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The Secondary grades at the Western International School of Shanghai offer students an unparalleled International Baccalaureate education within a caring and internationally diverse community. Students are at the center of everything we do, and the variety and quality of academic, athletic, artistic, and extracurricular options available to students is something we are very proud of.
Our students develop their knowledge, skills, and conceptual understanding through inquiry facilitated by caring and supportive teachers. Secondary students participate in experiential and collaborative learning opportunities with increasing depth and specialization, including in-depth science labs, artistic expression through creation and composition, musicals and plays, and various curricular and extracurricular physical education and athletics.
WELCOME MESSAGE | SECONDARY PRINCIPAL
Welcome to SECONDARY
The Secondary grades at the Western International School of Shanghai offer students an unparalleled International Baccalaureate education within a caring and internationally diverse community. Students are at the center of everything we do, and the variety and quality of academic, athletic, artistic, and extracurricular options available to students is something we are very proud of.
Our students develop their knowledge, skills, and conceptual understanding through inquiry facilitated by caring and supportive teachers. Secondary students participate in experiential and collaborative learning opportunities with increasing depth and specialization, including in-depth science labs, artistic expression through creation and composition, musicals and plays, and various curricular and extracurricular physical education and athletics.
WELCOME MESSAGE | SECONDARY PRINCIPAL
Welcome to SECONDARY
SECONDARY CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
At the Western International School of Shanghai, the International Baccalaureate is in our DNA. We stand out from other IB schools in China because we offer unparalleled choices to our students. WISS is the only school in mainland China that offers all four IB programmes, and three of the IB programmes (IBMYP, IBDP, and IBCP) are housed in the Secondary.
Students also have an incredible number of choices for learning languages – an essential part of our mission to create internationally-minded global citizens. Students can take language acquisition and language and literature classes in English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, German, and French with multiple phases and levels that support students and ensure their language development. Similarly, we offer a wide breadth of options in the Creative Arts, Humanities, Sciences, and across the curriculum. Offering many choices in every school aspect helps us keep class sizes low to facilitate the high quality of learning and teaching that we are known for.
IB LEARNER PROFILE
In Secondary, the journey for our children from the start of Grade 6 to graduation day in Grade 12 is one of tremendous growth in self-discovery and intellect. As part of a vibrant international community, we embrace all our learners and provide the support and the structure to allow our students to develop into mature, confident, and independent young people ready for the world’s challenges. Everything that we do at school encourages our graduates to exhibit the qualities and traits of the IB Learner Profile: Knowledgeable, Inquirers, Reflective, Communicators, Open-minded, Thinkers, Principled, Inquirers, and Caring. By embracing the IB Learner Profile attributes and through purposeful learning opportunities, WISS is committed to developing global citizens who:
– Value the culture, language, and unique histories of others
– Act upon local and global issues
– Advocate for fairness, justice, respect, and equity
– Promote sustainable development
High-Quality
Teaching
& learning
SECONDARY CURRICULUM Overview
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
At the Western International School of Shanghai, the International Baccalaureate is in our DNA. We stand out from other IB schools in China because we offer unparalleled choices to our students. WISS is the only school in mainland China that offers all four IB programmes, and three of the IB programmes (IBMYP, IBDP, and IBCP) are housed in the Secondary.
Students also have an incredible number of choices for learning languages – an essential part of our mission to create internationally-minded global citizens. Students can take language acquisition and language and literature classes in English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, German, and French with multiple phases and levels that support students and ensure their language development. Similarly, we offer a wide breadth of options in the Creative Arts, Humanities, Sciences, and across the curriculum. Offering many choices in every school aspect helps us keep class sizes low to facilitate the high quality of learning and teaching that we are known for.
IB LEARNER PROFILE
In Secondary, the journey for our children from the start of Grade 6 to graduation day in Grade 12 is one of tremendous growth in self-discovery and intellect. As part of a vibrant international community, we embrace all our learners and provide the support and the structure to allow our students to develop into mature, confident, and independent young people ready for the world’s challenges. Everything that we do at school encourages our graduates to exhibit the qualities and traits of the IB Learner Profile: Knowledgeable, Inquirers, Reflective, Communicators, Open-minded, Thinkers, Principled, Inquirers, and Caring. By embracing the IB Learner Profile attributes and through purposeful learning opportunities, WISS is committed to developing global citizens who:
– Value the culture, language, and unique histories of others
– Act upon local and global issues
– Advocate for fairness, justice, respect, and equity
– Promote sustainable development
High-Quality
Teaching
& learning
EXPORE OUR Secondary Programmes
EXPORE OUR Secondary Programmes
IB Middle Years Programme
IB DipLOMA Programme
IB CAREER RELATED Programme
IB MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMME (MYP)
The Middle Years Program (IBMYP) is for students aged 11-16 at the Western International School of Shanghai. This programme builds upon the inquiry-driven and concept-focused foundation created during the PYP. IBMYP students deepen their disciplinary understanding in the subject areas while focusing on key concepts and interdisciplinary links that tie subject areas together – such as Systems, Relationships, Logic, and Creativity.
Students can make connections across subjects and link prior learning to new material by focusing on concepts. We also strongly believe that learning happens best when set in a specific Global Context. Students are guided to approach units of inquiry through a contextual lens of Globalization and Sustainability, Scientific and Technical Innovation, Fairness and Development, etc.
Learning in the IBMYP programme is recognized at the end of Grade 10 with the awarding of the IBMYP Certificate to those who complete the rigorous requirements of the Personal Project, ePortfolios, meaningful Service as Action, and eAssessments.
Routines
IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (DP)
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) at the Western International School of Shanghai offers students a well-rounded, rigorous, and internationally recognized curriculum.
The IBDP seeks to develop breadth and depth of knowledge, and WISS students have a wide range of options within the IBDP model. Students also extend their learning across the disciplines through the DP Core:
Theory of Knowledge,
Extended Essay,
CAS
Routines
IB CAREER-RELATED PROGRAMME (IBCP)
The Career-related Programme (IBCP) is an excellent choice for Grade 11 and 12 students who have already decided on a career path and would like to specialize and even earn college credit during high school.
The IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) facilitates an in-depth exploration of a career-related study complemented by study in selected IBDP courses.
The Reflective Project is an academic research paper examining an ethical dilemma related to their career-related study. Students also complete the Personal and Professional Skills course to prepare for professional conduct and personal life skills.
Routines
The Western International School of Shanghai is the first and only full-continuum IB World School in mainland China offering the four programmes of the International Baccalaureate (IB):
This allows us to provide the entire and unbroken IB curriculum model leading to the world's most sought-after qualification for university entry.
At WISS, we are dedicated to the IB Mission of creating a better world through education. As an IB World School, WISS has been visited, inspected, and approved by the International Baccalaureate Organization.
IB World Schools maintain their high quality through the regular professional development of staff, effective delivery of cutting-edge teaching practice, and a rigorous approach to inquiry-based learning. Schools authorized by the IB must put students at the center of everything they do, treat learning holistically from multiple perspectives, emphasize strong communication skills, and promote intercultural awareness. The IB conducts regular evaluations to ensure schools provide a learning culture aligned with its international philosophy and goals.
Welcome,
At the Western International School of Shanghai, we believe secondary students are at a unique stage in their lives – a time when they are exploring their identity, seeking greater independence, and developing aspirations. Therefore, we are committed to providing learning experiences relevant to their individual journey.
Through a safe and nurturing learning environment supported by caring teams of teachers, our programmes provide each student with opportunities to explore, inquire, and develop confidence.
Our rigorous academic programmes are designed to help students connect with the world around them and equip them with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for life both within and beyond school.
Core academic subjects are balanced with elective and exploratory classes in the arts and technology, physical health education, and languages.
Through the WISS Education, our experienced teachers strive to meet each student’s unique learning needs. To this end, the students themselves become not passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in their learning, while our classrooms are transformed into places of engagement, debate, student choice, and consideration.
For our learners to achieve academic success and personal growth, we believe their affective needs must be nurtured.With this in mind, our advisory program is designed to meet the developmental needs of our students, foster relationships, and shape the community while providing an adult advocate for every student. Furthermore, our academic program is balanced with a diverse offering of extra-curricular sports and activities, opportunities for leadership, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
As a community of learners, we constantly strive to be the best we can be.
Distinguishing programs
Global Alliance for Innovative Learning
Savannah College
of Art & Design
Stoke City
Football Club
Sustainability Management School Switzerland
First Point
USA
The Duke of Edinburgh’s
Award
International Schools
Theatre Association
Forest
School
University GUIDANCE OFFICE
University GUIDANCE OFFICE
learn more about the University Guidance Program at the Western International School of Shanghai, our University Acceptances, and useful tips for applying to university on our University Guidance Page
LEARN MORE
EXPORE Secondary
ROUTINES
Students in Secondary follow a rigorous and varied academic program each day. Students in the Middle Years Programme take a broad range of classes, including Physical Education, Visual Arts, Music, Media, Drama, and Dance, and can choose from various Language Acquisition and Language and Literature classes. In the IBCP and IBDP, students can select from an impressive number of courses, including History, Geography, Economics, Business, and Psychology in the Humanities field alone. Additionally, IBCP students follow a routine centered around their selected career-related study while also undertaking the core requirements, including the challenging Reflective Project.
Social and emotional learning is a core component throughout every programme at WISS. Each day, Secondary students have advisory meetings with a small group of 6 or 7 students. A caring mentor-teacher leads community circle discussions around social and emotional development, organization, self-management, academic skills, and life skills. Advisory time is also used to support student goal setting, self-reflection, and community service initiatives.
Finally, the IB program enhances classroom learning at WISS through various core elements. Grade 10 students work throughout the year to create a culminating Personal Project, and showcasing their work is a highlight for them and the entire community. Extending this, our IBCP and IBDP students complete Service Learning and Creativity, Activity, and Service and write high-level academic research papers through the Reflective Project and Extended Essays.
ACTIVITIES
At the Western International School of Shanghai, we provide many opportunities for students to participate in activities that allow them to grow and develop as individuals outside of the classroom. CP pathways in various topics, including Aeronautics, Sports, Business Management, Art, and Design, offer a unique path for dedicated and driven students in these career areas. WISS has an active Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Programme and supports all students to participate in adventurous journeys and residential projects. Students in Grades 6-10 take their learning outside the school walls through our week-long Explore China trips.
These annual trips build bonds through physical activity, cultural experiences, community service, and adventure. Students have so many ways to get involved in school life through our robust extracurricular and after-school activity program. Students can participate in clubs and activities like Model United Nations, Stoke City FC Academy, Saturday School, the Global Alliance for Innovative Learning, the annual Secondary Musical, Summer Internship Opportunities, and more.
Students are encouraged to get involved in the many opportunities for student leadership, activity, creativity, and service at WISS. With exceptional athletics, creative arts, and STEM facilities, engaging students through clubs and activities is a natural extension of classroom learning and a lot of fun!
The Student Council meets regularly and offers students a voice in school decisions and policy. The iShare group is a student-led initiative that aims to create inclusive and fun events in Secondary and the entire WISS community.
The Student Experience
HOME-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP
Students joining Secondary are supported through a detailed orientation, school tour, a WISS Student Handbook, and a buddy to guide the student around.
Similarly, at WISS, the parents of children in Secondary often enjoy parent evenings, socials, clubs, concerts, exhibitions, plays, and after-school community activities, including the Community Orchestra and Community Choir. Many parents also actively support the school through volunteer work. Events such as the WISS Sundowner, “WISStival,” International Day, and many others showcase what we feel is a unique and vital partnership and community.
TEACHING APPROACH
Learning and teaching in Secondary features small class sizes supported by knowledgeable and caring staff. Teachers facilitate student inquiry through engaging units and topics that build on students’ prior knowledge. We believe that student learning is best accomplished through experiential and cooperative tasks.
Throughout the three IB programmes delivered in Secondary, students explore conceptual topics, make multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary connections, and develop as global citizens.
A Typical Day in SECONDARY
Student Arrive and Settle In
Selected Subjects
Selected Subjects
Break Time & Refreshments
Selected Subjects
Selected Subjects
Lunch Time
Selected Subjects
Selected Subjects
Students prepare to depart from campus
explore THE WISS Exclusive distinguishing programs
Upcoming events
EXPORE SECONDARY
ROUTINES
ACTIVITIES
THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE
WESTERN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHANGHAI
555 Lian Min Road, Xujing Town, Qing Pu District,
Shanghai, PRC, 201702
Admissions 1
Admissions 2
OFFICIAL WECHAT
The Western International School of Shanghai is the first and only full-continuum IB World School in mainland China offering the four programmes of the International Baccalaureate (IB).
This allows us to provide the entire and unbroken IB curriculum model leading to the world's most sought-after qualification for university entry.
At WISS, we are dedicated to the IB Mission of creating a better world through education. As an IB World School, WISS has been visited, inspected, and approved by the International Baccalaureate Organization.
IB World Schools maintain their high quality through the regular professional development of staff, effective delivery of cutting-edge teaching practice, and a rigorous approach to inquiry-based learning. Schools authorized by the IB must put students at the center of everything they do, treat learning holistically from multiple perspectives, emphasize strong communication skills, and promote intercultural awareness. The IB conducts regular evaluations to ensure schools provide a learning culture aligned with its international philosophy and goals.
WESTERN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHANGHAI
555 Lian Min Road, Xujing Town, Qing Pu District,
Shanghai, PRC, 201702
OFFICIAL WECHAT
The Middle Years Program (IBMYP) is for students aged 11-16 at the Western International School of Shanghai. This programme builds upon the inquiry-driven and concept-focused foundation created during the PYP. IBMYP students deepen their disciplinary understanding in the subject areas while focusing on key concepts and interdisciplinary links that tie subject areas together – such as Systems, Relationships, Logic, and Creativity.
Students can make connections across subjects and link prior learning to new material by focusing on concepts. We also strongly believe that learning happens best when set in a specific Global Context. Students are guided to approach units of inquiry through a contextual lens of Globalization and Sustainability, Scientific and Technical Innovation, Fairness and Development, etc.
Learning in the IBMYP programme is recognized at the end of Grade 10 with the awarding of the IBMYP Certificate to those who complete the rigorous requirements of the Personal Project, ePortfolios, meaningful Service as Action, and eAssessments.
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) at the Western International School of Shanghai offers students a well-rounded, rigorous, and internationally recognized curriculum.
The IBDP seeks to develop breadth and depth of knowledge, and WISS students have a wide range of options within the IBDP model. Students also extend their learning across the disciplines through the DP Core:
Theory of Knowledge,
Extended Essay,
CAS
The Career-related Programme (IBCP) is an excellent choice for Grade 11 and 12 students who have already decided on a career path and would like to specialize and even earn college credit during high school.
The IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) facilitates an in-depth exploration of a career-related study complemented by study in selected IBDP courses.
The CP Core is composed of the
Reflective Project,
Personal and Professional Skills course,
Service Learning, and
self-directed language development.
The Reflective Project is an academic research paper examining an ethical dilemma related to their career-related study. Students also complete the Personal and Professional Skills course to prepare for professional conduct and personal life skills.
Students in Secondary follow a rigorous and varied academic program each day. Students in the Middle Years Programme take a broad range of classes, including Physical Education, Visual Arts, Music, Media, Drama, and Dance, and can choose from various Language Acquisition and Language and Literature classes. In the IBCP and IBDP, students can select from an impressive number of courses, including History, Geography, Economics, Business, and Psychology in the Humanities field alone. Additionally, IBCP students follow a routine centered around their selected career-related study while also undertaking the core requirements, including the challenging Reflective Project.
Social and emotional learning is a core component throughout every programme at WISS. Each day, Secondary students have advisory meetings with a small group of 6 or 7 students. A caring mentor-teacher leads community circle discussions around social and emotional development, organization, self-management, academic skills, and life skills. Advisory time is also used to support student goal setting, self-reflection, and community service initiatives.
Finally, the IB program enhances classroom learning at WISS through various core elements. Grade 10 students work throughout the year to create a culminating Personal Project, and showcasing their work is a highlight for them and the entire community. Extending this, our IBCP and IBDP students complete Service Learning and Creativity, Activity, and Service and write high-level academic research papers through the Reflective Project and Extended Essays.
At the Western International School of Shanghai, we provide many opportunities for students to participate in activities that allow them to grow and develop as individuals outside of the classroom. CP pathways in various topics, including Aeronautics, Sports, Business Management, Art, and Design, offer a unique path for dedicated and driven students in these career areas. WISS has an active Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Programme and supports all students to participate in adventurous journeys and residential projects. Students in Grades 6-10 take their learning outside the school walls through our week-long Explore China trips.
These annual trips build bonds through physical activity, cultural experiences, community service, and adventure. Students have so many ways to get involved in school life through our robust extracurricular and after-school activity program. Students can participate in clubs and activities like Model United Nations, Stoke City FC Academy, Saturday School, the Global Alliance for Innovative Learning, the annual Secondary Musical, Summer Internship Opportunities, and more.
Students are encouraged to get involved in the many opportunities for student leadership, activity, creativity, and service at WISS. With exceptional athletics, creative arts, and STEM facilities, engaging students through clubs and activities is a natural extension of classroom learning and a lot of fun!
The Student Council meets regularly and offers students a voice in school decisions and policy. The iShare group is a student-led initiative that aims to create inclusive and fun events in Secondary and the entire WISS community.
HOME-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP
Students joining Secondary are supported through a detailed orientation, school tour, a WISS Student Handbook, and a buddy to guide the student around.
Similarly, at WISS, the parents of children in Secondary often enjoy parent evenings, socials, clubs, concerts, exhibitions, plays, and after-school community activities, including the Community Orchestra and Community Choir. Many parents also actively support the school through volunteer work. Events such as the WISS Sundowner, “WISStival,” International Day, and many others showcase what we feel is a unique and vital partnership and community.
TEACHING APPROACH
Learning and teaching in Secondary features small class sizes supported by knowledgeable and caring staff. Teachers facilitate student inquiry through engaging units and topics that build on students’ prior knowledge. We believe that student learning is best accomplished through experiential and cooperative tasks.
Throughout the three IB programmes delivered in Secondary, students explore conceptual topics, make multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary connections, and develop as global citizens.
A Typical Day in SECONDARY
8-8.30am
Student Arrive and Settle In
8.30-9.25am
Selected Subjects
9.30-10.25am
Selected Subjects
10.25-10.45am
Break Time & Refreshments
10.45-11.40am
Selected Subjects
11.45am-12.40pm
Selected Subjects
12.40-1.25pm
Lunch Time
1.25-2.20pm
Selected Subjects
2.30-3.20pm
Selected Subjects
Students prepare to depart from campus
WISS FEATURED NEWS
Upcoming events
WELCOME
WISS Academic Programmes and approached to teaching and learning.
WISS Academic Programmes and approaches to teaching and learning.
Learn more about where WISS Graduates attend University.
Our Vision & Mission, Quality Education , and Global Citizenship
High-Quality, World-Class Education available at WISS.
15+ Years of Excellence in Education. See how WISS has grown and developed since 2006.
Discover how WISS enhances student learning experiences through exclusive partnerships.
CAMPUS LIFE
CAMPUS LIFE
Explore the WISS Campus, our classrooms and facilities through photos, video and Virtual Tour options.
Discover the wide-variety of activities, sports, music, and arts options available to students at WISS.
Learn more about the School Bus Service, School Uniform, Meals, and Health & Safety available to students at WISS.
Read about excursions and the WISS exclusive Explore Shanghai, Explore China, and Global Citizen Trips
ADMISSIONS
Introduction message from the Director of Admissions & Marketing.
Learn why parents choose WISS for the education of their children.
Explore the Academic merit-based scholarship programme for high-achieving students.
A Step-by-Step Guide to applying for admission to WISS.
See what is included in the WISS Tuition Fees, Payment Information and Refund Policy.
Eligibility and student placement information.
Discover the benefits of a WISS Education directly from our students and parents.
Document requirements for Admissions.
WORLD OF WISS
Explore what happening at WISS, news on student achievements, sports and cultural events.
Videos of activities, events, , parent workshops, and info session recordings at WISS.
Programs unique to WISS that truly enhance the student learning experience.
Upcoming Events and Past Events
Photos of events and activities at WISS.
An Information Hub designed for WISS parents to stay connected and informed.
CONTACT US
Admissions 1
Admissions 2
WHY WISS
A roadmap from 2006 to now. 15+ Years as a leader in international education in Shanghai.
From Dance Studio’s to Forest School, WISS offer top-quality facilities that enhance and support the student learning experience.
The inspiration behind the founding of WISS.
Learn the qualities we nurture within our students every day.
Get to know the highly-qualified and experienced faculty at the Western International School of Shanghai.
Develop your career as an educator and explore available positions at the Western International School of Shanghai.
Interactive Campus Map to help parents and students discover what has to offer.
ACADEMICS
A Pre-Nursery through Kindergarten Education for Children aged 2.5 - 5 Years Old
A look at the IB Programmes and how it’s rigorous academic programmes benefit student learning at WISS.
Primary Education for Children aged 6 - 12 Years Old
Support, Guidance, and Student Pathways to University.
Secondary Education for Children aged 13 - 18+ Years Old
Programs unique to WISS that truly enhance the student learning experience.
Welcome,
At the Western International School of Shanghai, we believe secondary students are at a unique stage in their lives – a time when they are exploring their identity, seeking greater independence, and developing aspirations. Therefore, we are committed to providing learning experiences relevant to their individual journey.
Through a safe and nurturing learning environment supported by caring teams of teachers, our programmes provide each student with opportunities to explore, inquire, and develop confidence.
Our rigorous academic programmes are designed to help students connect with the world around them and equip them with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for life both within and beyond school.
Core academic subjects are balanced with elective and exploratory classes in the arts and technology, physical health education, and languages.
Through the WISS Education, our experienced teachers strive to meet each student’s unique learning needs. To this end, the students themselves become not passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in their learning, while our classrooms are transformed into places of engagement, debate, student choice, and consideration.
For our learners to achieve academic success and personal growth, we believe their affective needs must be nurtured.With this in mind, our advisory program is designed to meet the developmental needs of our students, foster relationships, and shape the community while providing an adult advocate for every student. Furthermore, our academic program is balanced with a diverse offering of extra-curricular sports and activities, opportunities for leadership, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
As a community of learners, we constantly strive to be the best we can be.
Evi Singleton
Secondary Principal
