Western International School of Shanghai (WISS)

The Western International School of Shanghai was founded on the vision of three entrepreneurs in the education industry who wanted to create a school that educates students to be globally minded. This initiative sprouted from the Chinese educational philosophy of De (heart) Zhi (mind) Ti (body) so that students can enter the world as global citizens with the ability to understand others, be empathic, and express the desire to reduce conflict.

These elements aligned well with the IB educational philosophy and principles. After WISS opened its doors to students on 6 September 2006, the school successfully adopted the IB Programmes. Since then, the school has grown from a mere 17 students in 2006 to a student community of 800 over the course of 15 years. Today WISS plays host to a community of over 50 nationalities speaking nearly 40 languages. Learn more about our history and the inspiration behind WISS.

The Western International School of Shanghai challenge and empower students. 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.