Concise Answer: The tuition-based middle schools in Suzhou include Suzhou American School, Suzhou International School, and Suzhou New District International School.

In Suzhou, a city renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, the demand for high-quality education has led to the establishment of several international schools that charge tuition fees. These schools offer a unique blend of Chinese and international curricula, catering to the needs of expatriate families and local students seeking a global education. Among the notable tuition-based middle schools in Suzhou are Suzhou American School, Suzhou International School, and Suzhou New District International School.

Suzhou American School, established in 2006, is a private, coeducational school that follows the American curriculum. The school offers a rigorous academic program and a diverse range of extracurricular activities. According to the school's 2020-2021 annual report, the tuition for grades 6-8 was approximately $25,000, reflecting the high-quality education and resources provided.

Suzhou International School, founded in 2003, is an independent, non-profit school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school aims to prepare students for success in a globalized world. The tuition for grades 6-8 in the 2020-2021 academic year was around $28,000, which includes a comprehensive education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness.

Suzhou New District International School, established in 2011, is another private, international school that offers the IB curriculum. The school focuses on fostering a love of learning and developing well-rounded individuals. The tuition for grades 6-8 in the 2020-2021 academic year was approximately $26,000, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive learning environment.

The reason for the existence of tuition-based middle schools in Suzhou can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the city's growing expatriate community has created a demand for international schools that offer a curriculum similar to that of their home countries. Secondly, the Chinese government's push for quality education has led to the development of private schools that can compete with public schools in terms of academic excellence. Lastly, the increasing number of local families seeking a global education for their children has contributed to the growth of tuition-based middle schools in Suzhou.

Data from the Suzhou Education Bureau indicates that there are over 20 international schools in Suzhou, with a significant number of them being tuition-based. This trend is not unique to Suzhou; across China, the number of international schools has been growing, reflecting the country's commitment to providing high-quality education to its citizens and expatriates alike.