Questions
What families ask us
How does admissions work?
Families visit, apply and hear back in March. The admissions page lists each step and the months they fall in.
When are open houses and visit days?
Open houses are in October and January. Visit days run on most Tuesdays and Thursdays from October to March, and the Book a visit button at the top of any page books one.
Can we visit before applying?
Yes. A visit day is how most families begin. Your child sits in on a morning lesson, and you talk with the head of school.
What if my child knows no Mandarin?
Children entering kindergarten or grade 1 need none. Teachers use gestures, pictures and songs, and speak English to a child when it matters. For older entrants, we talk at the visit about which grade fits.
Do we need to speak Mandarin at home?
No. Many families do not, and the school sends notes home in English. Teachers suggest books, songs and games families can enjoy without speaking Mandarin.
What is a day like?
Children arrive between 7:45 and 8:15 a.m., and the day begins with a morning meeting in Mandarin. Math and science come in the morning, lunch and recess at midday, and reading, writing and history in English after lunch. The day ends at 3:30 p.m.
How does tuition work, and how do we ask about aid?
Tuition is set by the year and by the grade band, and the tuition page explains each cost. Financial aid is available, and the page says how to apply.
How big are the classes?
Class sizes are on the program matrix, by grade band.
What about lunch, clothes and phones?
Families send lunch, and children eat together at long tables with their teachers. Students wear plain clothes with closed shoes, and phones stay switched off in the backpack.
Is there before or after care?
After care runs from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Families register for the days they need.
How does the school talk with families?
A note goes home every Friday in English, teachers meet each family twice a year, and the head of school answers the office phone most mornings.
When do we hear back?
Decisions go out in mid-March, by letter and by phone, and families have until early April to sign an enrollment agreement.
Still have a question?
Write to the office, or book a visit day.