Soong Ching Ling Kindergarten 宋庆齡幼儿园

Olivia and Jessica attend the most prestigious Kindergarten in Shanghai known as Soong Ching Ling Kindergarten. The truth be told, it is probably the best Kindergarten in China, period.

It is so well known, that to mention the name Soong Ching Ling to any passer by in any city we’ve visited in China, is met with the same response- immediate knowledge of the kindergarten and its high regard.

The children attend the Chinese Division which is separate to the International division. We are the only British family in this current year and the only non-Chinese parents in the school.

I mention ‘we’ because it is a family that actually joins the fold at the school. It is emotionally & physically supported by the parents which adds to the sprinkle of magic that goes a long way in upholding the traditions of the Kindergarten. The community is woven tightly so, which adds to its sense of mystery.

Not much of the Model Kindergarten is shared with the public. But what is known for certain is that the school is a Model school for which the establishment regards is exemplary for which other kindergartens base their frameworks on. Families who attend often from the higher echelons of the community.

Its been a great experience over the last few years to join in and take part in the continuing long history of the Kindergarten community.

Madame Soong Ching Ling

Madame Soong Ching Ling, whom the Kindergarten and school are named after, was a political figure and champion of women born in 1893 in Shanghai. In 1938 she founded the Chinese Welfare Institute with the aim of funding children’s well being, health and education. She was educated in China and the United States. She left her mark after her passing in 1981, aged 90 years old.

After Madame Soong Ching Ling’s death, three days of national mourning was announced in China. You will frequently see memorials, parks and marked former residences in many cities of China, as a form of remembrance and honour.