Stepping into a new school can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. I have studied at Pakistan Embassy College Beijing (PECB) for 11 years of my life since kindergarten. It was a huge adjustment to join a new school halfway through my high school career. However, Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) has been nothing if not welcoming and has exceeded all my expectations. The entire community has made my transition incredibly smooth and hassle-free. With its lively environment and dedicated teachers/staff, CISB has now become my second home. The friendships I’ve formed and the opportunities I’ve been given, have truly developed my educational journey and shaped me into a more confident and well-rounded person.

CISB has challenged me academically and helped me exceed my previous limits.

The firm dedication to nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities has facilitated my growth as a learner. The teachers have gone above and beyond in their efforts to promote engaging and interactive learning experiences, especially during the challenging times of the COVID era. They consistently went the extra mile to encourage us to think critically and explore our passions, ensuring that our education remains lively and enriching. The guidance and expertise of our teachers have not only improved my academic journey but have also inspired me to push beyond my comfort zone. Transitioning from studying the IGCSE curriculum to the IB curriculum was a significant change for me. In my first year of the IB program, I was introduced to the Personal Project. Despite my initial fears, I was able to achieve great success in my Personal Project with the invaluable guidance and support of my supervisor.

Beyond the classroom, CISB provides us with a wide range of extracurricular activities, also known as ASAs (after-school activities), which have played a crucial role in allowing me to pursue my interests and uncover hidden talents.

Last year and continuing into this year, I eagerly participated in Stagecats and TEDx, where I had the opportunity to express my creativity and engage with like-minded individuals. I also got to participate in the Girls in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) program, which intensified my drive to explore the fields of science and technology. These extracurricular experiences have expanded my perspectives and equipped me with valuable skills and unforgettable memories. Engaging in these activities has not only provided me with communities of like-minded students who share similar opinions and interests but has also allowed me to develop essential skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management. These opportunities have enabled me to learn from and collaborate with diverse individuals. CISB’s emphasis on creativity, innovation, and collaboration has prepared me to thrive in this developing world.

Making new friends has been an incredibly positive experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with open arms by fellow students who have shown nothing but kindness and warmth towards me. The welcoming environment at school has made it easy for me to connect with others and establish meaningful friendships. Whether it’s during class discussions, extracurricular activities, or simply hanging out during breaks, my classmates have been supportive, considerate, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Their genuine friendliness has made me feel accepted and valued, and I am grateful for the sense of belonging they have created within our school community. Forming new friendships has not only allowed me to build individual connections but has also opened doors to diverse communities of like-minded individuals. For instance, being part of the Girls in STEMM program has connected me with inspiring young women who share the same passion. Collaborating on projects and engaging in discussions with them has been both empowering and enlightening.

Amidst the incredible experiences I have had at CISB, I must admit that I still hold a special place in my heart for my friends and teachers/staff from my previous school, PECB. Having spent 11 memorable years there, the bonds I formed were deeply rooted in my heart.  Whenever I have the opportunity to reunite with my PECB friends and teachers, it warms my heart to see their genuine kindness and the steady support they continue to offer. In particular, my principal has been a source of positive energy and happiness, always expressing genuine cheerfulness in our reunions. Although my new school has become a cherished part of my journey, I will forever treasure the memories and connections I made during my time at PECB.

Images: Zonaira Ali

Raising a family in a bustling city like Beijing doesn’t mean you need to deprive your kids of nature or the joys of inventing their own games free from the distraction of modern technology.

This past weekend, with the official opening ceremony of ibg school, Beijing’s Xicheng District receives a new addition to the choices of schools for children.

Built on the principles of goodwill, gratitude, and growth, ibg school aims to nurture creative young minds who grow to become valued members of society. In a world of constant change, the school values the appeal for education of each child and family. With inclusive services and education, each child will develop a sense of accomplishment. Children will explore and discover the world by themselves by posing questions, and ibg school is a community that fosters the open, considerate, and happy nature in each child. Ibg school places a strong emphasis on emotional as well as physical care. The school’s education system prepares its children to start on a journey of excellence, instilling initiative, kindness, and integrity that they’ll take with them for their entire lives.

Designed by Hibino Sekkei the brand new campus has already received the green building certification of LEED and WELL, officiating them as campuses built to the highest quality standards. The school’s corridors and outdoor platforms are designed to allow children to run through and enjoy the blissful beauty of nature.

Ibg school features immersive art and exercise programs designed for children between the ages of 2 and 6, providing them with educational opportunities in performance and visual arts.

Ibg school aims to build a diverse community cultivating goodwill, gratitude and growth, by providing tailored and immersive bilingual education about culture and nature. Chinese and foreign children between the ages of 2 to 4 are welcome to apply for the 2019-2020 academic year from now until August 31, 2020.

Admission is based on application materials and a successful interview. Ibg school is aiming to build a vigorous and loving community with parents who appreciate the school’s teaching philosophy and offers scholarships for students with an aptitude that fits their values.

Photos: courtesy of ibg school

Here I thought that Beijing was only known for the pollution, but I was wrong. Beijing is known for education, schools galore, and something fitting for every child. Now, I come from a country where kids go to public school and this is perfectly fine for the whole country. But in Beijing, this is not always possible and finding a fitting school is like getting lost in a haystack for parents. We aim to make the search a bit easier and pleasant for parents.

For my family, location and price are very important as we pay out of pocket. But first and foremost, having a happy and healthy child is the most important. We have since moved further away from the school where she is happy, she started taking the school bus and she is satisfied with this system. I see many school buses around and this opens up a whole other array of schools across Beijing. With these things in mind, I will be at the Beijing International School Expo (BISE) and have a browse around schools for when she gets a bit older.

This school fair will be a lot like shopping: first, a bit of research in the School Choice Guide and then off for a fun-filled day at the fair. After the fair, you might have managed to narrow down the search to some favorite schools. Then it’s time for some visits to the actual school. Even if you are a happy camper at the school you are attending to, I can recommend attending the school fair as it’s window shopping at its best and many after-school and camp program providers will be present. Hopefully, this school fair will be helpful to narrow down the search for the perfect education and a happy and healthy child.

Find more information here and make sure you register before you attend so we know how many cups of coffee we need to brew!

Looking for a new school can be a daunting task for parents. Last weekend, the Beijing International School Expo was a step into making the school search an easier journey for parents. But there are other ways to find the right school including school visits, getting a taste of the vibe of the institution, and meeting teachers. Spring is the perfect opportunity to engage with schools in person since many are having open houses. Visiting is a great way to see the school at its best and in action. We made a lineup of schools having open houses in February and March.

Daystar Academy and Ivy Academy Information Session, Feb 25
For adults. Daystar Academy and its sister school Ivy Academy are opening a Sanlitun Campus in September 2017. The schools invite prospective parents to learn more about the new campus and their program offerings. Registration required. Free. 10am-noon. Intercontinental Hotel Beijing Sanlitun. (www.ivyschools.com/admissions).

Early Years Open Day at BSB Shunyi, Feb 28
All ages. An invitation for prospective parents to find out how children ages 1 to 5 learn and play at BSB, Shunyi! Experience BSB, Shunyi’s classrooms in action, talk to the teachers, see the newly refurbished Teddies classroom, new Early Years swimming pool, dedicated playground for Early Years, the sports dome, and other wonderful facilities too! Free. 10am. The British School of Beijing, Shunyi. (RSVP at www.bsbshunyi.com/EarlyYearsOpenDay or Tel: 8047 3558)

Hyde Academy Open House, Mar 1 and 7
Adults and kids grades 1-9. Hyde Academy will hold an Open House for New Parents on March 1 and 7 from 10:00 – 11:30 am. The Open House will include an introduction to Hyde Academy, followed by a tour of the school. The Open House is open to all, but registration is required as space is limited. Free. Hyde Academy. Please call (010) 8046-7085 or email office@hyde-education.com to reserve a place.

St. Andrews School Reception at Hyde Academy, Mar 3 to Mar 10
St. Andrew’s School will hold its Beijing Reception at Hyde Academy on March 3 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. St. Andrew’s School, The school accepts students from Grade 6-12 and postgraduate. The Headmaster and Admissions Director from the school will be available to answer parent and student questions and provide insight into the boarding school experience. Free. Hyde Academy. For registration, please call (010) 8046-7085 or email Hyde Academy at office@hyde-education.com.

House of Knowledge Open House. Chaoyang Campus, Feb 28 – Shunyi Campus Mar 2

HoK  Open House provides the opportunity to meet the principal, teachers, tour the school and learn about their curriculum. The best way to see if HoK can inspire your child’s personal and academic journey.  Please RSVP: admissions@hokschools.com  Phone: 400 650 7747 Free. 9.30am

House of Knowledge Open House, Mar 1

No kids, HoK Elementary Open House, presentation and tour for parents. Please RSVP: admissions@hokschools.com  Phone: 400 650 7747 Free. 9.30am

YCIS Beijing Open Day: Meet the Co-Principals, Mar 2
Ages 5+ YCIS Beijing’s Open Day will provide visitors more understanding about the school’s unique education model. Parents with students of all ages will have the opportunity to learn about the inner transformation that their children can undergo as a part of their YCIS Beijing experience! Free. 9.30am-12.30pm. YCIS Beijing.

Western Academy of Beijing Open House, Mar 20

Grades 6-11 WAB Open House will bring you into the classroom to feel the schools experience first-hand. The school offers and innovative education, access to cutting edge technology and a warm and diverse environment. Free 9.30-12.30pm For registration, please email: admissions@wab.edu