Academic Excellence and Wellbeing at NAIS Pudong

For many families in Shanghai, selecting an international school is closely linked to academic outcomes and university progression.

At Nord Anglia International School Shanghai, Pudong (NAIS Pudong), students consistently achieve strong results, including an average IB Diploma score of 37 and a 100 percent pass rate over the past five years.

Graduates have progressed to leading universities across the UK, United States, Europe, and Asia, including University of Oxford, Imperial College London, ETH Zurich, University College London, Duke University, University of Michigan, McGill University, National University of Singapore, University of Hong Kong, and University of Melbourne.

These outcomes reflect a clear academic focus. However, they also highlight a broader educational approach in which academic achievement is closely linked to student wellbeing and engagement.

The Link Between Wellbeing and Academic Performance

High academic standards and student wellbeing are sometimes viewed as competing priorities. Increasingly, research suggests they are interconnected.

Studies across Nord Anglia Education indicate that students who feel supported and confident are more likely to demonstrate strong focus, sustained engagement, and higher academic performance.

This is supported by wider academic research, including Youth Wellbeing Predicts Later Academic Success, which found that students’ wellbeing can be a significant predictor of future academic outcomes.

At NAIS Pudong, wellbeing is integrated into daily school life through structured pastoral care, close teacher-student relationships, and a supportive international environment.

This approach aims to create the conditions in which students are able to perform at a high academic level while also developing confidence and independence.

Academic Rigour with Personalised Support

Academic success at NAIS Pudong is underpinned by a balance of high expectations and individualised support.

Students are encouraged to think critically, engage deeply with subject content, and take ownership of their learning. Teachers provide targeted feedback and guidance, supported by relatively small class sizes and an international teaching faculty.

This combination enables students to progress academically while developing the skills required for further study.

Global Opportunities and Enriched Learning

As part of Nord Anglia Education’s global network, NAIS Pudong offers access to a range of international collaborations that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Students engage in STEAM-related challenges through collaboration with MIT, develop creative skills through programmes linked with The Juilliard School, and explore global issues such as sustainability through work connected with UNICEF.

These opportunities are designed to complement academic study by developing skills such as collaboration, creativity, and global awareness.

Preparing Students for University Pathways

University admissions processes increasingly assess a combination of academic results, personal attributes, and broader experiences.

Students graduating from NAIS Pudong typically progress to universities in multiple global destinations, including the UK, US, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Recent destinations include:

  • University of Oxford

  • Imperial College London

  • ETH Zurich

  • London School of Economics

  • Duke University

  • Carnegie Mellon University

  • University of Michigan

  • McGill University

  • University of Hong Kong

  • National University of Singapore

  • University of Melbourne

These outcomes reflect both academic preparation and the development of skills relevant to higher education.

A Broader Definition of Success

At NAIS Pudong, academic achievement remains a central priority. At the same time, the school emphasises the importance of developing confidence, resilience, and independent thinking.

This combined focus reflects a broader definition of success, in which strong examination results are supported by the personal and intellectual development needed for long-term success in higher education and beyond.