Recognise International Academy is a EYFS (Early years foundation stage) / British Curriculum / Cambridge IGCSE school in Shenzhen, China. Founded in 2009. Annual tuition ranges from $19,458 to $19,458 USD.
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Key Details
Academic Performance
Key facts
About
Recognise International Academy (RIA) is a small, family-run international day school in the Shekou area of Shenzhen, China, serving expatriate children aged 4–16 (Reception to Year 11). The school follows the UK National Curriculum adapted for an international context, with maximum class sizes of ten pupils and a total enrolment cap of 78 to ensure highly personalised teaching. RIA is inclusive and non-selective, offering a dedicated specialist class for students with additional learning needs alongside mainstream small-class provision.
School data verified by NanaSays. Last updated: April 2026.
Why Families Choose
Maximum class size of ten pupils and a deliberately limited total enrolment of 78 students to allow highly personalised teaching. Inclusive and non-selective admissions, successfully supporting children who struggled elsewhere. Dedicated Cognition class staffed by a specialist teacher for students with additional needs. Small-school ethos enabling close teacher–student and teacher–parent relationships.
Fees & Financials
Original currency: RMB 141,000. Application fee: $897.
Admissions Process
- 1Make an initial enquiry and download or request application forms (email [email protected] or collect in person). 2) Complete and return paperwork including passport copies, school reports, and any learning-support information to Mr Ian Taylor ([email protected]). 3) Await acknowledgement and a proposed meeting. 4) School visit or trial day for the child if appropriate. 5) Gentle assessments and references as needed to confirm placement. 6) Overseas applicants may proceed via email, Skype, FaceTime or WeChat. 7) Decision: applications received before 30 March aim for confirmation by mid-April; decisions are at the School Directors' discretion. 8) Confirm enrolment by paying the registration fee and completing enrolment paperwork.
Admissions Details
No formal waitlist or pool system is published. The school emphasises limited places in high demand; enrolment decisions are made at the Directors' discretion. Parents unable to secure an immediate place are advised to contact the school directly to ask whether an informal list is maintained or whether they can be notified if a place becomes available.
School Day
Morning arrival 8:30–8:45am, lessons begin 8:50am, morning break around 10:15am, lunch around 12:00pm, afternoon break around 2:15pm, end of day at 3:45pm. After-school activities extend to 4:45pm.
Student Life
The school does not require a full uniform. School T-shirts and polos are available and commonly worn by students; these are optional and any costs are additional.
School meals are provided by La Maison, a local French restaurant. Nearly all students opt for school lunches (charged at RMB 30 per day, billed termly). Snacks may be brought but should be healthy; sweets and fizzy drinks are not allowed.
Facilities & Programmes
Wellbeing & Safety
Recognise integrates well-being (PSHE) and weekly 'Habits of the Mind' (HOM) sessions into the curriculum, covering topics about growing up, managing oneself, and positive learning attitudes. Student Council contributes to this strand. Small class sizes enable teachers to identify and address emotional needs quickly. Medical/health procedures and specialist help routes for pupils requiring additional support are outlined in the Parent Handbook.
The Parent Handbook sets out practical safety measures including drop-off and collection rules (children must be brought and collected by a responsible adult), emergency contact and medical/accident procedures, playground supervision, and a complaints/concerns process. No separately titled published safeguarding or child protection policy page is listed on the website.
Student Demographics
School Background
Family-run independent international school. Founded by Ms Kate Rowan; principal is Mr Ian Taylor. Maximum enrolment of 78 children.