Admissions Policy

Concordia International School Ningbo Admissions Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this Admissions Policy is to outline the process and criteria for admission to Concordia International School Ningbo in Ningbo, ensuring transparency, fairness, and alignment with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme's (PYP) philosophy of inclusivity and international-mindedness.

Scope

This policy applies to all prospective students and families seeking admission from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 5, the duration of the PYP.

Principles

Our admissions process is guided by the following principles:

- Inclusivity: We welcome students of all nationalities, backgrounds, and abilities, embracing the diversity that enriches our learning community.

- Equity: Admission decisions are made on a fair and non-discriminatory basis, considering the needs and potential of each child.

- Transparency: Our admissions criteria, process, and decisions are clear and communicated openly to all applicants.

- Continuity of Learning: Priority is given to ensuring a smooth educational progression for students already within the IB continuum or those transferring from other IB schools.

Admissions Criteria

Admission to Concordia International School Ningbo is based on the following criteria:

- Age Appropriateness: Students must meet the age requirements for the grade level to which they are applying, as per local educational guidelines.

- Academic Records: Review of previous school reports, assessments, and any additional support documentation to ensure we can meet the child's learning needs.

- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction is desirable but not mandatory. Language support will be considered for all.

- Special Educational Needs: Assessment of the school's capacity to meet any identified special educational needs or requirements.

Process

1. Inquiry and Application: Families should submit a completed application form along with the required documents, including previous school reports, a copy of the child's passport, and any relevant medical or special needs information.

2. Review and Assessment: Applications are reviewed by the admissions department. An assessment may be conducted to understand the student's learning needs, language proficiency, and overall fit with the PYP framework.

3. Interview: A family interview may be conducted to ensure alignment with the school's values and to discuss how the school can support the child's learning journey.

4. Decision and Offer: Admission decisions are communicated to families in writing. Successful applicants will receive an offer letter, which must be accepted within a specified timeframe.

Waiting List

In cases where the number of qualified applicants exceeds available spaces, a waiting list will be established. Priority on the waiting list is determined by the date of application, sibling attendance, and the child's status as a returning student or from an IB school.

Special Considerations

- Siblings: Sibling applicants will be given priority in the admissions process to support family unity.

- Staff Children: Children of Concordia International School Ningbo staff members may be given priority in the admissions process, subject to the same admissions criteria.

Review and Updates

This policy is reviewed annually to reflect any changes in the IB PYP framework, local educational regulations, or school capacity. Amendments to this policy are approved by the School Board and communicated to all stakeholders.

This policy is a starting point and will be updated on a regular basis to fit the specific needs, mission, and context of Concordia International School Ningbo. The policy will be accessible to all prospective families, providing translations if necessary (and possible), and staff will be trained to implement it effectively and empathetically.

All policies need to be collaboratively developed, well-documented, communicated to all stakeholders, and regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the school community or IB standards. It's also important to keep these policies aligned with local educational regulations and cultural expectations in Ningbo.