These two great educators both believe that education and life are inseparable, and this spring evaluation is also a journey of education and life.

The main purpose of this visit was to observe schools. However, there were many more aspects to this two weeklong trip involving meeting relatives of historical figures, potential partners, as well as friends and colleagues. Here is a more personal look at the visit to China from our Academic Director, Lisa Kerr.

Arriving on a Friday in China, I was greeted by Mr. Joe Yan who is the Director of Griggs China & CEO of Griggs Shanghai, and Ms. Amy Song who is the Director Assistant & Admission Director of Griggs China. We awaited the arrival of Ms. Jeannie Leiterman, who is the GIA Registrar based in the Griggs headquarters in the US and who I would spend the next two weeks with visiting the schools. Our first stop was a local dinner, where I got to know the team better. I couldn’t wait to see what the following days would bring.

Although the weather was wet, Amy, Jeannie and I ventured out to explore the Bund and East Nanjing Rd. Despite the rain, the historical architecture and bustling atmosphere gave us a glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

The day began with a peaceful walk around Yu Gardens. One of the highlights of the day was meeting the grandnephew of Sun Yat-sen, an iconic figure in Chinese history. Over a delightful lunch, we discussed his vision for the future of China’s education system. This conversation underscored the importance of integrating tradition with innovation in developing future leaders.

Our first educational visit took us to Le Camp, an outdoor activity site with extraordinary facilities designed to foster creativity and academic excellence. We were shown around the impressive AI classroom with state-of-the-art technology and facilities for the running of immersive AI courses and summer camps. The camp boasts a climbing wall, a go-kart track, a rowing lake, and even caravans for students—spaces that encourage both physical and mental growth. It was clear that Le Camp is committed to creating an environment where students can not only excel academically but also thrive in extracurricular activities.

Next, we had the pleasure of visiting SHBS. The school, as always, greeted us warmly, and we had the opportunity to sit in on some of their excellent classes. The environment at SHBS is second to none, and the school focuses on the individual allowing both students and teachers the freedom to be the best versions of themselves. As we wandered through the nearby ancient town of Zhujiajiao, chatting with Principles Bowen Chen and Chris Moses, we understood the deep cultural connections within the school, as well as the vast opportunities available to its students.

In Kunshan, we observed more engaging lessons at Liren Foreign Language School American Program, where educators demonstrated incredible dedication to their craft. One of the highlights was a session led by Jeannie, which focused on SAT and ACT preparations. Afterwards, we joined a dinner with leaders from the school, Ms. Hope Wang and Griggs Program Coordinator Marga Ginard Ollers, where we enjoyed a delicious Korean BBQ. The conversations were enlightening, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the education system.

In the evening, we joined the teachers from the GIIC for a traditional hotpot dinner. This was another opportunity to connect with educators and discuss the latest trends in teaching and learning.

Still in Kunshan, we visited the site of Kunshan Global International IELTS Centre Griggs Program. We observed lessons and witnessed profound answers given by students. We were also treated to a special lunch with Principal Amy Zhu and Griggs Program Coordinator Gary Liang. We hope to see them again soon.

Our trip continued in Guangzhou, where we met up with our colleagues Ms. Leila Qiu, Office Administrator of Griggs China and Mr. Harry Lee, Chairman and CEO of Griggs China. After a good night’s sleep, we visited a potential new partner site ran by Dr. Jon Guo, who is interested in running the Dual Diploma program. The site was undergoing some upgrades, and it was clear to see that the space would become a great site for students. Afterwards, we had a traditional Cantonese lunch, which was gratefully received. Afterwards, Leila, Jeannie and I visited the stunning Chen Clan Ancestral Home, a beautifully preserved historical site. In the evening, we met up again with Harry and enjoyed Thai food for dinner, followed by a peaceful walk through the park leading us to the impressive Canton Tower. It was a lovely way to unwind while reflecting on the work done so far.

Arriving at ZWIS, we were welcomed by a school assembly dedicated to values—a strong indication of how deeply rooted principles guide the institution’s approach to education. The campus itself was an architectural marvel, with a clear emphasis on creating a space that encourages creativity and academic rigor.

After a delicious dim sum lunch, we observed several lessons that left us impressed with the school's high standards of teaching and its commitment to student engagement. The following day, we had a morning meeting that focused on the school’s extremely well-thought-out academic program, which places equal importance on intellectual and personal development. We were impressed by the hard-work and dedication of the program’s leaders including Ms. Emma Li, the Griggs Program Coordinator, Ms. Teresa Yang, Vice Principal, Ms. Peggy Zhai, Principal and Ms. Priscilla Tang, Academic Secretary.

After a traditional Cantonese lunch with the program leaders, Jeannie left for the train station and her onward journey to visit the Griggs School in Hong Kong. My day ended with a visit to the Guangdong Museum of Art with Priscilla, which provided a perfect setting for reflection on the overall journey. Walking through the museum's exhibits gave me the chance to reflect on the transformative potential of education—how it can be a tool for both personal and societal change. As I shared a final hotpot meal with leaders of ZWIS, I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to witness such varied educational environments and engage with so many passionate educators and students.

As my time in China came to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible diversity and innovation I had witnessed throughout my visits. Every school I encountered was committed to nurturing young minds in different yet complementary ways, whether through state-of-the-art facilities or by fostering deep values that shape the school culture.

This journey reinforced the importance of school evaluations—not just as a means of assessing the quality of education but as a way of understanding the heart of an institution. The people, the facilities, the culture, and the shared vision all contribute to the educational experience, and I was lucky enough to see this firsthand.

It wasn’t just a trip to evaluate schools; it was a trip to see colleagues—and friends—dedicated to the future of education. As I boarded my flight home, I carried with me a renewed sense of optimism about the power of education to transform lives and societies.