The Best British Schools in Shanghai

The UK Curriculum or British Curriculum is very popular in Shanghai. Discover The Best British Schools in Shanghai.

The Best British Schools in Shanghai

British schools in Shanghai are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best British schools in Shanghai, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.

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Why families choose a British school in Shanghai?

Choosing the right school for their children is one of the most vital decisions that expatriate families face when relocating to Shanghai. British schools have become a popular choice, thanks to their robust curriculum, emphasis on holistic development, and the seamless transition they offer for those moving from or planning to move to the UK or other Western countries in the future.

Global Recognition and Academic Excellence

British education is renowned globally for its rigorous standards and academic excellence. Schools in Shanghai that follow the British curriculum maintain these high standards, ensuring that students receive an education that is respected and recognized worldwide. This is a crucial factor for parents who want their children to have the best possible qualifications, opening doors to prestigious universities and lucrative career paths globally.

English as a Primary Medium of Instruction

For many expatriate families, ensuring their child continues to receive education in English is paramount. British schools in Shanghai predominantly use English as the language of instruction. This not only helps in maintaining language proficiency but also in easing the transition for children who have moved from English-speaking countries. Additionally, being fluent in English is a significant advantage in the global job market, which is an attractive prospect for parents thinking about their children's future careers.

Cultural Familiarity and Extracurricular Balance

British schools often mirror the culture and ethos found in schools across the UK, which can be comforting for families seeking a sense of familiarity in a foreign country. Moreover, these schools typically offer a balanced approach to education, where equal importance is given to extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, and other clubs. This holistic approach contributes significantly to the development of well-rounded individuals, ready to take on the challenges of the future.

Supportive Environment for Expatriates

The community aspect of British schools in Shanghai cannot be overstated. These institutions often attract a large number of expatriate families, which can ease the transition for both parents and children alike by providing a ready-made community of others who are experiencing similar adjustments. This sense of community helps in faster acclimatization to the new environment and provides a network of support for academic and emotional needs.

In conclusion, the decision to enroll children in a British school in Shanghai is driven by the desire for academic rigor, the necessity of English language instruction, the comfort of a familiar cultural environment, and the support of a community. These schools not only prepare students for global opportunities but also ensure a well-rounded development, making them an ideal choice for many expatriate families.

Top rated British schools in Shanghai 2025

This British schools list is informed by World Schools data—we consider parents and students reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi

Shanghai - Puxi
At Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi the curriculum is academically rigorous, yet the education of the whole child is seen as critical. The wellbeing programme and range of co-curricular opportunities available to all children encourages academic, physical, social and emotional growth

Why parents choose this school

Mandarin British Curriculum

Yew Chung International School of Shanghai

China - Shanghai
YCIS Shanghai marks our first footprint in the Chinese mainland. Over the past 30 years, the school has expanded with six campuses across Puxi, Pudong and Lingang, offering a unique education pathway and competitive international curriculum for expatriate children aged 2 - 18.

Why parents choose this school

Bilingual Chinese Spanish American Curriculum British Curriculum Cambridge Curriculum Other Intellectual Giftedness

British Primary Schools in Shanghai

British Secondary Schools in Shanghai

Sixth Form Colleges in Shanghai

UK Curriculum Online Schools in Shanghai

How much do British schools in Shanghai cost?

According to World Schools data, the yearly tuition fee for British schools in Shanghai ranges between $24300 and $29100. However, the cost varies significantly depending on various factors such as the school curriculum, extracurricular activities, location, and facilities, and can go up to $48200.

The average yearly cost is $27500, around $2800 per month, and can go up to the maximum monthly cost of $4900.

Additionally, most schools will also charge a one-time registration fee, and you also need to count an extra budget during the year for extracurricular trips, holiday camps, etc.

If you would like to explore British schools in Shanghai with yearly fee filters, please use our advanced search filters.

Understanding the UK Curriculum

Summary

Families choose British schools in Shanghai for their globally recognized curriculum, English as the medium of instruction, cultural familiarity, and supportive expatriate community. These schools prepare students for worldwide opportunities while ensuring holistic development.

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