A school’s impact is often measured through outcomes, university placements, academic results, rankings, and achievements. Yet the true character of an institution reveals itself in quieter ways: in the confidence of its students, the strength of its community, the curiosity that drives learning, and the relationships that endure long after graduation.
For more than two decades, Hangzhou International School (HIS) has been cultivating an environment where learning extends far beyond the classroom. As Hangzhou’s first international school, it has grown into a globally diverse community united by a shared commitment to excellence, inclusion, and meaningful education. Students are encouraged not only to achieve academically but also to explore, question, create, and contribute.
A Mission That Has Guided More Than Two Decades of Growth
Since opening its doors in 2002 as Hangzhou’s first international school, Hangzhou International School (HIS) has remained firmly committed to a mission centered on academic and personal excellence within a caring community. As Zhejiang Province’s only non-profit, WASC-accredited IB World School, HIS has built its reputation by prioritizing the long-term educational interests of students and families above all else.
Being a non-profit institution has played a defining role in shaping the school’s identity. Every decision is guided by what will create the greatest impact for students rather than external interests. Over the years, this commitment has helped cultivate a vibrant international community comprising students from more than 50 nationalities, dedicated educators, engaged parents, and a growing global alumni network.
While the school has evolved significantly since its founding, its emphasis on relationships, inclusion, and student-centered learning has remained constant. As HIS approaches its 25th anniversary in 2027, the institution continues to focus on developing confident, capable learners who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to the world.
Education That Shapes the Whole Individual
At HIS, academic success and personal development are viewed as inseparable elements of a student’s educational journey. The school believes that learners achieve their greatest potential when they feel supported, challenged, and inspired within a nurturing environment.
Alongside a rigorous International Baccalaureate curriculum, students participate in a wide range of experiences designed to foster leadership, resilience, collaboration, and empathy.
Community initiatives such as Dragon Run further reinforce the school’s holistic approach by bringing together students, families, staff, alumni, and community partners to support charitable causes. Through these experiences, students learn that achievement extends beyond academic performance and includes the ability to contribute positively to society.
A Community Defined by Global Perspectives and Inclusion
International mindedness is deeply embedded within everyday life at HIS. With students representing more than 50 nationalities, the school provides an environment where learners engage with diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and viewpoints on a daily basis.
Classroom experiences encourage curiosity, dialogue, and respect for multiple perspectives. Students collaborate across cultures, explore global issues, and develop the intercultural understanding necessary to thrive in an interconnected world.
Equally important is the school’s commitment to inclusion. Rather than asking whether a student is the right fit for the school, HIS focuses on determining how it can best support each learner’s growth and success. This philosophy influences admissions practices, student support systems, and the overall school culture.
The school’s Jade Dragons program serves as a powerful symbol of this sense of belonging. Recognizing students who have spent eight or more years at HIS, the program highlights the enduring relationships and strong community connections that define the school’s culture.
Curiosity as a Catalyst for Growth
Inquiry-based learning sits at the heart of the HIS educational experience. Rather than simply focusing on content acquisition, students are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, investigate authentic challenges, and apply their learning in practical contexts.
The World of Work program exemplifies this philosophy by connecting students with professionals across diverse industries. Through internships, mentorships, workplace visits, and networking opportunities, students gain valuable insights into emerging careers and future opportunities.
The school’s China Trips program offers another distinctive learning experience. By traveling throughout different regions of China, students engage directly with topics such as history, sustainability, economic development, and cultural diversity. These experiences encourage independence, adaptability, and critical thinking while allowing students to explore complex issues beyond the classroom setting.
Through inquiry-driven learning opportunities, students develop the creativity, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability required to succeed in an increasingly dynamic world.
Learning to Lead in a Connected World
Recognizing that future success depends on more than academic knowledge alone, HIS places strong emphasis on developing critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and international-mindedness.
In an age where information is readily accessible, the ability to evaluate information, solve problems, communicate effectively, and work across cultures has become increasingly important. HIS intentionally cultivates these competencies through inquiry-based learning, leadership opportunities, service initiatives, and experiential programs.
Connecting Global Learning with Chinese Culture
Located in one of China’s most innovative and rapidly developing cities, HIS embraces its unique position by integrating global perspectives with meaningful engagement in Chinese language and culture.
Mandarin learning forms an important part of students’ educational journeys, but cultural understanding extends far beyond language instruction.
From studying cultural heritage in Yunnan to exploring sustainability initiatives in rural regions or examining economic growth and innovation across diverse provinces, students engage directly with the country’s rich and varied landscape. These experiences provide authentic opportunities to understand China through participation rather than observation.
By combining international education with deep local engagement, HIS equips students with a broader perspective and a richer understanding of both global and regional contexts.
A Foundation for Lifelong Impact
At its core, Hangzhou International School is dedicated to preparing students not only for academic success but also for meaningful lives as engaged global citizens. Through a combination of rigorous learning, inclusive community values, experiential education, and intercultural understanding, the school continues to shape learners who are confident, compassionate, and prepared to navigate an ever-changing world.
As HIS looks toward its next chapter, its enduring commitment to excellence, inclusion, and inquiry remains the foundation upon which future generations of students will continue to thrive.
The Educators Behind the Experience
At Hangzhou International School (HIS), teachers are far more than classroom instructors. They serve as mentors, advisors, coaches, and role models who help cultivate the supportive and collaborative culture that defines the school. Their influence extends beyond academics, shaping students’ character, confidence, and sense of belonging.
One of the school’s greatest strengths lies in the diversity and expertise of its faculty. Representing approximately 25 nationalities, HIS educators bring a wealth of international experience from schools around the world. More than 65 percent of faculty members hold a Master’s degree or higher, while many are experienced International Baccalaureate practitioners with extensive cross-cultural teaching backgrounds. This depth of experience enriches learning by exposing students to diverse perspectives and approaches. Furthermore, teachers actively model the international-mindedness the school seeks to instill, making global citizenship a lived experience rather than simply an academic concept.
Learning Beyond the Classroom Walls
Some of the most impactful educational experiences at HIS occur beyond traditional classroom settings. The school believes that personal growth often emerges through opportunities that encourage students to discover new interests, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Among the school’s most cherished traditions is the annual Dragon Run, a community event that unites students, families, alumni, faculty, and community partners in support of charitable causes. More than a fundraising initiative, it teaches perseverance, teamwork, service, and the value of collective effort. Equally significant is the school’s partnership with the Special Olympics, which provides students with opportunities to develop empathy, advocacy, and a deeper understanding of inclusion.
Guiding Students Toward Purposeful Futures
University preparation at HIS extends beyond admissions and rankings. The school’s approach focuses on helping students develop the self-awareness, confidence, and sense of purpose necessary to thrive in higher education and beyond.
Through a combination of rigorous academics, personalized university counseling, experiential learning, and career exploration initiatives, students gain valuable insights into their interests and future possibilities. The success of this approach is reflected in the achievements of the Class of 2026, whose graduates pursued diverse pathways ranging from engineering and architecture to fashion design, sports management, history, and the performing arts. Beyond impressive university placements, students graduate with resilience, curiosity, empathy, and a global outlook that prepares them for lifelong success.
A Proven Record of Student Success
HIS has consistently prepared students for success at leading universities around the world. Strong examination results, personalized university guidance, and an emphasis on developing the whole child have enabled graduates to pursue their university of choice across a diverse range of disciplines. While admissions outcomes are important, HIS measures success more broadly through the confidence, resilience, and global perspective students carry with them beyond graduation.
Embracing Innovation While Preserving Human Connection
As technology continues to transform education, HIS remains committed to ensuring that innovation enhances rather than replaces meaningful human relationships. The school views technology as a powerful learning tool that supports research, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving while maintaining strong interpersonal connections at the center of the educational experience.
Students use digital platforms to engage in authentic learning, analyze complex information, and collaborate with audiences beyond the classroom. At the same time, specialist technology educators work alongside teachers to support innovation in areas such as robotics, design thinking, engineering, and digital creativity. These efforts encourage students to become creators and innovators rather than passive consumers of technology. Despite embracing technological advancements, the school remains focused on preserving the discussions, mentorships, collaborations, and relationships that are fundamental to meaningful learning and personal development.
Preserving Community Through Growth and Change
At the approach of the 25-year mark for HIS, one of its greatest successes has been keeping its tight and caring community intact while establishing itself as one of China’s leading international schools. Founded in 2002 as Hangzhou’s first international school, the institution now serves over 1,100 students from over 50 countries.
While undergoing tremendous change and becoming a modern campus, it is today, the defining factor about HIS is still its great sense of community. It is regularly stated by families, students, alumni, and staff members that they feel known, supported, and valued at the institution.
The school’s Jade Dragons program recognizes students who have spent eight years or more at HIS. More than a symbolic distinction, it reflects the deep trust families place in the school and the strong sense of belonging that encourages students to remain part of the community throughout much of their educational journey.
A Vision for the Next Generation of Global Citizens
With regard to the future, HIS is fully committed to preparing its students for university and beyond. The school understands that future leaders will need to be inquisitive, flexible, culturally intelligent, and able to work well in diversity.
As it continues building on the values that it has followed since 2002, HIS will continue to offer excellent academics, excellent teaching, excellent leadership opportunities, and an international setting that is characterized by diversity. Underlying all this will be the school’s unwavering commitment to making sure that growth is never at the cost of community. As the school moves into a new era, it is determined to keep on producing confident leaders who will serve others with compassion and make positive contributions no matter where their lives may take them.
Hangzhou International School
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“What distinguishes HIS is not only the quality of education, but the genuine sense of belonging experienced by every member of the community.”
“Academic and personal excellence are inseparable; students achieve their best when they feel known, supported, challenged, and inspired.”
“Success is not measured solely by examination scores, but by a student’s ability to contribute positively to the world around them.”