We are incredibly proud to announce that NAIS Pudong has won the Staff Development & Wellbeing Award at the 2025 China School Awards!
This award recognizes the school that has made the most outstanding efforts in supporting staff development and well-being, ensuring that all team members—academic, administrative, leadership, and functional—have the tools, resources, and support they need to grow professionally and personally.
At NAIS Pudong, we believe that investing in our staff is the key to student success. That’s why we have built a comprehensive professional learning strategy that empowers our teachers and staff through a range of initiatives, including:
Tailored CPD Programmes
A structured, ongoing professional development programme aligned with school-wide and individual goals. Our teachers benefit from Nord Anglia Teacher Standards, the Great Teaching Toolkit, internal CPD sessions led by our expert staff, external workshops, and board exam training (IB/IGCSE).
EmpowerUs & Performance Reviews
A structured approach to teacher and staff evaluations that ensures continuous growth. Staff at all levels set their own objectives alongside their managers, developing a culture of empowerment and development.
Cross-Department Collaboration
This year, we’ve strengthened links between our Primary and Secondary teams, with teachers pairing up to lead CPD sessions for colleagues across different levels of the school.
Support for Non-Teaching Staff
We believe that professional growth isn’t just for educators. In 2024, we introduced CPD plans for all non-teaching staff, enabling them to take part intraining sessions and professional learning, while also creating cleardevelopment pathways for their careers.
Wellbeing Initiatives
We understand that professional development goes hand in hand with personal well-being. Our Recharge Weeks, where no after-school meetings take place, allow staff to focus on their own balance. Staff also have access to our sports facilities, including tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a new gym, to help maintain a healthy lifestyle. We’ve even built stronger links with professional counselling services, ensuring that mental health and emotional well-being are supported.
A Stronger School Community
We know that a happy, well-supported team creates the best environment for students. That’s why we’ve made community events a priority, organising movie nights, bonfire nights, and summer fairs to bring everyone together outside of the classroom.
Principal Diane Vaughan shared:
"Winning this award is a true reflection of the culture we have built at NAIS Pudong—one where our staff feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. From professional learning opportunities to well-being initiatives, we are deeplycommitted to ensuring that every member of our team, whether in the classroomor behind the scenes, has the resources and encouragement they need to thrive. When we invest in our staff, we invest in the future of our students. This recognition is a proud moment for our entire school community."
In addition to this incredible achievement, NAIS Pudong was also a finalist for the Enterprise & Employability Award. While we didn’t take home the trophy, being shortlisted from a large number of schools across China is a testament to our commitment to preparing students for success beyond education.
We want to extend our gratitude to every member of the NAIS Pudong family—this award is a reflection of your dedication, passion, and hard work. Here’s to continued growth, well-being, and excellence!