A theme wall in the lobby of Qingdao Amerasia International School (QAIS), Qingdao, Shandong province, Sept. 10, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Qingdao, a city that blends ancient culture with modern dynamism along its scenic coastline, doesn't just offer stunning blue waters but also symbolizes endless possibilities and a promising future. This vibrant setting is a perfect match for the educational philosophy of Qingdao Amerasia International School (QAIS).

Located in Qingdao's Laoshan district, QAIS was established in 2011. It stands out as the first institution in Asia accredited by the American Montessori Society and the only school in Shandong province offering all three levels of the International Baccalaureate programs. The school provides a comprehensive education to students from 18 months up to 18 years old, covering everything from kindergarten through high school. Currently, it boasts a diverse body of over 200 students from 27 countries and 101 faculty members from 31 countries, creating a diverse and open educational environment. 

To better comprehend the daily experiences and needs of foreign workers and students in Qingdao, representatives from the Foreign Talent Research Center of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China, together with the Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Science and Technology and accompanying media reporters, visited the school, to engage in in-depth conversations with both faculty and students.

When discussing their reasons for choosing to settle in Qingdao, many foreign teachers and students first expressed their appreciation for the city's climate and natural environment.

A 10th-grade student from Romania shared his attraction to Qingdao's coastal beauty: "I've never been able to go anywhere past the fifth floor and especially even look at the sea."

Seaside view from a balcony of QAIS, Qingdao, Shandong province, Sept. 10, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

For Comine Howe, an educator at the school, who is originally from Cape Town in South Africa, moving to Qingdao felt like a natural choice. "Cape Town and Qingdao are quite similar. When I had the opportunity to come here and I searched on the internet, the first thing that came up was Qingdao," she said laughing. "This is a sign. I must go here." As someone previously unfamiliar with China, she selected Qingdao — recognized as one of the most livable cities in both China and Asia — as her gateway to understanding China, embarking on a new life and educational journey.

The city's relaxed pace, excellent safety record and vibrant international community are also significant attractions for foreign teachers and families.

One teacher named Katy Stack mentioned that the pace of life in Qingdao is slower compared to many other large cities in China, and the high-degree of public safety allows her to better balance her career and personal life, and feel more assured about her children's upbringing. "I felt very secure here being a parent and having my children grow up in this environment," she said.

Teachers and students share their experiences of living in Qingdao at QAIS, Qingdao, Shandong province, Sept. 10, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

American teacher Shawn Thomas feels a deep connection with the school's philosophy, which prompted him and his family to make Qingdao their home. He values the city's high level of internationalization, allowing them to immerse in local traditions while enjoying a variety of cultural activities, from Western classical music to ballet and opera. As the school's drama teacher, he is particularly impressed with Qingdao's rich artistic scene and vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Having lived in China for nearly 30 years, American teacher Nathan Ashelman noted the welcoming nature of Qingdao's residents. "People here are incredibly friendly; they treat me not as a foreigner, but as someone living a normal life here," he said. "This openness is likely due to Qingdao's long history of international exchange spanning over a century."

He also expressed his gratitude for receiving a "five-star card" — the foreign permanent resident ID card — in 2020, which has significantly improved the convenience of living with his family in China.

In the scenic Laoshan district, students at QAIS thrive nurtured by a holistic education. This is supported by the city's dedicated efforts to accommodating the needs of foreign workers, an essential aspect of the community's success. As related policies and measures continue to evolve, Qingdao is welcoming more international students and families, while offering foreign workers a fulfilling experience that balances work and personal life.