QSI International School of Shenzhen

In Brief

QSI is the most accessible and welcoming option in Shekou for families arriving mid-year or with younger children - small, responsive, and genuinely easy to join. At 455 students it lacks the breadth of the larger schools, and the facilities are functional rather than impressive.

QSI has been operating in Shekou since 2001, making it one of the longest-running international schools in that part of Shenzhen. It runs as a not-for-profit through the global QSI network and operates three campuses close to each other on and near Taizi Road: PLE for the youngest children, Main for primary and middle, and Secondary in the Fenghua Theatre building on Gongyuan Road. Around 455 students from over 35 nationalities attend across ages 2 to 18.

The Mastery Learning model means students progress when they demonstrate competence rather than moving up purely by calendar year - useful for families whose children are at an unusual point in their development or who need intensive English support. AP courses and IB Diploma pathway are available at secondary, alongside after-school activities. Staff responsiveness is consistently praised by parents; the admissions team is unusually warm and fast to reply, and rolling admissions throughout the year make mid-year moves significantly easier.

At CNY 234K to CNY 256K for primary and secondary, QSI is mid-market by Shenzhen standards, but the facilities and scale are smaller than the fees might suggest. The CNY 30,000 enrolment deposit is non-refundable on withdrawal - confirm the exact terms before committing. Background discussions point to some financial and teacher recruitment pressures in recent years; worth asking about current staff stability at your admissions visit.