Selecting the right school is one of the most important decisions for expat families relocating to China. With a wide range of china schools and China International Schools available, parents seek institutions that offer strong academics, emotional support, cultural integration, and global readiness. Among these, Hangzhou International School (HIS) stands out as a trusted choice for families searching for a school that values both academic excellence and personal growth. Located in one of China’s most scenic and rapidly developing cities, HIS offers a multicultural learning environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. Here are the top reasons parents choose Hangzhou International School for their children.
One of the biggest strengths of HIS is its International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which is recognized worldwide for encouraging analytical thinking and research-based learning. The IB philosophy helps students become independent learners while preparing them for university life and future careers. HIS provides the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), ensuring a smooth academic journey from early learning to graduation.
Tips to support IB learning at home:
- Encourage your child to ask “Why?” and explore multiple solutions.
- Use past IB papers and digital learning platforms for revision.
- Develop good study habits through structured weekly schedules.
The campus environment at Hangzhou International School is designed to encourage creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning. With modern science labs, music rooms, sports arenas, collaborative classrooms, and libraries, students have access to top-tier facilities that support both academic and personal growth. The school also prioritizes safety, ensuring a comfortable environment for young learners.
How parents can leverage campus facilities:
- Encourage participation in after-school clubs and sports.
- Visit the school’s campus to understand available resources.
- Motivate your child to use libraries and learning labs regularly.
HIS takes pride in its holistic education approach, where learning extends beyond textbooks. Students are encouraged to join activities like drama, debate, robotics, Model United Nations, and community service programs. These opportunities help them build confidence, leadership skills, and creativity — especially valuable for expat children adapting to a new culture.
Ways to support holistic development:
- Expose your child to different hobbies and interests.
- Celebrate progress in skills outside of schoolwork.
- Promote teamwork through group activities at home.
One of the major reasons parents choose Hangzhou International School is its multilingual and multicultural environment. The school offers strong English-language support while promoting Mandarin learning through various proficiency levels. This helps students adjust socially and academically while preparing for a globally connected future. Language learning also builds cultural awareness and personal adaptability.
Tips for improving language skills:
- Use apps or flashcards to practice Mandarin vocabulary daily.
- Watch bilingual videos with subtitles in both languages.
- Encourage confidence in spoken English and Mandarin at home.
Pastoral care and emotional support are key strengths of HIS. The school understands the emotional challenges students may experience when adapting to a new country. Through counseling services, peer-mentoring, and tutor group systems, HIS ensures students feel supported and valued. This creates a safe space where children can express themselves and build resilience.
Emotional well-being strategies for parents:
- Have open conversations about school experiences.
- Join parent groups to build community connections.
- Notify teachers if your child is facing adjustment issues.
University guidance is another reason HIS is trusted among China International Schools. Graduates receive offers from leading institutions worldwide, including universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe. HIS provides career counseling, interview training, and guidance on personal statements — ensuring students are fully prepared for their future academic journey.
Tips to prepare for university admissions:
- Start academic planning early, especially during MYP years.
- Track extracurricular involvement and leadership roles.
- Attend school-run university workshops and fairs.
The welcoming school community at HIS plays a big role in helping families settle into life in China. With families from over 40 countries, the school promotes cultural exchange and global understanding. Events such as international fairs, language days, and parent workshops help build strong relationships among students, teachers, and families.
How to integrate into the HIS community:
- Participate in parent-teacher associations or school events.
- Encourage your child to connect with peers from different cultures.
- Volunteer for school projects or international festivals.
Final Thought – Why the Right School Matters
Hangzhou International School is a shining example of what china schools and China International Schools aim to provide — academic excellence, emotional support, cultural integration, and global readiness. By choosing the right educational environment, parents give their children the tools to grow, adapt, and succeed in a rapidly changing world. A strong school is more than a place of learning — it is a foundation for future dreams. With schools like HIS leading the way, the future of international education in China looks bright and promising.
