The South China Normal University Zhanjiang School is inaugurated in Chikan district on Sept 10. [Photo/Zhanjiang Daily]

An affiliated school of the prestigious South China Normal University (SCNU) opened in Chikan district, Zhanjiang on Sept 10, welcoming its first 500 students.

Costing a total of 600 million yuan ($87 million), the South China Normal University Zhanjiang School will be jointly operated by SCNU, Chikan District People's Government, and Shenzhen Ding Neng Group.

The 200-mu (13-hectare) complex can accommodate up to 5,000 students from kindergarten to Grade 12. It is equipped with the most advanced teaching equipment, libraries, digital reading rooms, and digital remote education systems in the country.

All teachers have at least a bachelor's degree, and some have even graduated from China's 211 or 985 key universities. Before starting their jobs, teachers are required to receive training at SCNU's affiliated primary and high schools in Guangzhou.

Founded in 1933, SCNU is a Double First-Class Discipline University, with Double First-Class status in certain disciplines. Its affiliated high school in Guangzhou is already a national demonstration high school with an established reputation.

The school’s first 500 students attend the orientation ceremony on Sept 10. [Photo/Zhanjiang Daily]