To learn more about the Chinese learning programme in our Shanghai international school, complete the enquiry form to get in touch with our Admissions team.
Enquire NowAt Wellington College International Shanghai, our Chinese learning programme is a cornerstone of our international school experience. We aim to nurture global citizens through a mastery of the Mandarin language. Our custom curriculum is designed to help every pupil thrive — whether they are beginners or native speakers.
Learning Mandarin Chinese as a Core Subject
At Wellington College International Shanghai, English is the official language of instruction Mandarin Chinese is taught as a core subject throughout the College.
The Chinese learning programme at our Shanghai international school is mandatory for all pupils until year 9, and most choose to continue with Mandarin studies until they graduate. We offer courses in Chinese language and culture for pupils at every level, with tailored pathways for every learner.
This approach aligns with our mission to develop well-rounded and internationally-minded learners, connectors, and changemakers.
Chinese Learning Programme Pathways
The Chinese learning programme in our Shanghai international school is carefully structured to meet the needs of all Mandarin language proficiency levels.
To ensure our pupils get the most out of their coursework, we thoroughly assess their abilities and place them in classes accordingly.
Chinese Learning Programme for Year 1-9
At our Shanghai international school, learning Mandarin Chinese is compulsory from year 1 through year 9. Our Chinese learning programme offers 3 core courses
• Foreign language: For beginners
• Second language: For intermediate learners
• First language: For native speakers
We also offer elective courses in Chinese culture as part of the Chinese language programme at our Shanghai international school, allowing pupils to deepen their understanding and appreciation of China’s rich heritage.
Chinese Learning Programme for Year 10-11
As pupils progress into years 10 and 11, they can choose to continue with the Chinese learning programme at our Shanghai international school via the foreign, second, or first language courses. This learning path ultimately leads to pupils obtaining the relevant Cambridge IGCSE Mandarin Chinese exam qualifications.
Our Chinese learning programme for Years 10-11 will also incorporate enrichment materials aligned with the IB Diploma Programme to prepare students for future studies.
Chinese Learning Programme for IB Pupils (Year 12-13)
Pupils taking the IB programme at our Shanghai international school can choose to take our more advanced Mandarin ab initio, Chinese B, or Chinese A courses at Standard or Higher Level. Our dedicated teachers will guide pupils every step of the way, including the Extended Essay component and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requirements.
Learning Mandarin Chinese Through Cultural Experiences
Learning Mandarin Chinese at Wellington College International Shanghai goes beyond the classroom. Besides a robust academic curriculum, our Chinese learning programme provides plenty of opportunities for immersive cultural experiences.
Our daily co-curricular activities programme helps to deepen our pupils' understanding and appreciation of Chinese through a wide range of cultural and linguistic activities. We also organise an annual calendar of events around traditional Chinese celebrations, such as Chinese New Year, Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival.
Pupils in Year 7-9 have the option to join our Chinese Culture class to build greater cultural literacy, and IB pupils may earn CAS credits as they develop editorial and leadership skills by contributing to our Shanghai international school’s Chinese Magazine.
Outstanding Results and Achievements
Wellington Shanghai pupils who undergo our Chinese learning programme consistently excel in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Our Secondary School Chinese Debate Team regularly earns accolades at prestigious competitions like Zongheng Cup, National Championships, and the Chinese Cup.
In 2024, 85% of the cohort attained top A/A* grades in the IGCSE exams, while 87% of graduates scored 6 or above in the IB exams, with some even achieving perfect scores.
Building Global Citizens
Wellington College International Shanghai’s immersive Chinese learning programme is more than rigorous academics; it is a gateway to a wider world. Pupils who graduate from our Shanghai international school gain fluency in Mandarin and develop the cultural competence that will serve them wherever life takes them. We are proud to help shape the next generation of global citizens, ready to connect, lead, and make a difference.
