Ningbo, China

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 10, 2022

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Ningbo, China: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.

What are the schools in Ningbo like?

"Don't do it. Enrolment has fallen to around 70. Some classes only have 1 or two kids - really bad. They have had four heads of school in four years and all really bad. Horrible school and school board. Much better schools in Ningbo," added another expat with kids at Access International Academy Ningbo in Ningbo.

"Closely examine the standard of English within the class your child will be entering and check the teacher's experience and level of English. There are many Korean and Chinese students with poor English and no proper ESL program. It really drags down standards. Ask if teachers have at least five years experience including at least 2-3 years of international teaching PLUS a teaching certification," commented one expat when asked about Access International Academy in Ningbo.

"Talk to parents with children currently at the school. Take a tour of the facilities and meet the teachers. It has undergone impressive renovations in the past few years," remarked another expat living in Ningbo with children attending Hua Mao Multicultural Education Academy.

"The small class sizes maximise interaction with the teacher. My children have excelled in Chinese and are becoming bilingual which is a real plus for me whilst living in China. I also like the fact that they are making friends from around the world, but also have Chinese friends. I have also found the IB curriculum to have really helped by children to maximise their learning and I want them to stay in this system. Parents should think about what education system best suits their child (Australian, British or American). I couldn't be happier with the education my children are receiving at MEA," said another expat in Ningbo with children at Hua Mao Multicultural Education Academy.

"We have found it amazing in so many ways. Ticks in all the boxes! Extremely qualified and competent teachers!," remarked another parent with kids at Ningbo International School in Ningbo.