Shanghai Singapore International School vs Wellington College International Shanghai

	S Shanghai Singapore International School Shanghai, China	W Wellington College International Shanghai Shanghai, China
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year RMB 130,000 - 300,000	Fees / year RMB 292,400 - 391,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Singapore Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (MYP), IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme)	Curriculum EYFS (Early years foundation stage), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,400	Pupils 1,600
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 19
Instruction language	Instruction language English, Mandarin	Instruction language English, Mandarin
Opened	Opened 1996	Opened 2014
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Campus address: 301 Zhujian Road, Minhang District, Shanghai (201106). The school is in Minhang, a residential/urban district of Shanghai; it's primarily reached by private car or by the SSIS school-bus network that serves many neighbourhoods around the city.	Location Wellington College International Shanghai is in the Qiantan International Business District, Pudong New District (No.1500 Yao Long Road; campus main gate listed as No.100 Hai Yang Xi Road). The school also operates a separate Early Years Centre (No.195 Tongwan Road). The nearest metro is Oriental Sports Center (Lines 6, 8 and 11 — exit 4 is the recommended exit and involves a short walk via Yaoti/Yaolong roads).
Stages	Stages SSIS is a K–12 school with three main divisions: Preschool (Early Years), Primary School and Senior School. The senior pathway includes IGCSE preparation and the IB Diploma for upper secondary students (the school serves ages roughly 2–18).	Stages The school runs an Early Years Centre for children aged c.2–5 (Pre‑Nursery, Nursery, Reception), a Primary/Prep phase and a Secondary phase up to Year 13. Years 10–11 follow IGCSE programmes and Years 12–13 study the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP); the school's published age range is from the Early Years through to graduation around age 18.
School type	School type SSIS is a co-educational day school for expatriate students (no boarding provision). Official IB listing notes gender as co-educational and boarding status as day.	School type Wellington Shanghai is a co‑educational private international day school offering a bilingual (English–Mandarin) curriculum and is part of the Wellington College Education (China) group, linked to Wellington College in the UK. The Shanghai campus does not operate a boarding programme (students must reside in Shanghai with a parent).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The Student Services team provides Academic Learning Support (personalised learning plans, small-group and one-to-one interventions and exam accommodations), English Language Acquisition support, and social–emotional counselling; the school describes collaborative, integrated support across divisions.	Additional learning support The school has a Learning Support department that provides bespoke support for pupils with learning difficulties, working with class teachers, families and — where needed — external specialists. Support is planned, reviewed regularly and sits alongside the school's pastoral and wellbeing provision.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school does not indicate a formal national or governmental affiliation. Its programmes explicitly include a Singapore curriculum pathway alongside Cambridge/IGCSE and the IB Diploma.	Country affiliation The campus is affiliated with Wellington College (the founding school in the UK) and is part of the Wellington College Education (China) network — it is an independent international school rather than a government/state school.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated on the school website (SSIS presents itself as an international, secular K–12 school).	Religious affiliation The Shanghai campus does not present itself as a faith school on its website. (For context, the original Wellington College in the UK has historical Church of England roots, but the Shanghai campus does not advertise a religious designation.)
School day structure	School day structure Published secondary sources list a typical school day of about 8:30 am to 3:30 pm for students; after-school activities run later (SSIS's ASP sessions and related bus runs extend to around 5:00 pm). Parents should confirm exact daily timings with admissions, as timetables can vary by division and year.	School day structure The school notes that every school day begins with a pastoral session; break and lunch arrangements and exact school start/end times vary by year group. Detailed daily timetables and term‑specific schedules are published to parents via the school calendar/parent portal — contact Admissions or consult the calendar/parent resources for the precise times for the year group you are considering.
Bus service details	Bus service details SSIS runs an optional, school-managed bus service in partnership with professional bus companies. The fleet is described as more than 70 buses equipped with CCTV, GPS tracking and first-aid supplies; each bus has a trained monitor. Routes cover roughly 300 neighbourhoods across 11 Shanghai districts, and SSIS provides free ASP (after-school programme) drop-offs to a set of locations. For route maps, schedules and booking you should consult the school's bus pages or contact Admissions.	Bus service details Wellington provides an optional daily school‑bus service operated with a licensed third‑party transport company; routes cover many pick‑up points (the school cites more than 130 in Puxi and 70 in Pudong) and each bus is staffed by a bus monitor responsible for pupils on the journey. Parents register via the EDU365 bus platform; the school publishes a general annual bus fee and a separate Welly Line (local) route and fee schedule (the website shows the Welly Line fee and the standard annual fee with termly breakdowns).
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Matriculation Fees - Application Fee: RMB 2,500 (non‑refundable, non‑transferable). - Matriculation Fee (enrolment/entry fee): RMB 20,000 (non‑refundable, non‑transferable). Annual Tuition (by year group) — Academic Year 2025/2026 - Toddler / Pre‑N (Half day): RMB 130,000 per year. - Pre‑Nursery to Kindergarten 2: RMB 200,000 per year. - Grade 1 to Grade 6 (Primary): RMB 260,000 per year. - Grade 7 to Grade 8 (Lower Secondary): RMB 280,000 per year. - Grade 9 to Grade 10 (IGCSE): RMB 290,000 per year. - Grade 11 to Grade 12 (IB Diploma): RMB 300,000 per year. Per‑term (Trimester) amounts - The school offers an annual or termly (trimester) payment option; per‑term figures below are one‑third of the annual tuition (rounded). This per‑term breakdown is an arithmetic division based on the school's stated trimester payment option. - Toddler / Pre‑N: approx. RMB 43,333 per term. - Pre‑N to K2: approx. RMB 66,667 per term. - Grade 1–6: approx. RMB 86,667 per term. - Grade 7–8: approx. RMB 93,333 per term. - Grade 9–10: approx. RMB 96,667 per term. - Grade 11–12: RMB 100,000 per term. Optional / Additional Fees - English Language Acquisition (ELA) Programme (Grade 1–6): RMB 25,000 per year (payable in full before service). - Transportation (regular bus service): RMB 18,500/year (below 5 km) or RMB 20,000/year (5 km and above). Refunds prorated per school day (less handling fee). - Paid After‑School Programmes (selected ASPs): RMB 1,400–3,800 per 8‑week session (paid ASPs are charged separately). - Uniforms: ordered through the school's contracted vendor; a complimentary uniform credit is offered to eligible early re‑enrolling students. Actual uniform costs are charged via the vendor. Billing schedule, payment terms & methods - Payment options: Annual (one‑time) or Termly (trimester) payments. Accepted currencies: RMB and USD. Methods: point‑of‑sale (credit/debit cards, local UnionPay for RMB), and bank transfer (email proof to invoice@ssis.asia). Exchange rate for overseas remittances follows the People's Bank of China central parity rate on the first working day of the month. - Discounts: 10% sibling discount; 10% corporate discount for companies paying for five or more children (not cumulative). - Late payments: RMB 300 per day up to 7 days; persistent non‑payment may lead to suspension and withholding of records. Boarding - SSIS operates as a day school; boarding facilities are not provided. Refunds & withdrawal - Matriculation fee and other non‑tuition fees are non‑refundable. - If a student does not attend any school days in a term, that term's tuition will be refunded in full; if a student attends any day in a term, that term's tuition is payable and non‑refundable. - Late withdrawal without 30 days' written notice: 10% of the annual tuition is charged in lieu of notice. Optional service refunds (transport, ASPs, ELA) follow the terms in the registration pack.	Fee details Application fees - Application fee: RMB 3,500 (non-refundable; payable when the application is submitted). Tuition fees (annual and term amounts by year group) - Pre‑Nursery / Nursery / Reception: Annual RMB 292,400 — Michaelmas RMB 122,808; Lent RMB 92,106; Summer RMB 92,106. - Years 1–5: Annual RMB 324,600 — Michaelmas RMB 136,332; Lent RMB 102,249; Summer RMB 102,249. - Year 6: Annual RMB 341,800 — Michaelmas RMB 143,556; Lent RMB 107,667; Summer RMB 107,667. - Years 7–9: Annual RMB 356,700 — Michaelmas RMB 149,814; Lent RMB 112,361; Summer RMB 112,361. - Years 10–11: Annual RMB 380,300 — Michaelmas RMB 159,726; Lent RMB 119,795; Summer RMB 119,795. - Years 12–13: Annual RMB 391,000 — no termly payment option. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are published per term; a full term's fees are payable for any term in which the student attends (even if only part of the term). Years 12–13 are not available for termly payment. Boarding fees - The school does not offer a boarding service. All students must live in Shanghai with at least one parent. Other costs - Resource (acceptance) fee: RMB 18,000 (payable on acceptance; held against College property and refunded after return of property less any deductions). - Lunches: charged separately by the catering provider; parents pay the lunch provider directly (annual, termly or top-ups). - Bus service: Standard annual bus RMB 22,050 (termly Michaelmas RMB 9,261; Lent RMB 6,946; Summer RMB 6,946). Welly Line annual bus RMB 14,700 (termly Michaelmas RMB 6,174; Lent RMB 4,631; Summer RMB 4,631). Bus fees are generally non‑refundable once the service has commenced. - Uniform: approximately RMB 3,700 for a full set (items may be purchased separately). - Individual instrumental music tuition, voluntary trips and certain activities are charged separately. Sibling discount: families with three or more children enrolled receive 5% per child. Refund and withdrawal information - The resource fee is refundable after return of College property and deduction for damage or outstanding fees; official receipt/fapiao requirements apply for refunds. If withdrawing, parents must give one full term's written notice or pay one full term's fees in lieu of notice (dates and procedures are specified by the College). Bus fees are generally not refundable once service has started. Fee payment options - Payment accepted by bank transfer or cheque in RMB or USD; cash only in RMB. When paying by bank transfer in foreign currency, the amount received on arrival is used (Bank of China rate applies); remittance advice with pupil name and year group must be submitted to the finance office. Official tax receipts (fapiao) are issued for tuition payments; other service providers issue their own receipts.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements The school does not offer boarding. All students must reside in Shanghai with at least one parent.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school has a uniform policy. Shanghai Xinxinle Dress Co., Ltd is contracted as the uniform vendor, and uniforms are ordered online with delivery to home addresses. The Sabres Store on campus provides sizing and fittings.	Uniform requirement Uniforms and sports kits are mandatory. The dress code is specified for each year group, and the uniform shop is on the first floor of Building A next to the V&A Café.
Food options	Food options The school provides catering with an in-house kitchen and publishes weekly menus planned by the Head Chef, including options across Chinese, Western, Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Produce mainly comes from Mahota Farm on Chongming Island, with other licensed suppliers; vegetarian meals and dietary accommodations are available. Food samples are retained for 48 hours and the kitchen is regularly inspected to ensure safety and compliance.	Food options Catering is provided by Aden. Menus include daily Asian and Western options such as sandwiches and noodles with vegetarian choices, and allergens are posted; the environment is nut-free.
House system	House system The school uses a House System with four houses: Ruby, Amber, Pearl, and Sapphire. All students and staff belong to a House and remain in the same House through their SSIS journey, including younger siblings. House activities include sports, music, debating and other competitions, with House points tallied to determine an annual Championship.	House system The house system comprises eight houses: Combermere, Hill, Hopetoun, Wellesley, Stanley, Lynedoch, Hardinge and Orange. Pupils are allocated to a house on joining and remain in it; houses coordinate academic, artistic and sporting activities and foster school identity.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership SSIS was founded and invested by Prime Group International. The Core Leadership Team leads the school, guiding curriculum development and daily operations.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by Wellington College Education (China) (WCEC). The governing framework includes the WCEC Executive Board, School Affairs Boards and four sub-committees (Academic, Facilities and Services, Finance and HR, Safeguarding). Appointments come from Wellington College in the UK and WCEC.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details SSIS operates a K–12 pathway: Preschool (Pre‑Nursery–Kindergarten 2), Primary (Grades 1–6), Lower Secondary (Grades 7–8), a two‑year IGCSE course for Grades 9–10, and a two‑year IB Diploma for Grades 11–12. The Preschool programme aligns with Singapore's Nurturing Early Learners framework, and the Primary curriculum draws on Singapore Math and Science together with Cambridge Primary English. Lower Secondary follows the Cambridge Lower Secondary programme to prepare students for the IGCSE years, which in turn lead into the IB Diploma in Senior School. Chinese language and culture are taught across all stages with banded Advanced/Standard/Foundation classes from Grade 1, immersive culture lessons, and options to take Chinese at IGCSE and within the IB Diploma. The academic programme is complemented by structured co‑curricular activities (CCA/ASP) and specialist sports and arts offerings—examples include formal after‑school clubs as well as school programmes in golf and swimming.	Curriculum details Wellington College International Shanghai delivers a bilingual (English–Mandarin) curriculum across Early Years, Primary and Secondary stages, integrating Mandarin as a core subject and offering a Dual Language Pathway. The Early Years Centre (Pre‑Nursery, Nursery, Reception; ages 2–5) follows a bespoke programme linked to the UK Early Years Foundation Stage with play‑based and inquiry approaches. The Primary School (Years 1–6) uses the English National Curriculum adapted for international learners, delivered through a concept‑based Programme of Inquiry and substantial Chinese language provision. The Secondary School serves ages 11–18 (Years 7–13): pupils study towards IGCSE qualifications in Years 10–11 (core English, mathematics, sciences plus options in humanities, languages, arts and PE). Sixth Form (Years 12–13) follows the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP); Mandarin study routes include IGCSE Mandarin in Years 10–11 and IB language options (ab initio, Chinese B, or Chinese A at SL/HL) in the Diploma years.
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 SSIS states that its Student Services Team has prioritised an enhanced Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programme and embeds SEL across all divisions. The school references use of recognised SEL frameworks (including links to Harmony and ISCA materials) and describes Primary Pastoral Care lessons as opportunities for students to develop social and emotional skills. Counsellors and the Student Services team work with teachers to integrate SEL into curriculum lessons and run related parent workshops. These initiatives are described in school newsletters and the Student Services overview on the SSIS website.	Social & emotional learning Wellington states that pastoral care is central to the College and that every school day begins with a pastoral session led by class teachers, form tutors, heads of year and tutors to provide one-to-one and group discussions, quiet self‑study and wellbeing reflection. The school says its wellbeing curriculum was developed in partnership with the Institute of Positive Education and includes age‑appropriate PSHE elements and mindfulness to build emotional literacy. Pastoral provision is described as operating across Early Years to Year 13, with class teachers taking the lead in Early Years/Primary and heads of year and tutors leading in Senior School. Specific staff roles named on the site include heads of year, tutors and specialists from the Pupil Services department.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) SSIS describes Academic Learning Support within its Student Services provision, stating it offers personalised learning plans, differentiated instruction, small-group interventions, one-to-one mentoring and assistive technology to support students with diagnosed learning needs. The school's public pages list dedicated Learning Support staff and a Director of Student Services with qualifications and experience in Special Education, indicating an in‑school specialist team. SSIS also states that accommodations and modifications are available for assessments. The school's website does not enumerate specific diagnostic categories supported (for example dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder or ADHD) on its publicly available pages. SSIS is presented as a mainstream international school with in‑school learning support rather than as a specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) The College's website describes a Learning Support department that provides support and guidance to pupils with learning difficulties at varying levels and that the school works closely with teachers, pupils and parents to identify, plan and review bespoke support. The school states that, in some cases, it will engage external partners where the need demands it, and the site references external speech‑language specialists in related events. The website does not present Wellington College International Shanghai as a specialist SEN institution; provision is described as school‑based Learning Support rather than specialised residential or specialist SEN provision. Specific diagnostic categories (for example, autism spectrum disorder, specific learning disorders, etc.) are not listed on the public pages.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language SSIS publishes an English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme for Grade 1–6 and a Cambridge English programme, and describes ELA specialists who collaborate with classroom teachers to integrate language support across the curriculum. The school's tuition page lists a fee for the English Language Acquisition (ELA) Programme for Grades 1–6, confirming a formal, fee‑based ELA offering. The faculty directory also names an ELA Coordinator and ELA teachers, indicating staffed provision. These materials show SSIS publicly discloses active EAL/ELA support rather than no provision.	English as an additional language Wellington publishes a dedicated explanation of its EAL provision: pupils are grouped by ability into three tiers (beginners, intermediate and highly proficient) and may receive targeted small‑group intervention, in‑class EAL teacher support or enrichment and challenge as appropriate. The site names a Director of English as Additional Language and describes practices such as withdrawal groups, in‑class support from EAL teachers and a 1:1 reading programme with interns to develop English proficiency. The pages emphasise immersion in an English‑rich environment alongside structured support to develop both conversational and academic English.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing SSIS provides individual and group counselling through its Student Services Team and names counsellors assigned to different divisions on its site. The school states counsellors offer crisis intervention, pastoral care lessons, and work with teachers to embed wellbeing into the curriculum. SSIS newsletters and staff profiles describe parent workshops on topics such as executive functioning, supporting teenagers and home wellness tools. The Director of Student Services is presented as having responsibilities for wellbeing and inclusive practice. These counselling and wellbeing supports are described on the SSIS website.	Mental wellbeing The school describes a central Pupil Services hub that includes counselling, life coaches and learning support and states that wellbeing is delivered through timetabled lessons and specialist interventions. A news article on the site reports that the Pupil Services team includes trained coaches, counsellors, staff trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and art therapists, and that there are fortnightly wellbeing lessons from Year 1 to 13 developed with the Institute of Positive Education. The site also refers to workshops from external specialists (for example ELG) and parent workshops as part of the wider mental‑health provision. Specific hour‑by‑hour service schedules or clinical treatment protocols are not published on the public pages.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding SSIS states it has a Child Protection Policy, a Campus Safety Committee, and a zero‑tolerance position on bullying, neglect or any form of abuse. The school's public pages describe practical safeguarding measures including staff safety training (first aid/CPR/AED), visitor ID procedures, segregated toilets, and strict student‑release processes. Pastoral Care lessons are identified as part of students' education about personal boundaries and safety. SSIS indicates these child protection procedures are communicated to staff and parents and provides contact points on its website for enquiries. For the full policy text and procedural detail the school directs readers to its Child Protection Policy and school contacts.	Safeguarding Wellington's safeguarding pages state the College has robust child‑protection policies and procedures, requires all staff to read and sign the Safeguarding Policy and Staff Code of Conduct annually, and provides annual safeguarding training for staff. The school says it follows the recommendations of the International Task Force on Child Protection for recruitment and requires rigorous background checks for staff appointments. The site gives a named contact for safeguarding concerns (Designated Safeguarding Lead, Gemma McDonagh) and offers the full Safeguarding Policy as a downloadable document. For details of policy text, reporting routes or statutory timings, the site directs readers to the downloadable safeguarding policy.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview SSIS operates a bespoke Minhang campus with on-site spaces for academics, arts, sports, and student life. Facilities include an Amphitheatre and an Auditorium, multiple cafeterias, and an Early Year Library, plus a Performing Arts Centre, Dance Room, and Music Studio. The campus houses STEM and learning spaces, including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories, an iMac Lab, STEAM fabrication and Maker spaces, and a Knowledge Hub. On the sports side, SSIS provides an Indoor Gymnasium, a Fitness Centre, a Swimming Pool, a Gymnastics Room, a natural-grass football pitch, and an outdoor track; a Golf Learning Centre and a Golf Driving Range support its golf programme. The campus also features a Farm to School space and a Chinese Culture Room. A Virtual Campus Tour showcases these spaces.	Facilities overview The campus includes two swimming pools, a sports hall, a running track, football and rugby pitches, and the Dome. The Wellington College Theatre and Blackbox Theatre provide spaces for performances by pupils across year groups. Art and Design & Technology studios and private practice spaces support creative work. The academic facilities are state-of-the-art with interactive digital whiteboards, VR headsets, digital tablets, a robotics lab and a miniature planetarium. An all-new organic garden offers hands-on learning about sustainable food production and horticulture.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities SSIS provides on-campus sports facilities including an Indoor Aquatic Centre, a fully equipped fitness room, a natural-grass football pitch, an outdoor track, a gymnastics room, an indoor gymnasium, and multi-purpose spaces for a range of sports. The SSIS Go Swim Programme provides swimming instruction from an early age. The Golf Learning Centre and Golf Driving Range support the golf programme on campus, with on-course practice at Sun Island Kunshan Golf Club (a 27-hole championship course).	Sports facilities World-class sports facilities include three 11-a-side football pitches, three basketball courts, three volleyball courts, up to seven netball and tennis courts, a 25-meter pool and a 15-meter pool, and a 400-meter athletics track. The Wellington Extra programme provides additional small-group training. The school recognises talent through Sports Fellowship and Scholarship programmes. The sports programme supports competitive teams and local, regional and international competition opportunities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic spaces include Physics Lab, Chemistry Lab, and Biology Lab to support hands-on science learning. The iMac Lab supports digital and creative work, while STEAM spaces encompass Fabrication Space, Maker Space, Robotics facilities, and related Creative/Engineering activities. The Knowledge Hub serves as a central learning commons for research and collaboration, and the Early Year Library supports literacy development in the youngest cohort.	Academic facilities Academic facilities are state-of-the-art with interactive digital whiteboards, VR headsets, digital tablets, a robotics lab and a miniature planetarium.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities SSIS offers a broad range of extracurricular opportunities through its Activities Overview, including sports, aesthetics, and clubs via the Co-Curricular Programme and After School Programme. The school is a Duke of Edinburgh International Award Centre, offering Bronze, Silver or Gold awards with mentor support for Senior School students aged 13+. Learning Outdoors provides field trips, excursions and camps, including the Farm to School project and organized outdoor experiences. The Weekend Programme offers paid activities from external vendors to deepen skills beyond the classroom, and a House System supports student leadership and belonging through various clubs and activities.	Extra curricular facilities The Dome and professional-grade theatre spaces support performances in dance, orchestra, drama and musical theatre. Regular productions and concerts engage pupils across year groups. Art and D&T studios, along with private practice spaces, support a wide range of creative pursuits. The organic garden provides hands-on learning about sustainable farming and horticulture.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Shanghai Singapore International School (SSIS) was founded in 1996, opening its first year with 18 students and nine teachers. Over the next two decades the school expanded campuses (relocating to Hua Cao Town in 2001 and adding a second campus in 2003), grew its secondary provision, and obtained authorisations for international programmes in stages (including IB MYP in 2003 and the IB Diploma Programme in 2005). The school continued physical and programme development through the 2010s and into the 2020s—adding facilities such as an aquatic centre and staff residence, integrating campus locations in 2019, completing a major expansion in 2020, and earning WASC accreditation in 2025. These milestones and programme authorisations are documented on the school's history page.	History Wellington College International Shanghai opened in 2014 as part of the Wellington College Education (China) group and sits within the wider Wellington College global network. The Wellington China group (WCEC) was founded by Joy Qiao in 2009 and had opened its first school in Tianjin in 2011 before expanding to Shanghai in 2014. The school is governed through WCEC's multi‑layered model, which includes a WCEC Executive Board and a School Affairs Board responsible for strategic oversight and school‑level governance. Wellington College Education (China) positions its schools as part of a coordinated network that shares leadership and standards across sites.
Community	Community SSIS describes its community as a partnership of a diverse teaching faculty, parents and students; the teaching staff come from more than 20 countries and the school highlights active parent engagement and alumni connections. The school regularly runs community-facing events and projects—examples in recent years include school fairs, seasonal celebrations, family activity days and school-hosted public events such as TEDx and the International Family Bazaar. SSIS also promotes community involvement through outreach and volunteer projects that connect students and families with broader service activities.	Community The school community comprises pupils, parents, staff and alumni who take part in a busy annual calendar of community and cultural events organised with parental involvement. Regular highlights include UN Day and the International Food Festival (IFF), a Winter Bazaar, a Summer Festival and an Annual Ball, all of which bring together families and staff to celebrate cultural diversity and the school year. Parent and pupil testimony published by the school emphasises the role of the house system and co‑curricular activities in building community connections and cross‑year relationships.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association At SSIS the parent body is organised as the Parent Support Group (PSG); its stated mission is to enrich student life and the wider SSIS community through involvement in educational, social and charity events. The PSG operates as a volunteering platform and is led by an Exco Committee that plans and runs events each year; parent volunteers contribute skills and time across activities. Regular PSG-organised activities named on the site include Book Week, Santa's Workshop, Chinese New Year celebrations, International Friendship Day, the Teacher Appreciation lunch and the International Family Bazaar. Parents who wish to volunteer are invited to contact the PSG Exco Committee at psg@ssis.asia. In addition, SSIS runs a Parent Education Programme of workshops for caregivers and families (delivered by staff, parent volunteers and external providers) to support lifelong learning for parents; enquiries for that programme can be sent to community@ssis.asia.	Parent teacher association Friends of Wellington (FOW) is the school's parent‑teacher community group; the school describes it as more than a conventional PTA and says it brings parents, teachers and other community members together to share, learn and celebrate. FOW is explicitly involved in charitable activities and in organising many of the school's annual events, including the Winter Bazaar, Summer Festival, Annual Ball and UN Day/IFF. The group coordinates volunteers, runs event stalls and supports community fundraising and social programmes, with opportunities for parents to sign up or ask about involvement. Parents are invited to contact the FOW via friendsofwellington@wellingtoncollege.cn or through the school's admissions/enquiry form to find out about current volunteering roles and events. The school presents FOW as an integral part of college life that helps shape the community calendar and outreach work.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual SSIS offers a Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) Programme with term-based options that promote leadership and social skills. CCA offerings include sports (Floor Hockey, Gymnastics, Softball, Soccer, Basketball), aesthetics (Dance, Creative Drama, Gu Zheng, Singing and Performing, Xylophone and Orchestra), and special-interest clubs (STEAM Club, Lego Building Club, Origami, Scrapbooking). The After School Programme (ASP) runs three 8-week sessions and includes activities organized by teachers and external vendors.	Academic & intellectual The school uses English as the official language of instruction while Mandarin is taught as a core subject through Year 9, with many pupils continuing Mandarin through graduation. The bilingual curriculum seamlessly integrates English and Mandarin, supporting academic development across subjects. Pupils may follow Cambridge IGCSE or the IB Diploma Programme in the secondary years. There is a Dual Language Pathway that provides immersive English‑Mandarin learning from Early Years through Year 8.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative SSIS provides an Aesthetics Programme with opportunities in art, dance, drama and music. Co-Curricular activities include Dance, Creative Drama, Gu Zheng, Singing and Performing, Xylophone and Orchestra. The programme helps students build self-confidence, broaden horizons, and nurture an appreciation of the arts.	Arts & creative The IB Diploma Programme includes arts subjects such as Music, Visual Arts and Theatre. The school integrates creative arts as part of the diploma and broader curriculum, supporting creative expression alongside academic study. Students have opportunities to pursue creative subjects within the standard IB/Diploma framework.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language SSIS offers a Chinese Language Programme that combines national Chinese and Singaporean curriculums. From Grade 1, students are banded into Advanced Chinese, Standard Chinese and Foundation Chinese. From Grade 9, students may study Chinese as Language and Literature or start Chinese as a new language during IGCSE and IB Diploma programmes; immersion is supported through Chinese Culture activities such as Chinese Culture Week and the Footprint anthology, and the school participates in the International Schools Chinese Debating Competition.	Cultural & language English is the official language of instruction, and Mandarin Chinese is taught as a core subject across the College. The Chinese learning programme is mandatory for all pupils through Year 9, with pathways to continue Chinese study into IGCSE and IB years. Courses cover Chinese language and culture for learners at every level from Year 1 to Year 13, and the school marks traditional Chinese celebrations with cultural events.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies SSIS offers a broad range of clubs and after-school activities across sports, arts and special interests. CCA offerings take place during school hours and sign-ups are managed via the SchoolsBuddy app. These activities foster social development and personal interests.	Social & hobbies A daily co-curricular activities programme provides opportunities beyond classroom learning, including cultural and linguistic activities that support language and social engagement.
Community & service	Community & service Community service clubs are part of the Co-Curricular Programme and the After School Programme. Students participate in volunteering and social responsibility initiatives as part of holistic education. These activities connect students with the wider community and reinforce a culture of service.	Community & service The IB Diploma Programme includes Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) as a core requirement, integrating community involvement, personal development and service.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional CCA and ASP programmes develop leadership qualities and professional skills. SSIS references its Future Global Leader's Attributes and provides opportunities for student leadership and project management. ASP runs three 8-week sessions with activities organized by teachers and external vendors.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing SSIS emphasizes health and wellness through sport and physical education. SSIS participates in inter-school associations such as CISSA, SISAC, ACAMIS and the Shanghai Swim League, and offers Golf and Go Swim programmes. Facilities include an indoor Aquatic Centre, a fitness room, a grass football pitch, an outdoor track, a gymnastics room, an indoor gymnasium and multi-purpose spaces.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is an integral part of the curriculum. Lessons and workshops address physical health, mental wellbeing, ethics, relationships and identity, and careers and aspirations, helping pupils develop empathy, self‑awareness, resilience and independence.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Primary School uses a Singapore-based curriculum, including Singapore Math and Science, and Cambridge Primary English. The Preschool programme includes English Language and Literacy and Chinese Language and Culture as learning areas. From Grade 1 onwards, Chinese language instruction is differentiated into three competencies: Advanced Chinese, Standard Chinese, and Foundation Chinese. In Senior School, Chinese language learning is integrated within the CLSP, IGCSE, and IBDP pathways, with Chinese offered as a Language and Literature option or as an additional language in IGCSE/IBDP.	Language provision The language of instruction is English. Mandarin Chinese is taught as a core subject throughout the College and is mandatory for all pupils until Year 9, with many pupils continuing to graduate. Chinese language and culture courses are offered for pupils at every level from Year 1 to Year 12. Chinese is complemented by foreign languages: Year 7–9 pupils select an extra language from French or Spanish (or Chinese Study in addition to Chinese). From Year 10 to Year 13, pupils may choose any one foreign language from Chinese, French and Spanish as part of the IGCSE or IB options. Elective courses in Chinese culture are available as part of the Chinese language programme. The school assesses pupils' abilities and places them in classes accordingly.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Preschool is a bilingual learning environment with one English-speaking and one Chinese-speaking teacher per class. From Grade 1 onwards, Chinese language instruction is organized into three competencies: Advanced Chinese, Standard Chinese, and Foundation Chinese. The Chinese Language and Culture Programme aggregates both the national Chinese and Singaporean curriculums and emphasises bilingualism and multilingualism. Senior School follows three stages—Grades 7-8 CLSP, Grades 9-10 IGCSE, and Grades 11-12 IBDP—and includes integrated Chinese language study.	Bilingual teaching The school offers a bilingual curriculum that seamlessly integrates English and Mandarin. Bilingual programs exist alongside the British curriculum. This approach supports international-mindedness and cross-cultural communication.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Preschool offers an immersive bilingual curriculum with dual-language teaching in English and Chinese culture. The Chinese Language and Culture Programme provides immersive Chinese learning with daily Advanced Chinese, Standard Chinese, and Foundation Chinese classes. The programme features platforms for language immersion such as the International Schools Chinese Debating Competition and the Footprint anthology. The class model uses an interdisciplinary approach to apply vocabulary learned in Chinese language lessons and extends learning beyond the classroom.	Immersion programs The Dual Language Pathway provides fully bilingual immersion in English and Chinese, from the early years through Year 8. Classes are taught by a native English speaker and a native Chinese speaker in parallel, with a native-language assistant supporting activities such as PE and co-curriculars. The pathway prepares pupils to progress to first-language English and Chinese IGCSE courses and, finally, the bilingual IB Diploma.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards (Only awards and recognitions explicitly reported on the school website and awarded to the school or the school organisation are listed, with the school's own wording and dates.) - Carfax Education – The Schools Index: Top 150 Private Schools in the World (recognition) — Wellington College International Shanghai was named among the Carfax Education ‘Top 150 Private Schools in the world' (reported on the school website on 30 Oct 2024). This is a published international index in which the school appears. - Forbes China International School Annual Selection (2024) — Wellington College International Shanghai is reported on the school site as placing 3rd nationwide in Forbes China's 2024 International School Annual Selection (reported 15 Jul 2024). This is a rankings/selection published by Forbes China and the school reports that placing. - Hurun Education Top International Schools in China (listed results reported on school site) — the school reports being ranked #1 in Shanghai and #4 in China in Hurun Education's Top International Schools (report on 5 Apr 2024 referring to the Hurun list); later reporting shows the Wellington China schools on the Hurun 2025 list with Wellington Shanghai listed as 6th in China (reported 6 Aug 2025). These are national/regional rankings published by Hurun and published on the school website. - HR Asia ‘Best Companies to Work for in Asia' and related employer awards (2024) — the school's site reports that HR Asia named ‘Wellington' one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia (announcement dated 18 Nov 2024) and that the organisation also received HR Asia DEI and ‘Most Caring Company' awards that year. These are employer/organisation awards reported on the school site. - British Chamber / British Business Awards — Business Partnership Award (2024) — the school's site reports that Wellington College Education (China) won the Business Partnership Award at the 2024 British Business Awards (reported 7 Jan 2025). The school's article makes clear this award was presented to Wellington College Education (China) (the group), and that the school reports it on its news feed. - Forbes China Annual Selection — 2025 family recognition — the school's site reports (19 Jun 2025) that all six Wellington College Education (China) schools were recognised in the Forbes China 2025 International Schools Annual Selection (this is reported as a multi-campus recognition that includes the Shanghai campus). How I compiled this - All items above are taken from pages on the Wellington College International Shanghai website (news items, curriculum pages and the site footer links). Each award or accreditation listed is accompanied by the specific school web page where it is reported or linked. If you want, I can now verify institutional accreditation entries (dates and current status) directly against the issuing organisations' public directories and return a short verification list (with direct links to each accreditation record).
Accreditations	Accreditations • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) — SSIS earned initial accreditation from WASC (Accrediting Commission for Schools), a US-based regional accrediting body that evaluates whole-school quality in areas such as curriculum, leadership and student wellbeing. • Council of International Schools (CIS) — SSIS holds CIS international accreditation (including a successful re-accreditation exercise reported by the school); CIS accreditation signals alignment with internationally-recognised standards for governance, teaching, student support and continuous improvement. • International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) authorisations — SSIS is authorised to deliver IB programmes: Middle Years Programme (MYP, authorised 2003), Diploma Programme (IBDP, authorised 2005) and Career-related Programme (IBCP, authorised 2014). These authorisations indicate the school meets the IBO's programme and implementation requirements. • Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) authorisation — SSIS was authorised to offer Cambridge IGCSE (authorisation recorded in the school history), meaning it meets Cambridge's requirements to deliver that examination curriculum. • National Centre for School Curriculum and Textbook Development (NCCT) — SSIS received full accreditation from NCCT (a PRC body) in 2010, which reflects compliance with relevant national regulations and standards for schools serving expatriate children. • Swim England Learn-to-Swim programme provider accreditation — SSIS is an approved Swim England Learn-to-Swim programme provider (noted as one of the only approved providers in Shanghai/China on the school site); this is a programme accreditation for the school's swim curriculum and teacher training pathway.	Accreditations - International Baccalaureate (IB) — The school offers the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP); the IB is the international organisation that authorises and quality-assures IB programmes and indicates the school is authorised to deliver the Diploma. - Cambridge IGCSE (Cambridge Assessment International Education) — Wellington Shanghai offers IGCSE examinations (including Cambridge IGCSE Mandarin) as part of its secondary pathway; Cambridge IGCSE is the international qualification-awarding body for those exams. - Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC) — ACS WASC is a regional accrediting body whose mention on the school site indicates the school's relationship with an internationally recognised U.S.-based accreditation process for schools. (ACS WASC is linked from the school's website footer.) - Council of British International Schools (COBIS) — COBIS is a UK-based membership and quality-assurance organisation for British international schools; the school's site links to COBIS, indicating membership/association. - Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) — FOBISIA is a regional association of British-style schools in Asia (member schools take part in FOBISIA events and networks); the school's site links to FOBISIA. - Association of China and Mongolia International Schools (ACAMIS) — ACAMIS is a regional association for international schools in China and Mongolia (sporting and academic events and networking); the school both links to ACAMIS and appears as an ACAMIS host/participant in its news. - Council/Association of International Schools (COIS/CIS) — the site links to COIS/CIS resources; CIS-style accreditation/membership is a school-wide evaluative and improvement framework used by international schools. (The school footer includes a link to the organisation.) - Fieldwork Education / primary-curriculum relationship — the school's site links to Fieldwork Education (provider of internationally used primary curriculums), indicating curriculum alignment or use at primary levels. Note: the items above are taken from the school's own website (main pages, curriculum pages and footer links). Where the site links to an external body (for example ACS WASC, COBIS, FOBISIA, ACAMIS, IB), that is the publicly visible indication on the school site of the school's relationship with those organisations. If you would like, I can (a) check each organisation's public directory to confirm the exact accreditation/membership status and the dates of accreditation, or (b) request copies of the school's accreditation certificates (if you want formal verification).
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Create an OpenApply account. SSIS requires every applicant to register an OpenApply account before submitting an application or signing up for an Open Morning; this account is how the school sends all application notifications. Parents should register on SSIS's OpenApply link and keep the account login details and email address current because the admissions team uses it for test schedules, invoices and final offers. 2. Complete and submit required documents via OpenApply. The school lists specific document sets depending on the applicant's family status (for example: expatriate families, Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan citizens, children born in foreign countries to Chinese citizens, and families with SHMEC approvals), and documents must be translated into English or Chinese by an authorised translation company. Bring original documents to the Admissions Office for verification on the day of the Admissions Assessment; common items include the SSIS Registration Kit, Code of Conduct (G1+), Confidential Recommendation (G1+), birth certificate, vaccination record, latest school report and parent residency/employment paperwork. Review the document checklist carefully because omissions will delay processing. 3. Pay the application fee (and note its timing and refund rule). After you submit documents you will receive a proforma invoice from SSIS Finance; the application fee must be paid at least five working days before the scheduled Admissions Assessment. The SSIS tuition-and-fees page lists the Application Fee for AY2025/2026 as 2,500 (amounts published by the school) and states the fee is non‑refundable and valid only for the applying school year — plan to submit payment promptly using the accepted methods (bank transfer or on‑site by card/cash). Keep the bank receipt or card payment confirmation; the admissions office will require proof on occasion. 4. Attend the Admissions Assessment. All applicants must complete an Admissions Assessment; once SSIS has a complete application they will contact you with the assessment date and details. Register for a test date through the Admissions Test page (the form asks for applicant name, passport, DOB, grade applied and preferred test date); parents should arrive on campus prepared to show originals and arrive early so the child can settle — the school provides test dates and registration instructions via OpenApply or the Admissions Test form. If your child requires language support or special arrangements, contact admissions in advance to discuss accommodations. 5. Receive outcome and pay the matriculation (registration) fee. Successful applicants receive an SSIS Admissions Notification; once you receive the notification you must pay the Matriculation Fee within five working days to confirm the place. For AY2025/2026 the Matriculation Fee is shown as 20,000 on the SSIS fees page and is described as non‑refundable and not applicable against tuition — budget for this payment and retain the confirmation for school records. 6. Complete enrolment payments and service selections. After place confirmation you will be invoiced for tuition and any optional services (examples published for AY2025/2026: annual tuition by grade, the ELA programme, and school bus fees). Tuition amounts published by SSIS for AY2025/2026 are shown on the school site by grade band (examples: Pre‑N to K2 ≈ 200,000; Grade 1–6 ≈ 260,000; Grade 11–12 ≈ 300,000) and the ELA programme (Grade 1–6) and bus fees are listed as separate charges — check the Registration Pack download for payment deadlines, instalment options and refund/withdrawal policies. Confirm preferred services (bus route, ELA enrolment) before the school start date because some services require full pre‑payment. 7. Practical notes and contact details. Keep copies of all submissions and receipts, and check OpenApply frequently for messages from SSIS during the process.	Admissions 1. Initial enquiry and information-gathering. Contact the Wellington Admissions team (phone and email are published on the school site) or use the online enquiry/OpenApply link to request the Admissions booklet and the application checklist; parents should download and read the booklet and checklist so they know exactly which documents the school requires. 2. Complete the online application. Applications are submitted via the school's OpenApply portal; you will need to upload the documents listed on the published checklist (for example: passport/ID, recent school reports and any assessment records). There is a non‑refundable application fee (RMB 3,500) that must be paid for the application to be reviewed — make sure you attach all required files before submitting. 3. Assessment scheduling and format. After a completed application is received the school arranges an age‑appropriate Wellington admission assessment; assessments are usually held at the campus but can be arranged remotely if your child lives outside Shanghai. Parents should prepare for an assessment that looks at age‑appropriate literacy, numeracy and learning behaviours — the school notes assessment results are considered but are not the sole basis for decisions. 4. Admissions Committee review and decision timing. Applications (including assessment outcomes and submitted documents) are reviewed by the Admissions Committee; the school aims to notify applicants within five working days but warns that busier year groups may take longer. Keep in regular contact with your assigned admissions officer if you need a faster update or if you must meet any internal deadlines. 5. Offer, acceptance and deposits. If you receive an offer the school issues an offer letter; to secure the place parents must accept the College's terms and pay the stated resource fee (the site lists RMB 18,000) within the published acceptance window (the school's page specifies a five‑day deadline). Check the offer letter carefully for the exact payment deadline and the method (bank transfer instructions/terms will be on the letter). 6. Waiting pool / provisional placement (if no place is immediately available). If no places are available you may be placed in the school's waiting pool (the school uses the term “waiting pool” rather than a simple first‑come queue); placement into that pool only happens after a completed application, assessment and a recommendation by the Admissions Committee. The school emphasises that the waiting pool is managed by “best fit” (not strictly by application date) and that not all applicants in the pool will be offered a place. 7. Practical documents, timelines and re‑application. An application remains valid for one academic year (August–June); if you wish to apply for the following year you must submit a fresh application. Parents should also prepare routine documents (proofs of guardianship/residency, up‑to‑date school reports, immunisation/health records where required) in advance to avoid delaying assessment and review. 8. Fees, what they cover and when to review them. The school publishes a detailed fee schedule (the site's 2025–26 schedule lists annual and term breakdowns by year group) and states which items are included (most curriculum materials, basic co‑curricular activities and some trips) and which are excluded (school lunches, uniform, transport, individual music tuition and voluntary trips). Parents should download the full fee schedule from the school site and check the exact figure for their child's year group before accepting an offer. 9. Final enrolment steps and contact. After you accept an offer and complete payment, follow any onboarding instructions from Admissions (medical forms, start‑date confirmation, orientation details). If you have timing constraints (relocation dates, visa timing, sibling placements) communicate these early to your Admissions officer as published contact details are available on the school site.
Scholarships	Scholarships Historic scholarship programmes and current status: SSIS has run scholarship programmes in the past and published details in a school news update (posted April 23, 2020) that described three scholarship types — IBDP scholarships (two tiers: an ‘Excellence' award covering 100% of tuition and a ‘Merit' award covering 50% tuition for the two‑year IB Diploma intake) and Aesthetics and Athletics awards (each described as covering 50% tuition with annual renewal conditions). The 2020 news post also described an application process that included submission of papers, interview by a scholarship committee, specific eligibility by grade band and published deadlines for that year. Because the SSIS Scholarships page currently shows a placeholder message (“Stay tuned for more info on scholarships”), these published 2019/2020 details should be treated as historical and subject to change. For current scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, application forms and deadlines contact scholarships@ssis.asia or the Admissions Office — they can confirm whether the IBDP, Aesthetics or Athletics scholarships (or any other financial assistance) are being offered for the intake year you are applying to. Additionally, SSIS lists a School Services Request form that references a Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS); if you need need‑based support or formal financial‑assistance information, request the school's FAS documentation directly.	Scholarships Wellington Shanghai runs a Fellows & Scholars programme plus means‑tested bursaries. The Fellows Programme recognises pupils (years 10–13) for exceptional contribution in academics, the arts or sport and does not carry a monetary award; Fellows gain additional enrichment opportunities. The Scholars (scholarship) awards are merit‑based, limited in number, focused in Academics, Arts or Sport, carry a bespoke programme of study and may include a fee reduction (the school's communications and news posts reference scholarships that can provide either 50% or 100% reductions in tuition for successful applicants). Applicants for scholarship consideration are typically identified or nominated by subject/department leaders during the admissions process (the site notes there is no separate formal application for scholarship — nominations are reviewed by a scholarship committee). In addition, the College offers bursaries for families in financial need; bursaries are awarded annually after objective means testing and the level of support is limited, so families should contact Admissions for the specific process and timeline. For full details, eligibility criteria and current deadlines consult the school's Fellowship, Scholarship and Bursaries page and the scholarship announcements on the school site.
Waitlist	Waitlist SSIS does not publish a public waitlist or central ‘pool' policy on its website pages for admissions; the admissions pages and the online admissions sections do not describe an open waiting-list procedure. Because many international schools manage places internally (for example holding offers, running year‑level capacity checks, or placing applicants ‘on hold' when classes are full) the most reliable way to learn current availability or whether you would be placed on a waitlist is to contact the Admissions Office directly (admission@ssis.asia, +86 21 6221 9288 or the enquiry form on the SSIS site). If you need a formal waitlist status for planning (work visas, housing, or timing) ask the admissions officer to confirm in writing whether a place is available or if your application will be held on a waiting list and what position or expected timeframe applies.	Waitlist Wellington College International Shanghai operates a formal waiting pool (referred to on the site as a “waiting pool”). A child is placed into the waiting pool only after the application has been completed, the assessment has been carried out and the Admissions Committee has recommended placement. The school states that the waiting pool is managed by suitability/best fit rather than strictly by application order, and that families will be contacted if a place becomes available; it also warns that not all applicants in the pool will ultimately receive an offer.
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