Over half term, a group of Trinity students from the Third Year to Lower Sixth set off on a seven-day cultural adventure across China, visiting the iconic cities of Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shanghai. The trip was a unique opportunity to experience life, language and learning beyond the classroom, and it is safe to say our students returned with plenty of memories and stories to tell.
In Chengdu, the group immersed themselves in the region’s traditions, wildlife and cuisine. “The best parts were definitely the hands-on days,” said Upper Sixth students Alfred B and Adrian B. “We helped make panda cakes at the Dujiangyan Panda Project, which was a really cool experience. Seeing the huge Leshan Giant Buddha and learning about its history was amazing, and we loved painting our own faces during the Sichuan opera mask workshop. Chengdu really showed us the cultural identity of China.”
From there, they travelled to Hangzhou, known for its serene lakes and temples. “It showed us a mix of traditional and modern life and certainly earned its name of ‘Paradise on Earth’,” said Alfred. “Taking a boat ride on West Lake and learning how to drink tea properly during the Longjing tea ceremony was a lovely break, although maybe not as exciting as the pandas.”
The visit to Hangzhou WAS School was a highlight for many. “Seeing the contrast between that and an English school, and making some good friends in such a short time, was eye-opening,” said Adrian. “We would definitely love to do another exchange like that.”
To finish, the group explored Shanghai, a city that dazzled with its modern skyline. They strolled through the historic Zhujiajiao water town, took in the view from the Shanghai Tower and enjoyed a river cruise at night. “Shanghai fully showcases China’s modernity with its vast skyscrapers and mind-blowing buildings,” said Alfred.
Third Year students Eshan P and Micah S summed it up best in their trip report:
“One of the best trips we have ever been on,” they said. “We made so many memories.”
Fourth Year students William T and Harith A agreed. “We found the trip very enjoyable with many lasting memories,” they said. “A few of the highlights were the pandas, Hangzhou School and the Shanghai night-time cruise. It was amazing to see the cultural parts of Chengdu and the technology of Shanghai.”
Third Year Theo added, “I really enjoyed the food and visiting the markets where we got to haggle prices. The Sichuan Opera show was incredible, and the pandas were definitely the highlight of the holiday. If I could improve anything, I would make the trip a bit longer.”
Our thanks go to our brilliant guides, Summer and David, and to the teachers who made it possible.
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