During half term, a group of students enjoyed a ten day trip to China.
The first stop was Hong Kong, where they visited Lantau Island and saw white dolphins whilst sailing the South China Sea. A visit to Ping Village was followed by a trip to the Big Buddhah, before taking the cable car back down the mountain to head off to Chendu, a short flight away.
In Chendu the group visited the Panda Breeding Research Centre and Weishu Monastery. They were treated to the famous ‘face-changing’ act at a traditional tea room and enjoyed extracts from the Sichuan Opera.
The students all enjoyed the cultural activities; visits to the centuries old Dujiangyan irrigation site and Dufu Cottage (home to one of China’s greatest poets) were followed by a visit to Haisha School in Taiwan.
Whilst in Taiwan the students visited Jeufren, a traditional town in the mountains, and an ancient temple before beginning their home-stay and three days of lessons in Haishan High School.
Aidan Keogh said of the trip: “I highly recommend this trip for students seeking further development in Chinese.” Kristian Rees said: “My highlight was being hosted by extremely welcoming families”, and Robert Wilding said: “My highlight was visiting Hai-Shan High School, because I made many new friends who helped me understand the lessons in Chinese”.
It’s clear that this cultural exchange has enhanced our students’ understanding of Chinese culture and Mandarin, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves!
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