Junior School (ages 7 to 11)
Welcome to Junior School
Our Junior School in Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong encompasses Years 3 - 6 (Year 3 is equivalent to Year 2 in local schools) and caters to children aged 7 to 11.Junior School aims to provide each child with the very best education and support within an environment that is welcoming and safe. The primary school curriculum follows the standards and expectations within the English National Curriculum and is modified for our international context.
Junior School Core Curriculum
Our curriculum is designed to encourage our primary school students to develop a deep understanding of subjects and gives them the time they need to reflect and consolidate their thinking. We support our students' natural curiosity and strive to stimulate their creativity.
Junior School students engage in topic-based learning, a cross-curricular approach that integrates different subject matter under an umbrella topic or area of interest. Students have dedicated English and Mathematics lessons and specialist teachers for Mandarin, Physical Education, Art, Design Technology, and Music.The curriculum gives primary school students greater autonomy, allowing them to take greater responsibility for their learning. Regular assessments track student progress to ensure all children achieve to the best of their abilities.
Co-Curricular Activity Programme
On average, each term, there are over 100 different CCAs on offer in Junior School, providing opportunities for primary school students to engage in arts, music, sport, service, and academic pursuits. We are one of the very few schools in the world to offer Model United Nations (MUN) exclusively for Junior School students.
Exploring STEM in Junior School
Across all year groups, pupils actively develop and exchange ideas through hands-on programming, robotics and engineering design. Using tools such as MicroBits, VEX IQ series kits, Dash Robots and Scratch, pupils bring code to life — guiding robots, solving challenges and experimenting with creative solutions. These experiences are supported by dynamic learning environments where creativity, inquiry and experimentation intersect to deepen STEM exploration.
Alongside this, 3D printers and laser cutters turn imagination into tangible prototypes, allowing pupils to design, test and refine their creations. Screen time is carefully monitored, and digital citizenship is woven into every lesson, ensuring pupils develop safe, responsible and thoughtful technology habits.
Mandarin Learning
We offer multiple learning pathways to students of all ages and abilities, from native Mandarin speakers to second language learners, including elementary school students who might be learning Mandarin as their third or fourth language. Our Chinese Native Language programme nurtures the following core capacities in preparation for success in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and beyond.
- High standard for reading and writing Chinese
- Genuine love of reading Chinese
- Expressivity and creativity in Chinese writing across a variety of genres
- Critical thinking/research skills in Chinese
- Cultural fluency
Wellbeing at Junior School
Wellbeing is the foundation for academic success. By providing primary school students and families with integrated and holistic support systems that focus on all areas of individual development, ability, and interests, underpinned by the framework below, our students are provided with a supportive environment of mutual care and concern from all staff members.
Applying to Junior School
We warmly welcome enquiries from families at any point in the year. Applications to Junior School are accepted on a rolling basis, and places are offered subject to availability. We understand that choosing a school is an important decision, and our Admissions team is on hand to guide you through every step, from your first enquiry to your child's first day.