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UPPER SCHOOL
Preparing tomorrow’s leaders today
Students are at the heart of learning at SCIS. We deliver a world-class curriculum through the IB Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme to challenge and inspire students, equipping them with the skills they need for the 21st Century.
Our mission asks students to contribute positively, and this requires a shift in mindset. Learning must be a process of discovery and transformational thinking, helping students see the world differently by making connections to personally meaningful issues.
We personalize our programs to fit each child instead of asking them to fit within our system. We strive to ensure that all students are challenged and successful within our curriculum. Lastly, we aim to discover and unleash each child’s passion through our curricular and extracurricular programs.
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GLOBALLY FOCUSED & PERSONALLY RELEVANT LEARNING
Students in grades 6-10 take part in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) which emphasizes intellectual challenge, and encourages “learning by doing” by helping them make practical connections between their subjects and the real world.
MYP students build confidence in their own learning, and develop an understanding of global contexts and challenges as well as a commitment to act as responsible citizens.
This results in young people who are creative, critical and reflective thinkers, well-positioned for success in the IB Diploma Programme, in further studies, and in life.
In grades 11 and 12, approximately 90% of SCIS students participate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The IBDP is recognized and respected by the world’s leading universities, and more DP students go on to university and higher education studies than non-IB students.
SCIS prides itself on the inclusive nature of its IBDP – unlike many schools we accept and support all students who wish to attempt a full IB Diploma and have a high success rate with this approach.
In the DP students select 6 core subjects – the core – and also reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete independent research and undertake a project that often involves community service.
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Subject-specific expectations and curriculum standards are contained inside our Academic Handbooks below:
ONE EXPERIENCE. TWO DIPLOMAS.
Successful graduates of SCIS earn a High School Diploma needed for acceptance into major universities around the world. Additionally, most SCIS graduates earn a full IB Diploma, widely recognized as the most academically rigorous diploma in the world, being accepted in 3,300 top universities from 90 countries. Successful completion of the IB Diploma often qualifies for university credits and opens additional doors for university acceptance into the most selective universities in the world.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE
Research shows that students enrolled in the IB Middle Years Program outperform student who do not enroll in the MYP by an average of 2 points on the IB Diploma.
Research shows that Diploma Programme graduates are more likely to attend a top 20 university than non-IB students.
In a 2014 study, 72% of Diploma Programme graduates in China attended one of the world’s top 500 universities.
DYNAMIC LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Given the right environment and support, students are capable of amazing achievements. The foundation of learning comes from relationships. It’s at the heart of our community. We pay particular attention to transitioning newcomers, knowing that learning is not ideal unless each student feels supported and valued. Each Upper School student is part of a small Advisory Group.
SCIS provides counselors to support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of each student. Our University Counselors provide one-on-one guidance with students and families, helping each navigate the university application process.
We provide additional academic support for students who are English Language Learners. Additionally, we are proud to provide a robust Student Support Program, giving students the support they need to succeed in a challenging environment.
CULTURAL IMMERSION
Each year, students in the Upper School will embark on a one-week ‘China Trips’ with their peers to explore the rich culture our host country has to offer. This unique learning experience allows students to develop more interpersonal and team-building skills that lead to greater self-reliance and independence.
LANGUAGE LEARNING
Recognizing the English may not be the first language of many students, we support students in the continuation of their mother-tongue language through our existing language programs. We also support students in their transition to English acquisition with additional staffing and support through our English as an Additional Language Program.
ACTIVITIES THAT ENRICH
Our After School Activities Program offers a range of activities to promote broaden experiences, promote a healthy lifestyle, and build personal relationships outside of the classroom. Activities include athletics, visual arts, music, STEM activities, robotics, and language programs.
ATHLETICS IN THE UPPER SCHOOL
Athletics are an integral part of the educational program at SCIS and are conducted on a level consistent with other educational programs in the school. The Upper School athletics program enhances our mission by offering additional opportunities for students to develop their physical, social, spiritual and emotional well-being.
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LOWER SCHOOL