Beijing International School Expo 2018 Highlights

Beijing International School Expo 2018, which took place this weekend (January 13-14), looked to the future, as schools showcased cutting-edge ideas in education.

Parents plan their route around the stalls

Thousands gathered at the Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel this past weekend, to meet and talk to representatives from 67 schools and other education providers. In recognition of the growing importance of the bilingual and international education sector, cameras from CCTV2’s Global Financial Report were present to cover the weekend.

CISB were just one of the top international schools at the Expo

The theme of the Expo was Innovation, and in packed lecture halls leading educators from all around the world tackled the issues of the day: what sort of education will be needed to meet the challenges of the 21st century? At the VIP Salon on Sunday evening, educational entrepreneur Chris Whittle presented his vision of a modern school: global, personalized and open.

Chris Whittle sets out his vision for the modern school

As always, the Expo recognized that not all the learning children do takes place in a classroom. Some of the most valuable lessons happen when they’re being challenged to create and work as a team. Parents could learn more about scouting, skiing, and swimming, as well as graphic design, fashion, filmmaking, and other hobbies which will stretch and develop growing minds.

Parents were able to talk to a wide range of educational providers

For many Beijing students, the ultimate goal is a place at an American college, and the Expo introduced them to organizations which can help them achieve their dream. Wailian Education Group is one example, offering consultation with current admissions tutors at top US schools, help with bumping up that all-important Grade Point Average, and even career advice for after graduation.

Hyde Academy Principal Jennifer Sachs meets prospective parents

But it wasn’t all serious business. Kids built dinosaurs under the safe supervision of Baowei Kindergarten, while their parents got a free styling courtesy of Blow+Bar. One surprise hit of the Expo was Gululu, an interactive water bottle, with cute animated characters encouraging kids to stay hydrated. And Beijing International Bilingual Academy (BIBA) enticed families to their stand with tins of magnetic goo, which fascinated the little ones.

Gululu interactive water bottles were a big hit

Feedback on the event has been overwhelmingly positive, with schools reporting many leads for new students, and also commenting that it’s a great opportunity to meet and network with other schools. When it comes to planning the educational future of your children, Beijing International School Expo is still the biggest show in town!

Photos: Uni You