essential information about OUR SCHOOL

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

When it comes to choosing the right school for your child, we know there's a lot to think about. That’s where our FAQs page comes in. Here, you’ll find essential information about our school, including answers to commonly asked questions. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our expert Admissions Team is here to help.
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Frequently asked questions

  • When was The British School of Guangzhou founded?
    The British School of Guangzhou (BSG) was established in 2005. BSG has been at the forefront of international education in China ever since, providing a springboard to success for almost 4,000 students who now study, live and work across the world. 

    We’re also part of the Nord Anglia Education global family of international schools, which educates over 70,000 students in more than 35 countries worldwide. This unlocks unique opportunities and creates meaningful connections across the globe.
  • Is BSG accredited?
    Yes, The British School of Guangzhou is a fully licensed international school, approved by The Guangdong Education Commission and The Chinese Ministry of Education.  

    BSG is also a member of the CIS (Council of International Schools), FOBISIA (Federation of British International School in Asia), and ACAMIS (Association of China and Mongolia International Schools).

    We’re an approved Cambridge International Examinations Testing Centre and Edexcel Testing Centre, too. These bodies authorise our school to deliver IGCSE and A-Level exams. We’re also an approved College Board SAT Testing Centre for students who wish to take tests to attend US universities.
  • How does the BSG admissions process work?

    Admissions at The British School of Guangzhou are open all year round and you can apply to join us at any time. 

    To apply, you'll need to follow the simple process below. 

    • Complete our short online enquiry form today to start your child's journey to BSG.
    • Join us for a school tour or virtual discovery meeting.
    • Submit your application form and supporting documents (copies of your child's passport, their previous school reports, and a signed conditions and declaration form).
    • We'll arrange for your child to sit a pre-entry assessment.
    • Our Head of School will review your application and either offer your child a place, put them on a waiting list if we don't have spaces available, or give reasons why we are unable to accept your application.
  • I’m applying from overseas and my child can’t attend BSG's admissions assessment. What should we do?

    No problem. Parents applying from overseas can send copies of their child’s latest academic transcripts (this typically only applies to children aged six and above). Depending on the information provided, we’ll respond in one of two ways:

    • In exceptional circumstances, we’ll accept your child unconditionally. This outcome is limited to native English speakers with outstanding academic transcripts or references, normally from a school that follows the English National Curriculum.
    • We’ll send you an online link to complete our assessment. Your child will sit their test in a controlled environment, either at their current school or at home. BSG may offer you a place based on the test results.
  • What do your tuition fees include?

    The British School of Guangzhou’s tuition fees cover your child’s formal academic education, including all teaching and learning. They also include other important elements of school life, such as our Nord Anglia Education collaborations with MIT, UNICEF and The Juilliard School, and many after-school activities.

    We do charge some additional fees, which include a one-off application fee, an enrolment deposit, and (optional) school bus service cost.

  • What curriculum will my child follow at BSG?

    BSG students follow the renowned English National Curriculum. Delivered at top UK and international independent schools, the curriculum combines academic excellence with unique learning experiences, which are adapted to our global and local context. The curriculum expertly develops our learners' skills and knowledge across a variety of different subject areas, culminating in IGCSEs and A-Levels.


  • What foreign languages do you teach at BSG?
    At BSG, all Early Years and Primary students learn Mandarin. This connects them to life in China and enables them to interact with local culture. 

    At Key Stage 3 (Year 7 to Year 9), students choose one language from either Chinese, French, or Spanish. They then follow a course based on the English National Curriculum, which develops the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Whenever possible, we take every opportunity to discuss the cultures of the countries where these languages are spoken. Studying a second language is optional at IGCSE level.
  • How many hours of Mandarin teaching do you offer each week?

    We differentiate our Mandarin classes by age and level of ability:

    • Years 1-3 receive four 40-minute lessons per week.
    • Years 4-6 receive three hours per week.
    • Secondary school students can opt to study either Mandarin or another language.
     
  • Are the qualifications you offer recognised worldwide?
    Yes, students attending BSG will earn IGCSE and A-Level qualifications that are recognised by other British and international schools, as well as universities worldwide.
  • Is your curriculum taught in English?
    Yes, our curriculum is taught in English. For students to be academically successful, therefore, it's important they have a sufficiently high level of both written and spoken English. To help non-native speakers, we provide language support to new students.
  • Are your teaching staff qualified?
    Yes, at BSG we only recruit the best. Our outstanding educators are highly qualified, motivated, and experienced. They also share our commitment to nurturing every student's academic and personal growth.

    Our teachers hold UK Qualified Teacher Status (or equivalent) and many have master’s degrees. Our teaching standards are second to none, too, thanks to Nord Anglia's Global Education Team, who drive success in academics, quality assurance, accreditation, and safeguarding.
  • What extra-curricular activities can my child take part in at BSG?

    We offer a wide-ranging programme of activities beyond the classroom at BSG.

    Our After-School Activities (ASAs) provide Years 2-13 students with opportunities to enhance their learning and development. Our children take on new challenges, work with different people, and grow in confidence and self-esteem. They also develop independence, perseverance, and commitment.

    ASAs include sports (both individual and team), the arts (such as music, choir, drawing, drama, and orchestra), and the academic (including languages and sciences). Activities vary from term to term. 

    ASAs are teacher-led, free of charge, and run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Bus services for children attending ASAs are moved to 4:00 pm. 

    We also offer Academy Programmes, which are a great opportunity for students to discover new talents or improve skills they already have. Our BSG Academy is optional to join, has an extra cost, and runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:15 pm to 5:15 pm.

  • As a parent, how can I get involved in the school community at BSG?
    Our parent community is supportive, welcoming, and an important part of life at our school.

    BSG's Parent Support Group (PSG), for example, has a ‘welcome committee’ for new families. The PSG also serve as class representatives, organise events such as International Day celebrations, and coordinate fundraising activities.
  • Does BSG offer a school bus service?

    Yes, BSG runs a safe and efficient school bus service, which has over 50 routes covering the major residential compounds of Guangzhou. These routes are often created or adapted to provide maximum flexibility. All bus routes are monitored by our teachers and a Bus Supervisor, who ensures rigorous health and safety procedures. 

  • How will you ensure my child settles in quickly at school?
    Your child can join us at any time during the academic year, as long as there are places available. We'll assign your child a ‘buddy’, who will help them integrate into school life. Their ‘buddy’ will guide them through their first few weeks, helping with things like lunch and break time routines, and providing helpful tips about school life. 

    Our teachers and staff are experts at helping new students settle in, too, and provide ongoing support and mentoring.
  • Do you have a pastoral care system?
    Yes, we have a comprehensive pastoral care system in place at BSG.

    In Primary School, our class teachers monitor student wellbeing. They lead assemblies and circle-time lessons, and nurture both individual and group development. In Secondary School, each student has a form tutor, who is also responsible for delivering our citizenship and PHSE programme. We also have a dedicated Assistant Head of Secondary – Pastoral, who oversees this work.

    Our university and careers counsellors, meanwhile, provide expert advice and support to older students planning their futures. 
  • How do you nurture students' leadership skills?

    In Primary School, our leadership programmes include a Student Council, the chance to be a House Captain, and a Playground Prefects initiative. These are roles that give students as young as six a voice and sense of responsibility.

    In Secondary School, leadership opportunities include a Student Guild, the International Award, Model United Nations, and a Prefect system. 

    We also encourage our students to develop a strong sense of social purpose through community and responsibility activities.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

Get in touch with our admissions team today to arrange a one-to-one campus tour or virtual discovery meeting. We can't wait to show you around our school!  

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