One of the missions on Pao School is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for Chinese. The Co-Curricular Programme provides opportunities for students to immerse themselves in the rich and diverse elements of Chinese culture. A variety of different Chinese cultural activities are available for students to choose from, including calligraphy, Chinese dance, Taichi, Chinese music ensemble and Chinese drama productions.
At Pao School we recognise sport as an essential part of whole person education and value its importance in each student's physical, mental and social well-being. We aim to have every student participate as much as possible while giving their best efforts to reach their potential as an athlete as well as an individual. Above all, we value effort and commitment as key qualities we expect from each participant. We take pride in the number and range of activities and courses offered, such as swimming, football, basketball, fitness, fencing, martial arts, and many more. Students have opportunities to hone their skills in a wide range of sports via the Co-Curricular Sports Programme.
Students also have the opportunity to travel to other schools and develop their athletic skills through competition. Pao School is one of the founding members of the Shanghai Schools Sports Association (SSSA), a league consisting of approximately 20 international and bilingual schools that compete throughout the year in a wide range of sports. We continue to build relationships with schools outside of Shanghai and students at our higher year levels have participated in major competitions abroad.
Performing Arts encompasses activities such as drama, music and dance. We emphasise the importance of time dedicated to developing the skills necessary for these activities and give students opportunities to demonstrate their learning outcomes. There are a number of different musical groups that students can join, including orchestra, Pep/Jazz Band, Beginner Strings Orchestra and choir. For students who are interested in drama or dance, there are also different options available in these areas. Performances are organised at various times throughout the school year, allowing students to showcase their talents to both their peers and their parents.
These are a more varied selection of activities designed to increase, complement, and expand student learning. There are some academic based, teacher-led activities such as French, Spanish, Math, Debate, Model UN, Public Speaking, pottery and baking. Students will also have the opportunity to set up and run their own clubs in areas that are of particular interest to them. Students can join together as a club to exchange ideas and opinions, expand their knowledge and develop their talents as a team. Student-led clubs offer opportunities for students to take initiative and develop their leadership skills. Some examples of student led clubs include Dough Figurines, Pao Productions, student newspaper, Yearbook, environmental club, Rubik's cube, and photography.
The Co-Curricular Programme allows for students from all year levels to get involved with community service projects. Pao School is developing links within the local community to offer volunteer opportunities for our students to get involved. Through community service work, we seek to instil in our students the school's core values of compassion, integrity and balance.