to 18, and The British School of Beijing Shunyi from 1.5 to 18. Dulwich College Beijing is the larger school, with around 1,600 pupils to The British School of Beijing Shunyi's 1,100. Typical class sizes are 18 at Dulwich College Beijing and 11 at The British School of Beijing Shunyi.
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Dulwich College Beijing
Beijing, China
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The British School of Beijing Shunyi
Beijing, China
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Fees / year
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Fees / year RMB 245,000 - 373,000 | Fees / year RMB 165,000 - 361,100 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 1½ - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP), Cambridge A Levels | Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), German Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,600 | Pupils 1,100 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 18 | Typical class size 11 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English, German |
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Opened
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Opened 2005 | Opened 2009 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Dulwich College Beijing is on Capital Airport Road in the Shunyi district, close to many expatriate residential compounds and a 20–40 minute drive from central Beijing depending on traffic. The school lists its main campus address as 89 Capital Airport Road, Shunyi District. | Location The school is situated at No. 9 An Hua Street in the Shunyi District, a popular suburban area approximately 25 kilometers northeast of central Beijing. This neighbourhood is often described as an "expat oasis," known for its family-friendly residential compounds and proximity to the Capital International Airport. |
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Stages
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Stages The College is an all‑through international school: DUCKS (early years) for ages 3–7, Junior School for primary years, and Senior School for Years 7–13 (up to age 18). Entry guidance and age-placement information are provided on the admissions pages. | Stages The school is divided into Early Years (ages 18 months to 5 years), Primary School (ages 5 to 11), and Secondary School (ages 11 to 18). The Secondary stage culminates in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for students aged 16 to 18. |
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School type
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School type Dulwich College Beijing is a private, co‑educational day school following British/international curricula; it offers IGCSE and the IB Diploma (and from 2025 an A‑level option). The school does not advertise on‑site, long‑term boarding for its regular cohorts (the IB/official listings record ‘day' boarding status). | School type The British School of Beijing, Shunyi is a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support The College runs an EAL (English as an Additional Language) programme and a Learning Support team; EAL teachers work across year groups and the school publishes staff and role descriptions for learning‑support posts. Admissions consider additional learning needs on a case‑by‑case basis and the school provides in‑class or small‑group support where appropriate. | Additional learning support The school offers dedicated assistance through its Learning Support and English as an Additional Language (EAL) departments. The EAL programme helps students access the English-taught curriculum through personalised support, which can range from one-on-one tutoring to integrated in-class assistance. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation The school is part of the Dulwich College International group and follows a British international school model; it is based in China rather than affiliated to a religious organisation or to a foreign government. | Country affiliation The school is affiliated with the British education system, following the English National Curriculum and offering IGCSEs. Uniquely, it also provides a German Primary Programme for native German speakers to study core subjects in their home language. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Dulwich College Beijing does not present itself as a faith school; no formal religious affiliation is stated in its public materials. | Religious affiliation The school does not have a religious affiliation and welcomes families from all cultural and religious backgrounds. |
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School day structure
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School day structure Daily timetables differ by division (early years, primary, secondary). Public pages describe registration, morning lessons, a midday lunch break and afternoon lessons, but the school's published website/parent handbook should be consulted for exact start/finish times for each division and current term schedules. For precise daily hours ask Admissions or refer to the Parent Handbook. | School day structure The school day typically begins with registration around 8:25 am, with lessons starting at 8:40 am. The day concludes at 3:30 pm, after which students may depart or attend optional co-curricular activities. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details The College operates an extensive school‑bus programme with routes covering Shunyi and downtown Beijing; the site notes more than 30 routes and professional bus monitors who work with drivers under the school's safeguarding and H&S policies. The admissions section lists annual and termly bus fees (separate rates for Shunyi vs downtown routes) and advises families on how to apply for bus service. } | Bus service details An optional bus service is available for students, covering major residential compounds in Shunyi and downtown Beijing. Regular buses depart the school at 3:40 pm, and a late bus service is available for Secondary students participating in after-school activities. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fees - Application Fee: RMB 2,900 (one-off, non-refundable, non-transferable). - Placement Deposit: RMB 18,000 (refundable subject to the College's terms and conditions; non-transferable). - Capital Development Fee (new students only): RMB 15,000 (one-time, non-refundable). Tuition fees (2025/2026) — annual and per-term - Nursery: Annual RMB 245,000; Per term RMB 85,800. - Reception: Annual RMB 245,000; Per term RMB 85,800. - Years 1–2: Annual RMB 297,000; Per term RMB 104,000. - Years 3–6: Annual RMB 323,000; Per term RMB 113,100. - Years 7–9: Annual RMB 343,000; Per term RMB 120,100. - Years 10–11: Annual RMB 362,000; Per term RMB 126,700. - Years 12–13: Annual RMB 373,000; Per term RMB 130,600 — note: Year 13 fees must be paid annually. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition may be paid annually or by term (exception: Year 13 must be paid annually). Annual payment attracts a more favourable rate. Each term's tuition and other sums are due before the beginning of the College term. The College may require annual payment in cases of repeated late termly payments. Families with three or more children enrolled in full-day programmes receive a 5% discount per student. Boarding fees - Dulwich College Beijing is a co-educational day school; boarding is not applicable. Other costs and charges - School bus service: Zone A (Downtown) Annual RMB 23,000 / Per term RMB 8,100; Zone B (Shunyi) Annual RMB 17,010 / Per term RMB 6,000. - School lunch: optional and not included in tuition; charged separately. Uniforms: required (except Years 12–13) and purchased via the School Uniform Order System. Optional trip fees, exam charges included in tuition; miscellaneous charges may apply. Late payment administration charge: RMB 1,000 per reminder. Official tax receipts (Fapiao) issued for fee payments (deposit excluded). Refund information and withdrawal notice - A full term's tuition is payable for any term in which the student attends (in part or whole) or if inadequate withdrawal notice is given. Withdrawal notice deadlines: 15 Oct for withdrawal in/at Term 2; 31 Jan for withdrawal in/at Term 3; 1 Apr for withdrawal at end of Term 3 or for Term 1 of following year. Refund schedule examples are set out in the Terms and Conditions (annual and term refund percentages vary by notice date). The Placement Deposit may be used to offset unpaid fees and is refundable in accordance with withdrawal and refund policies. Fee payment options - Accepted methods: bank transfers in RMB or USD, and cash payments (RMB only). Bank account details appear on invoices; when paying by USD wire transfer, the College requests use of the People's Bank of China approved RMB/USD middle exchange rate at time of payment. If a payment in foreign currency results in a shortfall the parent/guardian is liable for that shortfall. Credit card payment is not listed as a standard option in the fee schedule. | Fee details Application and Registration Application Fee: RMB 2,500. This is a non-refundable fee required with every application submitted. Security Deposit: RMB 16,000. This is payable to secure a school place once the student has been accepted. Tuition Fees The tuition fees are payable annually or split by term. The termly breakdown is as follows: Pre-Nursery (Mornings): Autumn Term: RMB 66,000 Spring Term: RMB 49,500 Summer Term: RMB 49,500 Full Year Total: RMB 165,000 Pre-Nursery (Full Day), Nursery and Reception Autumn Term: RMB 99,000 Spring Term: RMB 74,000 Summer Term: RMB 74,000 Full Year Total: RMB 247,000 Year 1 and Year 2 Autumn Term: RMB 117,600 Spring Term: RMB 88,000 Summer Term: RMB 88,000 Full Year Total: RMB 293,600 Year 3 Autumn Term: RMB 123,000 Spring Term: RMB 92,000 Summer Term: RMB 92,000 Full Year Total: RMB 307,000 Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6 Autumn Term: RMB 124,600 Spring Term: RMB 93,400 Summer Term: RMB 93,400 Full Year Total: RMB 311,400 Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 Autumn Term: RMB 132,400 Spring Term: RMB 99,300 Summer Term: RMB 99,300 Full Year Total: RMB 331,000 Year 10 and Year 11 Autumn Term: RMB 141,400 Spring Term: RMB 105,900 Summer Term: RMB 105,900 Full Year Total: RMB 353,200 Year 12 and Year 13 Autumn Term: RMB 144,500 Spring Term: RMB 108,300 Summer Term: RMB 108,300 Full Year Total: RMB 361,100 Additional Costs EAL Charge: A one-off charge of RMB 20,000 applies to students required to join additional English support lessons. Bus Service: Optional service arranged on request. Annual fees range from RMB 17,000 to RMB 21,200 depending on distance. Uniform: All students must wear the uniform and P.E. kit, which can be purchased from the school uniform shop. Examinations: Fees for Year 10 and above include entrance fees for examinations in accordance with the curriculum. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms Due Dates: Tuition fees must be paid on or before the first day of the academic year or term. Early Bird Discount: A discount applies if the full year fees are paid by 6th June 2025. This discount becomes invalid if a student withdraws during the year. Payment Methods: Payments can be made via bank transfer to the school's Bank of China account. If paying in foreign currency, the exchange rate is based on the Bank of China middle rate at the time of payment, and all bank charges must be borne by the remitter. Refund Information Security Deposit: Fully refundable when the student leaves the school, provided all accounts are settled, school property is returned, and required written notice is submitted. Application Fee: Non-refundable. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement Uniform is worn by Nursery to Year 11; Year 12 and 13 follow a business dress code. The uniform is designed with seasonal variants for warm and cold weather. | Uniform requirement The school enforces a strict uniform policy where all students from Early Years to Year 11 are required to wear the official school uniform, which must be kept neat, tidy, and clearly labelled with the student's name. Students in the Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13) are exempt from the standard uniform but must adhere to a "business smart" dress code, wearing professional attire such as suits to set a positive example for younger pupils. |
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Food options
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Food options A lunch program is available; students may bring lunch or pay for Sodexo-provided meals. | Food options The school provides a comprehensive lunch service prepared fresh on-site by an in-house catering team led by an experienced Head Chef, ensuring nutritious and high-quality meals for all students. The menu changes monthly to offer a diverse range of options, including Western, Chinese, and other international cuisines, and features special "International Lunch Days" every Wednesday to introduce students to global flavours. The kitchen is fully equipped to handle specific dietary requirements, including allergies and religious restrictions, with all beef, lamb, and chicken served being certified Halal. |
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House system
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House system In Senior School, there is a House System that fosters belonging, friendly competitions, leadership opportunities, and responsibilities for older students mentoring younger ones. | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is part of Education in Motion (EiM) and is governed by Dulwich College Management International Limited (DCMI). EiM identifies Dulwich College as the founding school. | Governance and ownership Part of the Nord Anglia Education family. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) uses a play- and inquiry-based Early Years programme (DUCKS) and follows the Early Years Foundation Stage up to age 5, with a dual-language (English–Mandarin) approach for young learners. From Year 1 through Year 9 students follow an adapted National Curriculum of England delivered via a topic-based, cross‑curricular Junior School with specialist lessons in Mandarin, PE, art, design technology and music. Students in Years 10–11 follow a two‑year IGCSE programme, and Years 12–13 study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme; the school also indicates that A‑Level courses will be available as an option from 2025. Instruction is primarily in English, supplemented by structured Mandarin pathways for native and non‑native speakers and EAL support across the school. The curriculum is rounded out by specialist STEAM and liberal‑arts strands and extensive co‑curricular activities designed to develop skills beyond academic assessment. | Curriculum details The school follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for its youngest students, moving into the English National Curriculum for Primary and Lower Secondary education. Uniquely, the school offers a German Primary Programme that allows native German speakers to study core subjects in their home language alongside the English curriculum. At the Upper Secondary level (ages 14-16), students prepare for and sit the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations. For the final two years in the Sixth Form (ages 16-18), the school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) as its pre-university qualification. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) describes SEL as part of its Student Wellbeing Framework, which emphasises students feeling Connected, Respected and Empowered and is embedded across the curriculum. The school teaches seven Dulwich Values (respect, resilience, confidence, kindness, responsibility, integrity and open‑mindedness) and uses the House system to build belonging, leadership and collaboration. Junior School runs a bespoke Wellbeing Curriculum with Mindful Mornings, while Senior School has a Deputy Head of Senior School (Wellbeing) who oversees the Elevate programme for study skills, motivation and confidence. Students are involved directly as Wellbeing Prefects/Champions and the school runs Parent Academies and provides access to the Tooled Up Education resource for families. These initiatives and roles are described on the DCB Wellbeing pages. | Social & emotional learning The school integrates social development into its daily life through a "Behaviour and Social Graces" (BSG) programme, which emphasizes respect, good manners, and positive self-expression. In Primary School, the PAWS system (Positive Behaviour, Academic Achievement, Working Together, Sport) is used to encourage and record student achievements, fostering a strong community spirit. Secondary students engage in a "citizenship and PHSE" (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) programme delivered by their form tutors to support their personal development. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) DCB states that it enrols only students whose learning needs can be met by the services the school provides and that the Admissions team will consult families and review previous reports as part of the assessment process. The school's Admissions information says it will request all relevant documentation and conduct assessments to determine appropriate support and placement. DCB lists staff with roles in learning support (for example named Junior School Learning Support staff and assistant teachers supporting English and additional educational needs). The website does not present DCB as a specialist SEN institution; instead it indicates inclusion where needs can be met by its provision. For full details about specific therapies, diagnoses supported or specialist placements, families are asked to contact Admissions directly. | Special educational needs (SEN) The school employs a dedicated Student Support Team that works with class teachers and external specialists to assist students with additional educational requirements. While the school can cater to mild to moderate needs on a case-by-case basis, it is not a specialist SEN institution and may require assessments during the admissions process to ensure they can meet a child's specific needs. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The school publishes descriptions of EAL provision across age groups: DUCKS and Junior School pages describe in‑class EAL support, targeted small‑group sessions, preview/review strategies and use of translanguaging. DCB's communications note a Junior School EAL team (the site describes a team of EAL teachers working across year groups) and named leads involved in coordinating EAL provision. Admissions guidance also states the school can support a percentage of non‑native English speakers and may assess applicants' readiness for the academic programme. For specifics about levels of EAL support, staffing ratios or formal placement tests, the site asks families to contact the school or Admissions. | English as an additional language The school offers a comprehensive EAL programme delivered from a dedicated "EAL Hub" to ensure non-native speakers can fully access the English-taught curriculum. This support uses structured courses based on the Cambridge English Programme, with students grouped by ability and assessed regularly using CEFR-aligned tests to track progress. A one-off fee applies for students who are required to join this additional support programme. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing DCB's wellbeing material links mental wellbeing to its broader Student Wellbeing Framework and lists curriculum and school‑wide measures such as mindfulness in Junior School, the Elevate programme in Senior School, and student wellbeing leadership roles. The College also names dedicated counselling and social‑emotional staff on its community pages (for example Senior School and Junior School social‑emotional counsellors and other school counsellors listed on the staff directory). The school describes parent partnership through Parent Academies and access to the Tooled Up Education platform as part of its mental wellbeing support. For specifics about counselling referral processes, session frequency or external specialist referrals the website directs parents to contact the school for details. | Mental wellbeing Student wellbeing is a primary priority, managed by a robust pastoral structure that includes class teachers in Primary and Form Tutors in Secondary. The Secondary School has a dedicated "Assistant Head of Secondary – Pastoral" who oversees student welfare, alongside university counsellors who support older students with future planning. The school emphasizes a close-knit community experience where staff are trained to identify and respond swiftly to social and emotional needs. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding DCB states safeguarding and child protection are of paramount importance and outlines a child‑centred approach based on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The school describes a rigorous, regularly reviewed Safeguarding Policy, mandatory staff safeguarding training, whole‑college and school‑level designated safeguarding leads, and a Speak Out and Stay Safe reporting initiative. A downloadable Safeguarding Policy is linked from the school's Safeguarding page for parents and staff to review. For the school's full policy text and the named Designated Safeguarding Lead(s), please consult the Safeguarding page and linked policy on the DCB website. | Safeguarding The school strictly adheres to the UK statutory guidance "Keeping Children Safe in Education" and follows rigorous "International Child Protection Standards." A dedicated team, led by a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and supported by Deputy DSLs in both Primary and Secondary schools, oversees all child protection matters. All staff undergo strict recruitment vetting and are required to recognize and report any concerns regarding student safety immediately. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview Dulwich College Beijing provides spaces designed to support intellectual, physical, social and emotional development. The campus features two sports domes, a multi‑purpose sports hall, six tennis courts, a FIFA two‑star rated football pitch, a natural grass rugby pitch and Beijing's only cricket pitch for students. Performing Arts facilities include the Wodehouse Theatre (602 seats) and the Edward Alleyn Theatre (300 seats), two Black Box theatres, spacious music rooms, an ICT suite for music production, a radio studio, art rooms and three libraries with access to over 70,000 resources. There are dedicated spaces for DUCKS, Junior School and Senior School, along with flexible indoor and outdoor spaces to support learning. | Facilities overview The school is located on a purpose-built campus in the Shunyi district, designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for students. Key general facilities include the "Chatter Box" community café and a warm, welcoming dining hall for students and parents. A standout feature is the custom-built, temperature-controlled air dome, which features a powerful filtration system to ensure year-round access to clean-air sporting activities. The campus also houses dedicated libraries for Primary and Secondary students. The Secondary library, built in 2019, serves as a central hub with over 10,000 books, quiet study areas, and integrated technology. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The campus offers extensive sport facilities, including two sports domes, a multi‑purpose sports hall, six tennis courts, a FIFA two‑star rated football pitch, a natural grass rugby pitch and Beijing's only cricket pitch for students. | Sports facilities Facilities include a multi-use indoor sports hall, a 25-metre indoor heated swimming pool (plus a dedicated Early Years pool), indoor basketball courts, a full-size outdoor football pitch, tennis courts, and a dance studio. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Academic facilities include three libraries with access to over 70,000 resources, an ICT suite for music production, a fully equipped radio studio and dedicated art rooms. | Academic facilities The school is equipped with specialist learning environments to support its rigorous curriculum. Classrooms feature interactive whiteboards and are supported by purpose-built computing labs, cutting-edge science laboratories, and design technology (DT) workshops. For creative and technical subjects, students have access to art and photography studios (including a darkroom), a cookery kitchen, and a LEGO Robotics lab with 3D printers. The school also provides an "IB Hub," a dedicated study space designed specifically for International Baccalaureate students to research and collaborate. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities There are over 150 co‑curricular activities each year across categories such as Academic, Creative, Debate and Public Speaking, Performing Arts, Service and Action. Examples include robotics, Model United Nations, music, theatre and sport. Residential trips are offered, and the school is a member of ACAMIS and FOBISIA as well as the Dulwich family of schools. | Extra curricular facilities — |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Dulwich College Beijing opened in 2005 as the second school to join the Dulwich College International family. It was established with formal links to Dulwich College in London and is part of the Education in Motion / Dulwich network; the school's operations sit under the Dulwich group. Since opening the college has grown to educate more than 1,600 students and represents over 30 nationalities. Over time DCB has developed its own day-to-day traditions while drawing on the wider Dulwich heritage and calendar events. | History The school was originally established in 2003 and has since grown to become a leading institution in the region. It is owned and operated by the Nord Anglia Education family, a global network of premium international schools. The school recently celebrated "20 Years of Excellence," marking its long-standing presence in Beijing. Over the years, it has developed significant community traditions, such as the annual Unity Week and International Day, which celebrate the diverse nationalities within the student body. |
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Community
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Community The college community is multicultural and active, with the school marking cultural and calendar events such as Chinese New Year, Christmas, Remembrance Day and an annual Founder's Day that links Dulwich schools worldwide. A house system and structured student leadership (Student Council, head boy/girl and prefects) are used to build belonging and peer mentorship across year groups. Parent volunteers and the Friends of Dulwich contribute clubs, cultural activities and community gatherings that bring families, staff and students together. | Community The school fosters a vibrant community through major cultural events like "Unity Week," where students dress in national colours and participate in cross-cultural learning activities. The "International Day," often the finale of this week, invites the entire community to celebrate with food, booths, and performances. Students also engage in "Week without Walls" residential trips across China to build friendships and cultural understanding. Furthermore, the community is deeply involved in service, with students and families fundraising for local charities such as "Dew Drops Little Flower." |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The school's parent organisation is Friends of Dulwich (FoD), a volunteer-run group whose stated purpose is to connect families with the school and with one another. FoD organises regular activities including New Family Orientation Day and a Friends Welcome Tea, runs teacher appreciation lunches, and supports the appointment of parent representatives to aid communication between families and the College. The group also coordinates community groups and clubs (for example a Culture Club, Connection Lunch and an A Cappella Club) and provides practical support for school events. FoD describes its role as strengthening community ties through volunteering, events and practical support for new families and staff. Participation is voluntary and FoD relies on parent volunteers to plan events, run clubs and support wider school initiatives. | Parent teacher association The Parents' Association (PA) plays an integral role in school life, organizing large-scale events such as the "Winter Fayre and German Market" and the "International Day," which features booths and global cuisine. They actively support student learning by creating educational presentations and videos about different countries during Unity Week. The PTA also arranges special assemblies with cultural performances, such as Chinese puppet shows and dance routines. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school has three divisions: DUCKS (ages 3 to 7), Junior School (ages 7 to 11), and Senior School (ages 11 to 18). In the Senior School, students follow the IGCSE syllabus and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The school publishes IGCSE and IB results and university placements. | Academic & intellectual — |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative — | Arts & creative — |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language The language of instruction is English. Mandarin is a core part of the curriculum; all high school students study Mandarin, with courses offered from complete beginners to native-level speakers. From Year 7, students begin an intensive European Languages programme. The school supports multilingualism through a dedicated Multi-Language Programme and translanguaging practices in DUCKS (early years) that mix English and Mandarin. | Cultural & language — |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies — | Social & hobbies — |
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Community & service
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Community & service — | Community & service — |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional — | Leadership & professional — |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing — | Lifestyle & wellbeing — |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision Translanguaging enables use of English and Mandarin in learning, forming the basis of the program. Mandarin learning expands from Foundation Stage (whole-class Mandarin) to Key Stage One with Academic Mandarin and Life Skills Mandarin in differentiated groups, and progresses to senior levels through IGCSE, IB, and A Level. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for non-native English speakers. A weekly Korean club offers additional language opportunities. | Language provision The school's primary language of instruction is English, supported by a specialized English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme for students who need assistance accessing the curriculum. Mandarin Chinese is a compulsory core subject for all students from Early Years through to Year 13, with classes streamed by ability to cater to everyone from absolute beginners to native speakers. From Year 7, students can expand their linguistic skills by choosing to study French or Spanish as a second foreign language. Additionally, the school supports home language maintenance by offering specialist native-speaker programmes for German students (from Early Years) and Korean students (from Year 7), ensuring they can develop high-level literacy in their mother tongue alongside their English studies. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching The school uses a dual-language programme in DUCKS with English and Mandarin used interchangeably throughout the day (translanguaging). Mandarin learning is led by Dual Language Teachers and additional Chinese teachers and is integrated with Chinese culture from DUCKS through Junior School. The dual-language approach develops Mandarin and English concurrently, with translanguaging at the heart of learning. The EAL team provides targeted support for students who are non-native English speakers. | Bilingual teaching The school offers a dedicated bilingual education pathway through its German Primary Programme for students in Klasse 1 to 4. In this stream, native German speakers are taught core subjects, which includes Mathematics, German, and Topic (Humanities and Science) all in German, strictly following the Thuringian Curriculum from Germany. To ensure full integration and bilingual development, these students join their English-speaking peers for non-core subjects such as Music, Art, and Physical Education, as well as for whole-school assemblies and break times. |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards School-level awards won (as listed on the school website) in the past five years (Jan 1, 2021 — Jan 1, 2026): - British Schools Awards 2021 — Holistic Education Award (received Nov 7, 2021): The school reports it received the British Schools 2021 Holistic Education Award; the page describes this as recognition of the school's whole-child approach and related programmes. - British Schools Awards 2021 — Science & Technology Award (received Nov 7, 2021): The school reports it also received the British Schools 2021 Science and Technology Award, noted on the same school news page as recognition for technology- and STEM-related programmes. - International School Awards (ISA) 2022 — Pathways to Continued and University Education (received Jan 19, 2022): The school reports it was the recipient of the 2022 ISA in the Pathways to Continued and University Education category for its Worldwise Academy initiative. Notes and scope: the lists above include only awards that the Dulwich College Beijing website explicitly states the college (the school) received. The school website also records shortlisted nominations and many student-level awards and examination recognitions (for example shortlists for the China Schools Awards 2024 and TES Awards 2024, and individual examination awards), but those are either nominations/shortlists or student awards rather than school-level award wins and so are not included in the list above. | Awards China Schools Awards 2025 (Finalist) – Holistic Education Award The school was selected as a top-three finalist in this category, recognizing its commitment to educating the "whole child" and providing outstanding opportunities for student development outside the classroom. China Schools Awards 2025 (Finalist) – Diversity and Inclusion Award The school was shortlisted as a finalist for this award, acknowledging its efforts to create a supportive environment where all community members feel celebrated and safe. China Schools Awards 2022 (Finalist) – Holistic Education Award The school was named a finalist in this category, highlighting its innovation and commitment to meeting students' emotional, social, ethical, and academic needs |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations Dulwich College Beijing — Affiliations & accreditations listed on the school website (summary): - Council of International Schools (CIS): A global non-profit membership organisation that provides services and accreditation to primary, secondary and higher-education institutions; membership/accreditation signals the school has undergone CIS quality review processes. - Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): One of the regional accreditation bodies that accredits American and international schools; WASC accreditation indicates the school meets standards used by US and foreign institutions of American origin. - International Baccalaureate (IB) — Diploma Programme authorisation: The school is authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme; IB authorisation means the IB Organisation has approved the school to deliver that specific IB programme. - Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE): The school uses Cambridge qualifications (IGCSE) and is listed with CAIE; Cambridge is an international exam board that provides curricula and externally marked qualifications. - Association of China and Mongolia International Schools (ACAMIS): An association of international schools in East Asia that organises activities and professional development; membership indicates active participation in regional school collaboration and events. - Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA): A regional federation promoting British-style education in Asia and organising collaborative events (sports, music and other festivals); membership denotes the school's participation in that British-schools network. | Accreditations Beijing Education Commission (International Department) The school is officially registered with the local education commission under the International Department, ensuring compliance with local regulations. Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) The school is inspected by the ISI, an organization approved by the UK Government, and holds status as an officially accredited British School Overseas. IB World School The school is approved to deliver the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, a pre-university qualification for students aged 16-19. IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) The school is a member of this association, which represents world-class headteachers and preparatory schools delivering the British curriculum. ACAMIS (Association of China and Mongolia International Schools) Membership in this organization connects the school with other international schools in the region for student sports, cultural events, and professional development. Cambridge International Examinations Testing Centre The school is approved to administer examinations from Cambridge International, a provider of international qualifications like the IGCSE. Edexcel Testing Centre The school is an authorised centre for Edexcel, allowing students to take academic and vocational qualifications through this UK examination board. College Board SAT and ACT Testing Centre The school is authorised to administer these standardized tests, which are key requirements for students applying to universities in the United States. HSK and YCT Examination Centre The school is an approved centre for the HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) and YCT (Youth Chinese Test), enabling students to gain official certification for their Mandarin skills. |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Initial enquiry and information-gathering. Contact the admissions office (phone +86 10 6454-9002 or [email protected]) or submit an enquiry via the online form/Apply Now link (the school uses OpenApply for applications). Parents should use this stage to confirm eligibility under Beijing Municipal Education Commission rules (valid foreign passport + visa, Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan travel permits, or Chinese passport + foreign PR and evidence of at least one year living abroad). Ask for the most recent Admissions Handbook, Age Placement Guide and the Tuition & Fee Information PDF — these documents contain the precise fee figures, required documents and grade-placement cutoffs (cutoff date: 1 September). | Admissions 1. Make an Enquiry: Parents are encouraged to start the process by submitting an online enquiry form, sending an email, or calling the admissions team directly to express interest. 2. Discover Our School: Families are invited to visit the campus either in person or virtually to meet the academic team, ask questions, and share their specific educational needs. 3. Apply for a Place: Parents must submit an online application form along with supporting documents; depending on the child's age, the school may also request further references and an assessment to ensure the right class placement. 4. Application Review: The school Principal reviews the completed application, after which the admissions team contacts the family to confirm the admissions status and outline the next steps for enrolment. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Dulwich College Beijing's public admissions pages do not advertise a routine, school-wide need-based or merit-based tuition scholarship programme. The school has run targeted partnership scholarships and opportunities (for example, a joint Notre Dame Global Scholars placement for a small number of IB students in 2022) and individual students have been awarded athletic scholarships or recruited to university sports programmes; these are program- or outcome-based examples rather than a regular tuition-bursary scheme. If you are looking for fee assistance or a scholarship specifically to reduce tuition, contact admissions directly — they can confirm whether any limited or time‑bound programmes exist and whether any departmental awards (for music, sport or specific partnerships) might apply. For background reading on recent partnership scholarship activity and student athletic award examples see the school news items. | Scholarships The school does not explicitly list academic or talent-based scholarships for incoming students. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist We place applicants who meet entry requirements on a waiting list when there are no current vacancies or when the application is for a future academic year. Priority on the waiting list is given to siblings of current students and to children transferring from another Dulwich College International school. Waiting lists are maintained for one academic year only; if you wish to remain on the list beyond that you should re-contact admissions and check whether the school requires a fresh application. Parents should expect that a place offer from the waitlist will require the standard acceptance formalities (acceptance confirmation and payment of the placement deposit) within the timeline specified by the school. | Waitlist The school does not explicitly detail a specific "waitlist" or "pool" system policy. However, they do note that students are placed in year groups according to their date of birth, academic level, and language ability, and that they accept applications throughout the school year. |
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