As we reflect on the year 2024, it’s clear that BASIS International & Bilingual Schools continues to foster a vibrant, dynamic, and nurturing environment for both students and educators. From groundbreaking academic achievements to thriving extracurricular initiatives, the highlights of this year showcase the extraordinary dedication and passion that defines our school community. This “Best of Our Blog” collection offers a snapshot of the inspiring stories that illustrate how BASIS teachers, students, and staff continue to shape the future of education.
Literary Explorations: Teaching English Language Arts at BASIS International & Bilingual Schools China
Tim Willcutts, an English Language Arts teacher at BASIS International School Shenzhen, showcases the depth of learning possible in China’s classrooms. Guiding students through advanced texts like Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own and Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, Tim fosters intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. With support from ELL staff and a rigorous curriculum, students excel in AP and Post-AP Capstone courses, engaging deeply with literature and developing profound analytical skills. Tim’s experience highlights the unique opportunities BASIS teachers have to inspire a driven, diverse student body while shaping a love for language and learning.
Read the full story here.
Inside a BASIS Co-Teaching Classroom
Our co-teaching model exemplifies collaboration, with Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) and Learning Enhancement Teachers (LETs) combining their unique strengths to create dynamic classrooms. In a Grade 4 math class at BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen, SET Zach King and LET Kory Wu demonstrate how teamwork enhances both student engagement and their professional growth. Their partnership seamlessly integrates Eastern and Western approaches, tailoring lessons to individual needs through methods like “One Teach, One Support” and collaborative group discussions. This synergy not only fosters a love of learning but also ensures students gain a comprehensive understanding of mathematical concepts, preparing them for success. Explore how you can join our team and become part of this enriching teaching experience.
Read the full story here.
College Acceptances Class of 2024
The Class of 2024 from BASIS International Schools · China achieved extraordinary success, with 97% of graduates securing admissions to top global universities, including Princeton, Stanford, Cambridge, and Williams College. Across five campuses, 206 graduates received 1,040 offers and over $4.5 million in scholarships, with 67% gaining admission to elite institutions like the Top 30 U.S. Universities and Top 5 U.K. Universities. Their accomplishments span diverse fields, from STEM breakthroughs—such as admissions to Stanford’s Biology program and Cambridge’s Natural Sciences—to arts and athletics, with acceptances to Parsons, USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, and NCAA Division I athletics. These results reflect the students’ dedication, the BASIS Curriculum’s rigor, and a commitment to fostering limitless potential.
Read the full list of college acceptances here.
Building a Grassroots Faculty Fitness Club
The Fighting Pandas Fitness Club at BASIS International & Bilingual Schools Chengdu has become much more than a workout group—it’s a thriving community fostering camaraderie, wellness, and resilience among teachers. Led by Riaan and Jessica Loots, this grassroots initiative has transformed an empty space into a fully equipped gym where faculty of all fitness levels come together for high-intensity workouts, nutrition tips, and mutual encouragement. From competing in Spartan DEKA challenges to celebrating personal fitness milestones, teachers are not only growing stronger physically but also building a supportive network that feels like home, no matter how far they are from it.
Read the full story here.
Letter from the Head of School: Dr. Jamie Davis, BASIS International School Nanjing
Dr. Jamie Davis, Head of School at BASIS International School Nanjing, reflects on the deep sense of home his family has found in Nanjing. From small-town Canada to a life immersed in international education, Jamie embraces his role in fostering a vibrant and inclusive school community. With a focus on empathy, creativity, and authenticity, he celebrates the joy of being a teacher and leader, inspiring both students and colleagues daily. Whether sharing a laugh or nurturing a love for learning, Jamie is dedicated to creating a transformative educational experience where the school community can thrive together.
Read the full story here.
Hiking, Cycling, and Running: Exploring Outdoor Life in Guangzhou
Bram Caplan, Director of College Admissions at BASIS International School Guangzhou, reflects on how sports and outdoor activities have helped him connect with people and better understand his new surroundings. Living near Science City in Guangzhou offers him easy access to hiking, trail running, cycling, and family-friendly picnics, all while being immersed in the local culture. His adventures, including discovering wildlife and participating in local races with his son, highlight the city’s active community and how sports create meaningful connections.
Read the full story here.
Living in China with Kids: BASIS Teachers’ Top Picks for Family Fun
In celebration of the 30th anniversary of International Day of Families, BASIS International & Bilingual Schools teachers share their favorite family activities and experiences living in China. From enjoying the indoor fun at Nanjing’s Wonder Mall to horseback riding in Chengdu, teachers offer a variety of activities that bring their families closer together. Highlights include soft play areas in Guangzhou, visiting the seaside in Shenzhen, and exploring cultural landscapes and culinary delights in Hangzhou. These moments of connection, from playing games to enjoying local cultural experiences, show the richness of life for BASIS International & Bilingual Schools families in China.
Read the full story here.
BASIS International & Bilingual Schools Adds Three New Schools to Its Growing Network
In August 2024, BASIS International & Bilingual Schools expanded its presence in Shenzhen with the opening of three new campuses: BASIS Bilingual School Guangming Shenzhen, BASIS Bilingual Kindergarten Nanshan, and BASIS Bilingual Kindergarten Futian. This growth brings the network’s total in Shenzhen to five campuses and extends its reach to 13 schools across China. These new schools are designed to foster innovative learning environments, from the state-of-the-art facilities at BASIS Bilingual School Guangming Shenzhen to the specialized early childhood spaces at BASIS Bilingual Kindergarten Nanshan and BASIS Bilingual Kindergarten Futian.
BASIS Bilingual School Guangming Shenzhen
BASIS Bilingual Kindergarten Nanshan
BASIS Bilingual Kindergarten Futian
Read the full story here.
Faculty Mentoring & Professional Growth
At BASIS International & Bilingual Schools, mentorship is huge part of professional growth, benefiting both teachers and administrators. Through a culture of support and collaboration, mentorship takes various forms, from one-on-one coaching to leadership development. Educators, whether mentoring or being mentored, engage in meaningful conversations that foster reflection and enhance teaching practices. Stories from our school leaders and faculty highlight the transformative power of mentorship, showing how it shapes confident, innovative educators and fosters a dynamic, thriving educational community.
Read the full story here.
Conclusion
2024 has been a year of remarkable growth, collaboration, and success for BASIS International & Bilingual Schools. Our educators, students, and staff have consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, both in and out of the classroom. As we look forward to the future, we remain excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead, continuing to inspire and innovate throughout our school network.
For more information on teaching with BASIS International Schools, visit our careers website.
