The Best Schools To Teach In Shanghai

[International Expat]

For many international educators, the place to go is China. Not only is the pay often great, allowing you to save, but the country itself is becoming more influential on the global stage. This means that having experience in China can help you build a more impressive resume or CV for future positions.

That said, just like anywhere else, some schools are better than others. And, some locations are more desirable. In China, the best overall city to teach in is Shanghai – where you can be part of an international community and gain great experience.

We talked to some people who have taught in Shanghai, and did our own research, to come up with a list of 10 of the best schools to teach at in the city. This list isn't in any particular order – and remember, even a great school isn't right for everyone, because we're all looking for different things from our experience as an international educator.

1.    Shanghai American School. For over 100 years, considered the gold standard of international schools in Shanghai. It offers an American-based prep school education, but students can also go for an International Baccalaureate.

2.    Shanghai Community International School. The first school in the city to receive accreditation from the National Council of Curriculum and Textbooks. Run by a non-profit group in Michigan, SCIS works to provide an American educational experience in China.

3.    Yew Chung International School of Shanghai. An unusual school. It takes many aspects of a traditional UK education, but then adds in role play experiences of real-world challenges students might encounter in their adult lives. Some people describe it as a holistic learning environment. A bi-cultural learning environment is at the core of the school's mandate.

4.    The British International School. A traditional British international school with a twist: Each class gets a volunteer “Room Parent" who helps with classroom needs.  The school says, "We believe passionately in learning, and our modern approach to education continues to help our students shine. Great teachers, committed students and a community spirit that emphasizes the rewards from hard work and engagement have consistently delivered world class results at every level in the school."  Teachers at the school often stay for long periods of time.  It is part of the Nord Angelica Network of schools.

5.    Concordia International School. A Lutheran school designed not only to educate but also nurture the mind, body and spirit. In just 16 years, it grew from 22 students to well over a thousand because of its growing reputation. Friends that work there love the school and say the pay is great and the apartments are amazing.  Students at the school believe their education is top-notch and the school participates in sports around the globe. 

6.    Dulwich College of Shanghai. This is a very selective school; there are entrance exams and interviews for the student candidates. They put a high preference on children who can demonstrate artistic or athletic excellence.

7.    Western International School of Shanghai. The place to teach in Shanghai if you are interested in the arts. A huge amount of emphasis is put on creative activities and helping children understand the humanities. From one teacher, "I would add that there is a lot of emphasis on community building (Being an arts based school definitely helps define that). Everyone gets along (admin, teachers, parents, students). Was really a great group of people to work with. The schedule and workload can get demanding for core subject teachers. Makes Friday night drinks with your team all the better however. Highly recommend working there if you want to be working at a school where you feel like you are a part of the family."

8.    Britannica International School. British-owned and managed, the school is invested in STEM classes as well as making the students bilingual in Chinese and British English.

9.    Shanghai Livingston International School. Founded by former Louisiana Senator Bob Livingston. All of the classes are based on creating real-life projects in this school, and follows California education standards.

10. Shanghai SMIC. This school offers a decent package and great students. The school keeps growing and is always filled to capacity with many on the wait list.  They have one of the highest pass rates for AP classes than just about any other school.  You will work your butt off here, but it is a good experience for most teachers.

cc InternationalEducators.com 2017