Reimagining the international schools in China in the retreating globalization era

This chapter provides a comprehensive historical analysis of the evolution of international schools in China over the last four decades, shedding light on their transformation and future challenges within both global and local contexts. By categorizing the development of these schools into three distinct eras, the chapter underscores the profound influence of globalization, economic development, and fluctuating global trends on their historical development in scale and form. Moving beyond these surface-level observations, the chapter then critically assesses how the external forces and the internal cultural awareness collectively contribute to the future landscape of these schools. These include the influence of geopolitical tensions, national policies, educational preferences, and the modernity relevance of traditional culture. It proposes a forward-looking stance for international schools in China to navigate the complexities of a retreating globalization era, emphasizing a strategic integration of global educational visions with local wisdom to foster a generation of learners who are not only prepared for national progress but also skilled in engaging with global communities.