FAQs | British School Nanjing

How do I apply?

After filling in the enquiry form and joining us for a tour, you’ll need to complete our online application form. You’ll also need to send us: 

A copy of your child’s most recent school report. 

Medical and passport information. 

A reference from your child’s current school. 

Once we’ve received your documents, we’ll invite your child to do a short assessment.  

You can find out more about the application process, and book a tour, by getting in touch with our friendly admissions team.

How long does the admissions process take?

It depends – each child’s application process is unique. But we’ll let you know as soon as we receive your application form. And we’ll get back to you to confirm your child’s place within 48 hours.

How does the process differ if my company is paying the tuition fees?

If your company is paying your child’s fees, our admissions and finance teams are happy to deal with them directly. Please let us know as early as possible in the application process.

What is your withdrawal policy?

You’ll need to give two months' notice in writing before your child’s last day of school. If you write to us during a public holiday, the notice of withdrawal will be accepted from the first day back after the break.

What curricula do you teach?

Our students follow the English National Curriculum. Divided into key stages, the curriculum teaches the fundamentals students need to succeed. This includes a rigorous focus on literacy and numeracy, alongside a balanced blend of additional subjects. 

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – Nursery and Reception 

Key Stage 1 – Years 1 and 2 

Key Stage 2 – Years 3-5  

Key Stage 3 – Years 6-9  

Key Stage 4 (IGCSE) – Years 10 and 11 

Key Stage 5 (A-levels) – Year 12 and 13

Are your teachers qualified?

At BSN, we only recruit highly qualified, experienced teachers who are passionate about what they do. All our teachers have degrees: either a four-year Bachelor of Education, or a degree in their specialist subject and a Post-Graduate Certificate of Education. Lots of our teachers have other qualifications, too, including Master’s degrees.

English is not our family’s first language. Can you support my child? 

Our expert English as an Additional Language (EAL) team supports students in Years 1-9, although help is available to some older children. We’ll assess your child’s English proficiency during the application process and set up a personalised programme that will get them up to speed. Our EAL students make outstanding progress; they’re typically proficient English speakers within two years.

How will you help my child settle into school?

Students who join us at the start of the year are invited to a special induction day with their families. They take part in activities, meet their classmates, and talk to our student ambassadors, who also act as a ‘buddy’ in your child’s first few days. Even if your family arrives mid-year, we’ll make sure your child gets off on the right foot. Our teachers are experts at helping children settle in. 

Does my child need a laptop or iPad?

We give our Year 6-9 students an iPad mini to use at school and at home. Children in Years 10-13 are expected to bring their own device, but we do have a range of computers and iPads they can use. We teach our students about internet safety, and teachers check that devices are being used appropriately.

How does the school communicate with parents?

We keep in touch with you in all sorts of ways. 

Face-to-face, either at planned Academic Review Evenings or at your request. 

Formal reports, which your child will receive after the first month, at the end of their first term, and at the end of term three.  

Emails and phone calls. 

The TChat app, which is great for photo sharing and messaging with your child’s teacher. The app also has a translation service.  

Social media, including our school Facebook page and official WeChat account.  

Microsoft Teams, which students use to do their homework.  

Monthly newsletters, which keep you up-to-date with the latest news and events.

Is a school lunch provided?

We provide a tasty lunch at no extra cost. Our canteen is run by Aramark, a leading global catering company. They prepare fresh food every day, and offer options including Western and Asian hot meals, a salad bar, and sandwiches.

Do you have a nut and/or allergy policy?

We don’t serve or allow nut products on the school premises, on our buses, or on trips. Our two full-time nurses are on call during the day and after-hours if there are any problems.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)