Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)

The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) was founded with a vision to nurture globally minded students. This vision emerged from the Chinese educational philosophy of De (heart), Zhi (mind), and Ti (body), aiming to equip students with the ability to understand others, express empathy, and work towards conflict reduction.

Aligned with the International Baccalaureate (IB) educational philosophy, WISS opened its doors to students on September 6, 2006. Since then, it has grown from a small cohort of 17 students to a vibrant community of hundreds of learners. Today, WISS proudly hosts students from more than 50 nationalities, representing nearly 40 languages.

The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) was founded with a vision to nurture globally minded students. This vision emerged from the Chinese educational philosophy of De (heart), Zhi (mind), and Ti (body), aiming to equip students with the ability to understand others, express empathy, and work towards conflict reduction.

Aligned with the International Baccalaureate (IB) educational philosophy, WISS opened its doors to students on September 6, 2006. Since then, it has grown from a small cohort of 17 students to a vibrant community of hundreds of learners. Today, WISS proudly hosts students from more than 50 nationalities, representing nearly 40 languages.

The Western International School of Shanghai challenge and empower students through an unparalleled IB education. We will achieve this vision for our diverse community through innovative, high-quality, inquiry-based learning and teaching, with individualized student learning pathways.

As a community of learners, WISS supports a pedagogy based on current research in international education. Such understanding of the conditions necessary for high-quality learning leads to high-quality teaching that transcends traditional learning environments.

At WISS, we cultivate within our students an appreciation of interdependence, the development of ethical and moral thinking relating to complex issues, and a sense of social responsibility that lead to positive actions that support sustainable futures for all.

Curriculum Description

The Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) offers the full IB continuum—PYP, MYP, DP, and CP—providing a consistent inquiry‑based education from early years through Grade 12. Its curriculum blends robust academics with holistic development across four pillars: Academics, Sports, Arts, and Community Service. Senior students choose differentiated pathways in the IB Diploma or Career-related Programme, aligning courses to their strengths, interests, and future university or career goals.