Michael Wester.[Photo by Zhang Xingjian/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Wester and Nath talked about the advantages of international schools.

Q: What is the purpose of holding an international education expo?

Wester: It is difficult for every family to take the time to visit a number of the schools that are available in Beijing. Beijing is a metropolis with busy traffic. Even if you have the time to do that, it takes months to visit all the international schools. We just want to bring all the Beijing international schools together in one place so parents can choose the probable school for their children.

Nath: From my perspective, dialogue is so important and people should know each other. Talking about issues that are important to parents on education is especially necessary. Different parents have different concerns. I really think it’s a good idea to hold such an expo.

Q: Are international schools “international” enough?

Wester: Certainly, they’re international. Kids like my daughter in the international schools have easier access to people from different countries. It’s quite amazing to bring various cultures into one class. I often envy my daughter for experiencing so much international exposure at an earlier age. Besides, lots of people have said to me that Beijing international schools were incredible in terms of facilities, programs and teachers.

Nath: Yes, the international schools are very international and there is no doubt about it. From my perspective, they offer the IB (International Baccalaureate), an international diploma program that was officially established in Geneva. I am a true believer in it because I personally went through this education system.

Q: Once an elite education program tailored for special groups like diplomatic officers, international schooling is now open to a much larger group. What is your view on such a trend?

Wester: It’s hard to say because there are so many different schools. However, one of the trends is that there appear to be a lot of mixed schools and people have more choices. Ten years ago, Chinese schools were for Chinese students while international schools were for foreigners. Nowadays, many international schools have permission from the Ministry of Education to admit Chinese students. On the Chinese end, local schools are able to admit foreigners. Besides, many returned overseas Chinese families also look for international schools for their children.

Nath: I think it reflects what kind of foreigners are in China. It only used to be diplomats, journalists or experts here. Now, people from all walks of life come to Beijing. But my only concern for some international schools is that they are really made for elites and rich kids. It’s bad to see many Chinese students are not able to go into these schools.