CIS V GSIS

[amitsingh]

Hi,
My son got into both CIS (chinese international school) and GSIS (german swiss)....
Which one to choose...?
Mandarin is important to us but not vital. They can always learn this outside of school. What is important is the overall academic and non-academic learning...?

Any opinions or experiences to share....?

Thanks

 

[MommyTo3]

Hi,
My son got into both CIS (chinese international school) and GSIS (german swiss)....
Which one to choose...?
Mandarin is important to us but not vital. They can always learn this outside of school. What is important is the overall academic and non-academic learning...?

Any opinions or experiences to share....?

Thanks

Besides the languages you may want to consider whether you want the IB or not. What kind of curriculum are you looking for. They're quite different schools. Both good, but different.

 

[amitsingh]

Besides the languages you may want to consider whether you want the IB or not. What kind of curriculum are you looking for. They're quite different schools. Both good, but different.

GSIS is apparently going to integrate the IB system from 2013 onwards so not really an issue yet as my son is accepted into the Kindergarten classes now.
Looking into academic and non-academic excellence, which one is better..?
I have heard CIS has spoilt brats as a lot of tycoons children and grand children are in the school. I have even seen a few bodyguards there.
I have also heard a few things about GSIS.

Stuck on which one to choose...

 

[babystuff]

Have heard good things about GSIS. It is strong academically. I couldn't find any info on PYP on their website. Are they planning on implementing PYP in the primary school as well? Am not a fan of PYP.

 

[amitsingh]

Have heard good things about GSIS. It is strong academically. I couldn't find any info on PYP on their website. Are they planning on implementing PYP in the primary school as well? Am not a fan of PYP.

No there isn't anything on their website. I believe they are still doing their research of the effecitiveness of the IB programme but it seems they may only integrate in the MYP or upper years, not the PYP programme.

I have heard mixed reports anyway on the IB and I am glad they didn't rush to implement it like a lot of international schools and the ESF, as I have heard a few teachers and parents with not very glowing remarks.

 

[Summer 2012]

If I were you, and if Chinese language is not necessary, I would choose GSIS.
Because I have impression that GSIS is academicaly a bit stronger, especially math (it just what I heard from my friends) and I like small school setting. I don't really know non-academic side, but maybe CIS is better for that? (sorry, its just my impression...)
Next 4,5 years, GSIS will renovate the school, so your son needs to go to Wan Chai campus after pok fu lam, as you might know. So it's a downside, but he can enjoy modern campus afterwards!

 

[babystuff]

Yes, some ESF schools are struggling with PYP. Primary education should just be about the 3 Rs -
Reading, wRiting, and aRithmetic.

 

[MommyTo3]

Personally I like the PYP. It's not perfect (and not for everybody) but I do like the general thought behind it. I think we're also quite lucky that our (ESF) school has implemented it very well (I am hearing different reviews on different schools as well, not just ESF), but once they do, I really do like the program. My only concern within the PYP is the basic maths, and especially for those who find it a little more challenging. A lot of children are fine, but if your child is slightly weaker in maths, you have to keep an eye on them to make sure they're staying on track and the basics are getting done (but I guess that goes for all children who have a weak spot somewhere). Again, one of my children's teachers is excellent in that respect (the others are fine anyway). I find the level of reading and writing (at our school) quite high anyway.

GSIS is probably closer to the way I was taught in Europe back then. In a way, that's fine, I had a good education, however, things are changing and there is more than just getting the basics done, in my opinion.

Having said that, I am not sure what I would choose. CIS is very good but I definitely like GSIS as well.

 

[rani]

Interesting you mentioned Maths. Have also heard there are some kids who need extra help. Rather than give them the support they need, some teachers are recommending their friends as tutors. The going rate is $800/hr.

 

[Summer 2012]

Hi,
My son got into both CIS (chinese international school) and GSIS (german swiss)....
Which one to choose...?
Mandarin is important to us but not vital. They can always learn this outside of school. What is important is the overall academic and non-academic learning...?

Any opinions or experiences to share....?

Thanks

At the end , which school did you choose to accept?