High School

Welcome,

I continually see it as a daily blessing to be able to lead the ISW High School Division in its pursuit toward preparing our students to be leaders in the career fields they chose to embark on. Over the past two years, the sheer number and variety of opportunities for students has dramatically increased in both academics and extra-curricular activities. We have seen an increase in the number of Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings on the academic side, and multiple additions on the extra-curricular activities side that include join the SYAC Athletics League and piloting a Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) program during school hours on Fridays. All of these additions have allow our students to grow in their interest-specific academics, compete more aggressively in athletics, explore areas of interest like art, photography, music, science and service. As we look towards next year, we want to continue these wonderful additions, with the goal of improving our students’ experience in each of them. Please continue to partner with us in our pursuit of providing the best educational option for students in Wuxi, China.

Sincerely,
Barbara Foster
High School Principal

CURRICULUM

The ISW curriculum provides a holistic program that balances the development of concepts, skills and character. Our approach focuses on the total growth of the developing child addressing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs in addition to academic welfare.

Our program focuses on guided inquiry, collaboration and communication as approaches to teaching and learning to provide an environment that fosters the development of problem solving and critical thinking as well as subject competencies.

The subjects of Language Arts, History, Social Studies, Science, Mathematics are taught by the classroom teacher. Whenever possible, transdisciplinary links are made across subjects to maximize learning connections.

Chinese, PE, Music and Visual Arts are taught by Specialists to form a comprehensive, varied and rich experience. Technology is used as a tool that enhances and broadens the scope and quality of student learning.

The language of instruction is English, with additional support for non-English speakers.

A Closer Look

CO-CURRICULAR

The best learning is active and engaged. It can be found in ordinary places. Take our open gym nights or our High School dance troupe practices, for example. These activities energize students and help them to see the holistic connections between mind, body, and spirit. Activities outside the classroom are not merely add-ons to the core curriculum. They are a continuous enrichment, a way to sustain and deepen learning.

At ISW we believe that co-curricular activities are an important part of education that extends beyond the classroom. Co-curricular activities provide motivation for learning, character building, physical growth and creativity while developing confidence and educating the whole child. Students are encouraged to participate and explore all opportunities that interest them. Students who are involved in co-curricular opportunities become more invested in the school experience, therefore increasing the opportunity for higher academic performance and social well-being.

ATHLETICS

ISW has a fantastic athletics program that grows our students in the knowledge of the sport, and then teaches them how to compete at their highest levels. We compete in volleyball, basketball, and soccer in tournament and regular season play in our city league (SYAC) and across our district (iSC).In high school, the emphasis is on students maximizing their potential as a team to achieve success. This means that playing time is not always equally distributed, but every student is given meaningful playing time.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical education helps children develop physical as well as social-emotional skills to become healthier young people through different sports and games. Sportsmanship, work ethic, communication, and inclusion are daily lessons woven into each activity.The end goal is building confidence, self-worth, and problem solving through a physically active lifestyle.

VISUAL ARTS

ISW’s High School Visual art students use paint, collage, sculptural and digital media to explore artistic expression in a structured and supportive environment. One of the main goals of the art program is to introduce students to classic and modern artistic techniques and then let them create and explore. In addition, they learn about artists, art movements and how to move from concept to creation.

PERFORMING ARTS

ISW is the only international school in Wuxi with a symphonic band program. Students involved with the ISW music department get the opportunity to develop instrumental and choral skills playing a variety of music and getting to perform throughout the year at events like Java and Jazz and the annual Spring Concert.
ISW also has a developing drama program where students are able to work with others and express themselves and their thoughts through plays, monologues and more.

CLUBS

After-school activities are a great tool in our aim to develop well-rounded students. The school sponsors a number of after-school activities that give High School students an opportunity to explore and excel in a particular sport, hobby, or area of interest.

Ready to check us out?

We would love to have you come for a visit to our school.