Secondary School

QSI Chengdu secondary students follow a block schedule with alternating A and B days. A typical schedule for secondary students includes eight courses. The daily bell schedule can be seen below:

The following secondary course offerings are provided as an example of scope and sequence an average QSI school may offer. Each QSI school will modify the course offerings according to local needs and requirements. Some schools may offer further courses to be made available through the QSI Distance Learning Program.

Mastery learning is a driving force in our secondary program, and this is founded on high expectations and academic rigor. Our teachers are skilled at mastery learning, providing students the necessary support and individualization needed to be successful. At QSI schools, the mastery learning model defines rigor through the quality of work, which means:

• Depth of material over breadth of material. 
• Mastery of understanding as well as analytical thinking within specific competencies.
• High quality work on assignments that shows deep thinking and understanding. 
• Homework that is specific, purposeful, and relevant to the competencies being mastered rather than busy work.
• Mastery of the competencies in the curriculum rather than choosing an arbitrary percentage cutoff, such as a 60% or 70% passing grade, as the standard for passing.

Academic Planning

QSI Chengdu provides academic support and career planning with the goal of helping students succeed now and prepare them for their future. The secondary counseling program helps students form healthy goals, positive attitudes and behaviors.  A carefully planned course sequence focuses on the Academic Diploma and the AP Capstone Program, which are widely accepted and well recognized for college admission around the world. Academic plans are aligned with each students' university destination requirements. Students are also encouraged to take  elective courses to grow and develop new interests and talents. During academic planning sessions, students also map out how they will stand out in university applications through their selection of extra-curricular activities, volunteerism, and leadership opportunities.  

College and Career Readiness

The official process begins in 13 YO with four-year high school academic planning that aligns with student’s academic and career goals. Students complete interest surveys, PSATs, and provide information regarding post-secondary countries of interests and family plans. Throughout the school year, students are provided with virtual and in-person opportunities to meet with university admissions representatives and experts to learn about post-secondary options and planning. Once students determine which countries they intend to apply, they are advised on what post-secondary educational options and admissions look like in specific countries to include the US, Canada, UK, Hong Kong, Australia, Korea, Japan, China and any other destinations of interests for students. Students receive guidance on the use of major post-secondary and career platforms such as College Board, UCAS, and CommonApp. QSI also hosts an annual career fair in which international industry professional share their expertise on their academic and career path to their profession.

Social and Emotional 

Students receive individual and small group counseling from a licensed school counselor. The school counselor follows the ASCA, ISCA, and IACAC model for post-secondary and whole school counseling. Academic, career, and personal/social counseling services are available to 5 YO through Secondary 4 students. Whole school character education and success orientations are implemented monthly. The school counselor also provides crisis intervention services to students and families as well as maintains relationships with mental health providers in the community. 

Secondary students at QSI Chengdu are encouraged to take part in a wealth of activities, both athletic and academic in nature. Throughout the school year, there are several athletic teams that train and compete in local and regional competitions. We also offer a range of academic extracurricular activities and student-led organizations such as Student Council and the National Honor Society. Service learning is also an important aspect of the QSI student experience so students are provided with numerous opportunities to volunteer within the school and Chengdu community. Students are encourage to take on leadership roles to provide real world experience with collaboration, teamwork, and problem solving skills. QSI Chengdu recognizes that student life is greatly enhanced when our students become involved in these activities, sports, and clubs, aiding our students to become well-rounded citizens and developing positive relationships. 

The National Honor Society (NHS) elevates a school’s commitment to the values of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These four pillars have been associated with membership in the organization since its inception in 1921. Learn more about these four pillars of membership here.

Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate in NHS activities. NHS chapters are found in all 50 states, US Territories, Canada, and around the world. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.

As such, NHS chapters and students are in schools that care not only about student achievement, but also community engagement.

NHS students and their peers volunteer in their communities at the highest rates and make connecting with and serving within the community a priority. 

(https://www.nhs.us/)