Visiting schools in Qingdao: what to look for on a tour

Where international families come together.

Touring a school is one of the most important steps in choosing the right fit for your child—especially when you’re navigating international options in a new city.

The classrooms may look similar. The websites may all say the right things. But once you step onto a campus, you’ll quickly notice which places feel intentional, student-centered and built for growth. And which ones do not.

Here are five things every parent should pay attention to on a school visit and why they matter:

1. Look for teachers who build trust

The best schools don’t just hire experienced teachers; they hire people who connect. On your tour, watch how teachers interact with students. Are they at eye level? Do they remember names? Are they fully present—not just teaching, but tuning in?

The quality of your child’s learning experience depends heavily on the relationships they form with teachers. Great teaching begins with trust. Without it, everything else is harder.

Ask whether teachers tend to stay long-term. Consistency matters—for children and for the school community.

2. Listen to how students engage

Learning should feel active. In a strong classroom, you’ll hear questions, see problem-solving, and notice students thinking out loud. Even in Early Childhood, students should be exploring, choosing, and experimenting—not just sitting still or repeating facts.

Whether it’s a primary music class or a high school literature discussion, listen for student voice. Are they curious? Are they involved? Do they feel comfortable asking questions?

When students are engaged, learning isn’t just happening; it’s lasting.

3. Ask about learning outcomes and look for evidence

Most schools say they offer academic excellence. But what does that look like in practice?

During your visit, ask about student outcomes. Not just exam scores or university acceptances, but how students grow over time. Look for displayed work, student portfolios, or long-term projects. Ask how success is measured and how struggling students are supported.

You’re not just choosing a school for the current year. You’re choosing a system that will shape your child’s learning across many years.

4. Pay attention to culture and community

Curriculum matters; so does belonging.

When you walk the halls, observe how people treat each other. Do students look relaxed and confident? Are they engaging with teachers, helping one another, greeting adults? Do parents feel welcomed?

Ask how the school partners with families. Do they involve parents in the learning journey? Are communication channels clear? Are there ways for parents to stay connected?

A great school doesn’t just educate; it builds community.

5. Make sure the school reflects your values

Every school can look good on paper. The real test is whether what they say matches what they actually do.

On your tour, ask about what the school believes is most important. What kind of people are they trying to shape? How do they teach things like kindness, resilience or responsibility? Do students have a voice in how they learn?

Look for signs that the school’s values are visible in daily life—not just posted on a wall. When a school shares your values, your child is more likely to feel safe, supported and understood. And as a parent, you’ll feel more confident knowing that home and school are working together.

Want to visit a leading international school in Qingdao?

At International School of Qingdao, we welcome you to tour our campus, visit classrooms and see firsthand how our teachers, students and families bring learning to life.

Book a tour or contact our Admissions team

The school year has already begun; you still have time.

Many families are re-evaluating their options right now. You still have a few more weeks to make a turning point before your child’s school year begins too.

We’d love to show you what’s possible.