Remember the JISE International School Fair? For over fifteen years, it was a major event on our calendars. But over time, its impact faded. Why? Because the traditional format—crowded halls and quick chats at booths—stopped meeting what families really needed.

Parents told us they wanted more. They wanted to genuinely feel a school’s community and values, not just collect brochures. So, we evolved.

We took the core purpose of JISE and transformed it into something deeper: Culturopolis.

We’re giving a select group of top-tier schools a bigger stage for real interaction. We then built on that foundation with what we do best: creating vibrant, authentic community experiences. This means a dedicated **international food festival** with unique global cuisines, a lively **community stage** featuring our second International School Battle of the Bands, and a bustling **market** with over 60 creative vendors. A dedicated **services zone** brings together essential health and wellness resources for internationally minded families.

This is the new model. It’s an experiential, engaging space designed for connection, not just information.

Culturopolis is where your school’s community can be felt, not just described. It’s where families spend a day belonging, not just shopping. This is where you need to be.

Join us to help build this new annual tradition.
January 31 & February 1. Connect. Belong. Thrive.

Attendance is free with advanced registration

We still have a few booths and sponsorship opportunities available! Contact TBJ Butler for deets.

Images: The Beijinger

Not only is tomorrow’s Jingkids International School Expo a great place for you to learn about dozens of educational choices for your child, it’s a great place to pick up some freebies.

First and foremost: the first 200 arrivals to the Jingkids booth will get their pick of RMB 100 vouchers to some of The Jing’s nicest eateries: Home Plate, Turkish Feast, QMex, The Local, Pizza Hut, Georgia’s Feast, GungHo!, COMMUNE and Big Joe’s to name a few. After visiting the fair and learning a thing or two about international schools in Beijing, take your voucher with your family in tow and enjoy a discounted meal. First come, first served!

Additionally, you’ll find some additional surprises for adults and children alike sprinkled in amongst the school booths:

Mind Gym Lab is a revolutionary workout that works the body and mind simultaneously, which helps sharpen focus, decision-making, reflexes, and problem-solving skills. Their training programs are tailored for athletes, students, rehab needs, and brain health enthusiasts. They’ll be offering visitors an RMB 800 voucher for their Cognitive Neuro-Response Assessment.

Secondly, the first 100 kids to visit Ms Jennifer Design Space booth at JISE can receive a RMB 600 Voucher to join her Harvard Design Thinking Classes! Tailored for students aged 6-18, this voucher grants access to a dynamic learning experience where young minds explore a new creative topic each week, from fashion and product design to graphic arts. Designed by Jennifer, an award-winning RISD graduate and former Education Director of Creative Arts at Dulwich International, these courses foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

There will also be surprises for kids from Purple Bamboo Chinese School and free Spanish language classes for adults from SpeakWhale Education!

All in all, a trip to JISE will pay off not only in terms of helping you decide the next step for your child but with valuable freebies as well!

See you at China World Summit Wing this Saturday, Feb 22 from 9am to 5pm.

Images: Courtesy of vendors, Jingkids

I recently had a conversation with a friend whose daughter, now in seventh grade, wanted to travel to her friend’s home country for two weeks. My friend wasn’t comfortable allowing her daughter to travel unaccompanied but felt hesitant to say no, fearing her daughter wouldn’t understand. She asked for my advice.

I responded with two simple questions: Do you know the other child’s parents? What are their family customs and values?

To my surprise, she couldn’t answer. This exchange made me reflect on how many parents enroll their children in schools without fully understanding the school’s culture and values.

While academics are often the priority, the environment in which children learn plays a crucial role in shaping their character, confidence, and social skills. A school’s approach to collaboration, discipline, inclusivity, and even conflict resolution reflects its deeper values.

When choosing a school, I encourage parents to look beyond rankings and curriculum. Observe how teachers interact with students, how diversity is celebrated, and whether the school’s philosophy aligns with your family’s core beliefs. Small moments—like a conversation between students in the hallway—can reveal more about a school’s culture than any brochure ever could.

In “Choosing the Best International School for Your Child,” I emphasize how vital it is for parents to assess school culture firsthand. After all, a school’s values will influence your child’s development just as much as the lessons taught in the classroom.

Curious to dive deeper into this topic? Discover more insights in my book, which is available now.

Scan the QR code below to purchase a copy of the book.

Be sure to mark your calendars to attend this year’s Jingkids International School Expo (JISE) on Feb 22 at China World Summit Wing where you’ll get to meet Beijing’s top international schools and help your child find the school that suits their needs.

With over ten years of experience in education, Malcolm Solomon, M. Ed. has worked in diverse settings, from classrooms in America to China. These experiences have allowed Solomon to adapt and integrate the best practices from both environments, continuously improving his skills as an educator. Throughout his career, he has remained dedicated to fostering strong, positive relationships with students while delivering impactful instruction. His varied roles in the field of education equip him with a wealth of knowledge and expertise to contribute meaningfully to any program.

Images: Malcolm Solomon, Pexels

Mark your calendars for Feb 22, as the annual Jingkids International School Expo is set to take place at China World Summit Wing, bringing together some of the most prestigious international schools in Beijing under one roof.

This expo is not just an ordinary event; it’s a golden opportunity for you to explore the unique features and offerings of various international schools. Each participating school will showcase what makes them stand out from the rest. Whether it’s their innovative teaching methods, state-of-the-art facilities, diverse extracurricular activities, or a globally-recognized curriculum, you’ll get an in-depth look at what your child could potentially be a part of.

One of the major advantages of attending this expo is the chance to have all your education-related questions answered.

Have you been wondering about the admission requirements, tuition fees, or the school’s approach to individualized learning? The experts and representatives from these international schools will be on-site, ready to have one-on-one conversations with you. They will provide detailed and accurate information, helping you make an informed decision about your child’s education.

Moreover, the Jingkids International School Expo goes beyond just school information. It offers a platform for you to work with education professionals to map out a long-term career path for your child. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the global job market and the skills required to succeed in different fields. By understanding your child’s interests, talents, and academic strengths, they can offer valuable advice on the educational choices that will best prepare your child for future career opportunities.

In today’s highly competitive and globalized world, choosing the right school for your child is crucial. It can shape their academic journey, personal growth, and future success. The Jingkids International School Expo on Feb 22 is the perfect starting point for this important decision-making process. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with top international schools, gain valuable insights, and set your child on the path to a bright future.

Come along with an open mind and a list of questions. Let the Jingkids International School Expo be the first step in creating an educational plan that will help your child thrive in the international arena.

Images: jingkids

Are you a parent on a quest to find the best educational path for your child? Look no further than the upcoming Jingkids International School Expo (JISE) taking place on Feb 22 at China World Summit Wing. This is an unmissable opportunity for parents to gain insights and make well-informed decisions about their children’s educational futures.

At JISE, you will get to meet the teams behind Beijing’s top international schools. These are the professionals who shape the educational experiences of thousands of students, bringing in innovative teaching methods, international curricula, and a diverse range of extracurricular activities. In one afternoon, you can ask all the burning questions you have and get them answered. From the admission requirements of each school to the unique features of each curriculum, international school employees will be there to provide detailed and accurate answers.

One of the biggest advantages of attending this event is the chance to compare different schools side-by-side. You can learn about the differences in teaching philosophies, the student-teacher ratios, and the facilities available at each institution. This comprehensive view will enable you to figure out which school aligns best with your child’s interests, talents, and learning style. Whether your child is a budding artist, a math whiz, or a sports enthusiast, there will be a school that can nurture their potential.

Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to set your child on the path to a bright future. Mark your calendars for the Jingkids International School Expo and take the first step towards finding the ideal educational environment for your little one.

See you there!

Images: jingkids

As parents, our collective aim is to give our children the best possible start in life. A crucial part of achieving this goal involves selecting a school that meets our children’s unique needs and aspirations. While it’s tempting to assume that all international schools are similar, the reality is much more nuanced. Each institution offers distinct curricula and strengths that can greatly influence a child’s education and future career paths.

Enter the Jingkids International School Expo (JISE), an annual event that serves as a guiding light for parents navigating their child’s educational journey. JISE goes beyond being just a gathering of major international schools; it’s a transformative experience that enhances the process of selecting a school.

What makes JISE stand out is its innovative approach, which goes beyond traditional school fairs by incorporating intimate discussion sessions. These sessions provide a platform for parents to interact with educators and experts on topics of genuine importance. JISE is more than just a platform for school connections; it’s an educational hub that keeps parents updated on the latest trends in education. Additionally, it provides a safe space for parents to address their questions and concerns with experienced professionals.

This year, JISE takes it a step further with PechaKucha-style presentations from Beijing’s top international schools. These concise presentations allow schools to showcase their proudest achievements in 20-second-long slides, ensuring efficiency and directness.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming JISE this weekend, we’re thrilled to announce that the first round of speakers for the PechaKucha-style presentations has been selected. These dynamic speakers represent some of the top international schools in Beijing, ready to showcase their unique strengths and educational philosophies in concise and engaging presentations. With their expertise and passion, they will offer valuable insights into what sets their schools apart and why they could be the perfect fit for your child’s educational journey. Stay tuned for more updates as we unveil the full lineup of speakers, promising an event filled with inspiration and informative discussions.

Want to find out who you’ll be hearing from? Check out the list of guest speakers for Saturday.

Excitement is brewing as 30 international schools from Beijing will be in attendance, ready to share their unique offerings and engage with parents on a personal level.

Get ready to be thrilled and inspired! Attending JISE isn’t just about finding the right school; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of education. This expo empowers parents to make informed decisions, ensuring that their children embark on a learning journey tailored to their individual needs. Don’t miss the chance to shape your child’s future. Join us at JISE and take the next step toward unlocking your child’s full potential on Mar 23 from 9am to 5pm at the Signature Ballroom at Hilton Beijing.

Find it:
Hilton Beijing 北京希尔顿酒店
1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区东三环北路东方路1号

Images: jingkids

Sat, Mar 23, kicks off this year’s Jingkids International School Expo (JISE). Renowned international school principals and admissions officers from over 30 prestigious Beijing international schools will engage in lightning-fast PechaKucha-style speeches. It’s a school selection exhibition that cuts straight to the chase, delivering practical and valuable information without any unnecessary fluff.

This is an efficient school selection exhibition that is completely focused on understanding parents’ needs, avoiding internal friction and traditional marketing tactics.

The biggest innovation of JISE this year is to take a different approach from traditional school expos. Instead of flashy performances that parents easily forget and schools boasting about themselves, schools will succinctly outline their most attractive features to parents in just 6 minutes and 40 seconds.

Can a school effectively communicate its core strengths and address parents’ concerns in the simplest and clearest language possible? Can a representative from the school present their values and the school’s educational philosophy in just 400 seconds, attracting students and families with similar beliefs to join them?

This is a test for both the presenters and the schools themselves. Those who dare to take on this challenge are pioneers and demonstrate their strength.

Let’s meet a few of the speakers.

Jayne Needham is Principal of The British School of Beijing – Shunyi Campus

With over 35 years of experience in education, Jayne has spent 18 years serving in leadership positions at IB international schools in the UK, Dubai, Bahrain, and China. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from the University of Exeter in the UK and is certified by the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) program.

Jayne is a lifelong learner and educator who began her career as a mathematics teacher. Over the years, she has taken on various roles, accumulating rich experience in improving teaching quality and enhancing student learning experiences.

In August 2021, Jayne assumed the role of principal at The British School of Beijing – Shunyi Campus. This diverse and dynamic school has provided her with immense motivation to inspire students to set ambitious goals and achieve excellence in both academics and personal development. She is dedicated to making positive contributions to the school, community, and the world at large.

Scott Pare is Director of the Secondary School Department at Tsinghua International School (THIS)

Originally from Ontario, Canada, Scott Pare obtained his teaching certification and principal’s certificate there. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Brock University in Ontario, Canada, and a master’s degree from Columbia University in New York, USA.

Over the past 25 years, he has held positions at schools in Canada, South Korea, and China.

Throughout his career, Mr. Pare has served as a teacher, college counselor, curriculum coordinator, and vice principal. He advocates for improving the student experience, supporting students to make independent choices in their learning, and providing opportunities for growth through a variety of extracurricular activities.

Mr. Pare believes that relationships are fundamental to an excellent educational program, and he has established strong relationships and friendships with every member of the THIS community.

Linda Lin serves as Assistant Vice President for Group Strategic Development and College Counseling at HD School

Linda graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). During her high school years, she studied at Headington School in the UK, achieving top scores in A-level mathematics and economics, and an outstanding IELTS score of 8.5.

With a unique perspective on providing high-quality international education to Chinese students, Lin Yue is dedicated to helping students find their direction and position in the globalized world.

As a founding member and director of HD School, Linda has been involved in establishing schools in various cities including Ningbo in 2014, Shanghai in 2016, Beijing in 2017, Qingdao in 2018, and Nanjing in 2021. She has assisted students in successfully gaining admission to prestigious universities such as Cambridge and Oxford. Linda has also visited over 100 top schools in the UK and the US, including St. Paul’s School/Milton Academy on the east coast of the US, High Tech High on the west coast, as well as historic institutions like Winchester College and Eton College in the UK.

Allen McInnis serves as Head of Early Years/Primary School at the Beijing Canadian International School

With over 20 years of experience in the field of education, Allen McInnis brings extensive expertise to his role, including six years of administrative management and coordination.

He holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and management/curriculum and instruction from the United States.

Previously, Allen held positions at various schools, including as the deputy head of high school academic affairs at GEMS Al-Khaleej National School in Dubai, and as the MYP coordinator and PYP mathematics and assessment coordinator at GEMS World Academy in Dubai.

Earlier in his career, he served as the head of the mathematics department at J.B. Tyrell Sr. Public School in Ontario, Canada.

Grace Xia serves as Principal at the Ivy Academy Sanyuanqiao Campus

With 12 years of experience in the international early childhood education industry, Grace is dedicated to creating a safe, free, and loving environment where children feel encouraged to be themselves and dare to explore.

She’s always believed that good early childhood education should encourage children to bravely express themselves and dare to pursue their dreams. Each child is a unique landscape with different talents and interests. As a principal, her mission is to create a safe, free, and loving environment where children feel happy to be themselves and dare to be themselves.

Ivy Academy strives to help children develop a mindset of questioning and exploring, enabling them to think and communicate clearly and precisely while consistently pursuing excellence in all things. They aim to instill in every child the courage for change and inspiration, helping them become brave innovators. Simultaneously, we highly value communication and collaboration with parents, working together to create a harmonious and nurturing growth space for the children.

In addition to the presentations, JISE has created as many opportunities as possible for parents to engage with schools as directly as possible. After each session, parents can interact with speakers and school representatives in the auditorium, posing questions directly to school administrators and principals to deepen their understanding. Throughout the day, there will be over 30 international school consultation booths set up outside, offering a comprehensive overview of Beijing’s top international schools, all in one convenient location.

This year’s JISE is only for one day, so please plan your time accordingly.

We have carefully selected over 30 top-tier international schools in Beijing to participate. Renowned school principals, admissions officers, and frontline educators will engage with parents face-to-face, aiming to swiftly address the challenges of school selection.

This time, we aim to break free from the international education market’s longstanding conventions without deviating from its original goal.

Join us on Mar 23 from 9am to 5pm at the Beijing Hilton Hotel! We look forward to seeing you there!

Find it:
Hilton Beijing 北京希尔顿酒店
1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区东三环北路东方路1号

Images: jingkids

Get ready to splash into vibrant hues and festive joy because Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, is just around the corner – and Beijing is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration. Picture this: a rooftop extravaganza with bursts of color against the skyline! We chatted with Arun Moger for the inside scoop on the traditions of this lively festival and what to expect from the upcoming rooftop bash at MOONEE on Mar 24.

Q: Could you break down what Holi is for the uninitiated?
A: It’s a festival where spring rolls out the red carpet and colors fly like confetti. That’s Holi for you, a Hindu festival that’s a big deal in India and beyond. It’s the kind of party that welcomes spring with a rainbow splash.

Q: Holi’s all about colors, right? What’s the deal with that?
A: Oh, it’s a color carnival, alright! Imagine every hue in a powder form, ready to be launched at friends and strangers alike. But it’s not just a free-for-all paint fight – it’s steeped in mythology. Take the tale of Prahlad and his dad Hiranyakashipu – classic good vs evil stuff. Prahlad’s devotion to the good guy, Lord Vishnu, gets him through some fiery trials, literally. The colors? They’re a high-five to the triumph of good, unity, and all those warm, fuzzy feelings of spring.

Q: You’ve got a rooftop Holi bash in Beijing? Tell me more!
A: Think about the skyline as your canvas. We wanted to mix up tradition with a twist, so we took Holi up a notch – literally – to a rooftop in Beijing. It’s about sharing the Holi spirit, giving people a fresh perspective (pun intended), and throwing a party that’s as much about cultural fusion as it is about fun.

Q: First-time Holi-goers with the fam – what should they look out for?
A: If you’re hitting Holi with the family, gear up for the color blitz. Old clothes are your best bet, and bonus points if you pack extras. Get ready to groove because the beat won’t stop, and the dance is where it’s at. And hey, it’s not just a feast for the eyes – your taste buds are in for a treat, too, with some sweet festive staples. Just remember, it’s all about love and respect, so keep it cool with the color throws.

Q: Tell us about the organic Holi colors at the event.
A: You bet! We’re all about keeping it green and clean with organic Holi colors. They’re made from stuff like flowers and herbs, so no icky chemicals. Plus, they’re kind to critters since no animals are harmed in making them. At our shindig, we want everyone to have a blast without worrying about their skin or the planet.

Q: What’s the scoop on the food and drinks included in the entry fee?
A: Get ready for a feast! We’re talking unlimited bites – veggie starters, non-veg appetizers, biryani for all – and Indian sweets that’ll make your taste buds dance. Wash it down with soft drinks, and for the grown-ups there’s a free alcoholic drink to toast with. Big shoutout to our local food joints for making this happen!

Q: Why is white the dress code for Holi?
A: Wearing white’s like starting with a blank canvas. It’s all about purity and getting ready for a fresh start. Plus, when everyone’s in white, it makes those colors pop like crazy! And it’s a great equalizer – no matter who you are, you’re part of the rainbow.

Q: Any special arrangements for kids at the event?
A: Absolutely! We’ve got a whole kids’ zone lined up. Think color play areas, craft stations, and even Bollywood dance lessons. We want the little ones to soak up the culture and have a blast, all while staying safe.

Q: Got any pro tips for families attending the event?
A: Sure do! Dress in white threads you don’t mind getting colorful; pack an extra set of clothes, and maybe keep those phones in waterproof cases. Sort out your ride early, have a family game plan for safety, and dive into the Holi spirit together!

Q: How can folks stay in the loop with the Beijing Indian community and future events?
A: Keeping in touch is easy! We’ve got community groups where we post updates, or you can hit up the “All Things Social” WeChat group. And hey, if any Beijingers can get me into their social circles, I’ll share all the fun Indian happenings there!

Images: Pexels, Arun Moger

As parents, we share a common goal: providing our children with the best possible start in life. A crucial step in achieving this is selecting the right school tailored to their unique needs and aspirations. It’s easy to fall into the assumption that all international schools are alike. The reality is far more nuanced, with each institution offering distinctive curricula and strengths that significantly impact a child’s education and future career paths.

Enter the Jingkids International School Expo (JISE), an annual event that stands out as a beacon for parents seeking comprehensive insights into their child’s educational journey. JISE isn’t just a gathering of major international schools in one convenient location; it’s a transformative experience that elevates the school selection process.

What sets JISE apart is its innovative approach, moving beyond traditional school fairs by introducing intimate discussion sessions. These sessions provide a platform for parents to engage with educators and experts on topics that truly matter. JISE goes beyond mere school connections; it’s an educational hub that keeps parents informed about the latest trends in education. Moreover, it offers a safe and open space for parents to discuss their questions and concerns with seasoned experts. This year, we’ve taken it even further with Pecha Kucha-style presentations from Beijing’s top international schools. These concise presentations let schools share what they’re most proud of in 20 20-second-long slides without giving anyone the chance to drone on endlessly. It’s efficient and straight to the point.

Attending JISE isn’t just about finding the right school; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of education. This expo empowers parents to make informed decisions, ensuring that their children embark on a journey of learning and growth tailored to their individual needs. Don’t miss the opportunity to shape your child’s future. Join us at JISE and take the next step toward unlocking your child’s full potential on Mar 23 from 9pm to 5pm at the Signature Ballroom at Beijing Hilton.

Find it:
Hilton Beijing 北京希尔顿酒店
1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区东三环北路东方路1号

Images: jingkids