"QSI International School of Shekou is a private, non-profit international school located in the Shekou area of Shenzhen, China, governed by International Schools Services (ISS) of Princeton, New Jersey — a well-established organization with decades of experience supporting international education worldwide."
Founded in 2009, the school was established to serve the growing community of expatriate families and internationally mobile professionals who have made Shekou and the broader Shenzhen region their home. The school offers the International Baccalaureate curriculum, one of the most globally recognized and respected educational frameworks available. Families will find two IB programmes in place: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for younger students and the Diploma Programme (DP) for students in the senior years of secondary school. The PYP is an inquiry-based framework that encourages children to think critically, ask questions, and develop a genuine love of learning from an early age. The Diploma Programme, meanwhile, is widely accepted by universities around the world and provides older students with a rigorous, internationally recognized qualification that opens doors to higher education on virtually every continent. Together, these two programmes create a coherent and philosophically consistent educational journey for students across multiple stages of their development. As a QSI-affiliated school, the institution is part of a broader network of international schools operating in various countries, which can be a meaningful consideration for families whose careers may take them to multiple postings over the years. Children who have attended other QSI schools will find a familiar ethos and structure, easing transitions that can otherwise be disruptive to a child's education and sense of stability. Shekou itself is one of the most internationally oriented neighborhoods in all of China, situated within the Nanshan District of Shenzhen. Originally developed as a special economic zone, Shekou has long attracted multinational companies, foreign professionals, and a diverse expatriate community, giving the area a cosmopolitan character that families relocating from abroad often find welcoming and accessible. The school's location places it at the heart of this community, making it a natural gathering point for international families seeking both academic excellence and a supportive social environment for their children. English serves as the primary language of instruction, which is an important consideration for families arriving from English-speaking countries or those who prioritize English-medium education as a foundation for university pathways. The international environment of both the school and the surrounding neighborhood also offers students meaningful exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives on a daily basis. For expat families evaluating their options in Shenzhen, QSI International School of Shekou presents a compelling combination: the credibility of IB programming, the stability of ISS governance, and a location embedded within one of China's most internationally connected communities. Families are encouraged to visit the school's website at qsi. org/shenzhen or contact the admissions team directly to learn more about current programme offerings, campus facilities, and enrollment procedures.