The Education Dragon in China is Hungry

What is holding back China in its pursuit of high quality international education?

Looking at strategies for improving international education in China by International Education expert, Greg Parry, CEO of Global Services in Education.

A 5 part series on International Education.

Just in case you haven’t been watching, China’s appetite for international education is unwavering! While the “doom and gloom” columns tell us that a bubble will soon burst permanently for China’s share market, led by real estate and other industries that have ridden the wave of massive gains in previous years, the data still shows that international education is growing.

459,000 Chinese students studied abroad last year, an increase of 11% on the previous year. Where did they go? Well more than 274 000 students went to the USA and nearly 90 000 went to the UK. While these countries lead the race, you might be surprised to know that Australia and Japan follow very closely behind, as well as France and several other European destinations.

America is certainly where the current energy lies though and China and the US is building an education highway that is second to none. About one-third (31 per cent) of all international students studying in colleges and universities in the US are Chinese (274,439).

But what about high school?

Last year, 25,000 Chinese high school students enrolled in US high schools, a 30 per cent increase over the previous year and an indication that many wealthy Chinese families are sending their children abroad at an earlier age.

That figure is staggering!

It is clear that Chinese parents see the benefit of a global world, probably even more so than parents in many other countries.

But what about the growing number of international high schools that have been set up in China over the past 10 years?

It is undoubtably clear that many parents are not satisfied with the quality of international schools in China for local students. In spite of the promises, the high fees and claims of direct entry into top 50 universities, parents are starting to see through the facade. There are no short cuts. There are no easy rides. High quality international schools are characterised by excellent teaching practice, not overseas textbooks. Teachers are experienced and well qualified, not just foreign faces. These schools demonstrate excellent academic achievement for all students, not just a select few. When you use the title "International School" there is a responsibility to meet a standard.

As a foreign international educator I can attest to this.

In the main, most local international schools are nothing like “international” and would not reach even basic standards of schools in the US, UK or Australia.

While fees well over 150,000rmb are often charged, the quality of teachers, resources and management can be sketchy at best. High turnover of foreign teachers, management and students is far too common place.

To be fair there are some schools in pursuit of the standard with good intention. They are driven by a vision for quality and are on their way. Few have achieved the standard yet though.

The message is very clear.

There is a huge appetite for education quality in this segment.

International Education for local students in China is a HUGE opportunity both for educators who want to make a difference and for education companies who are ready to do it differently!

Next week - "Part II - What makes the Difference?"

Internationally renowned for his expertise in education leadership, Greg Parry’s vast experience includes leadership of projects for education institutions throughout Australia, the Middle East, the United States, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China. Recognized for his numerous contributions in the education arena, Greg has received the Ministers Award for Excellence in School Leadership based on improvements in school performance and a range of successful principal training and leadership development programs, as well as the School of Excellence Award for Industry/School Partnerships and the School of Excellence Award for Technology Innovation. His company (Global Services in Education) has been recognised as having the Best Global Brand in International Education 2015 and 2016.

Considered one of the premier experts in his profession, Greg has trained teachers and principals throughout the world in areas such as critical thinking, language development and leadership. His expertise in school start up projects, leadership and curriculum development, has made him a sought after authority in these disciplines.

Contact Greg

www.gsineducation.com