During Half term our Mandarin RMS Pupils went on a trip to China. Mandarin is the official language of China and is spoken by approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide.
The trip began in Beijing, with visits to some of China’s most iconic landmarks. Pupils stood in the vast expanse of Tian’anmen Square, explored the historical corridors of the Forbidden City, and ascended the majestic Great Wall, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the country’s rich history.
Another highlight was the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and spirituality. On the final morning in Beijing, pupils visited a local school for children of migrant workers, joining them in their PE lesson and demonstrating Drill – an experience that bridged cultures through shared activities and connection.
The next stop was Xi’an, home to the famous Terracotta Warriors. Pupils marvelled at the lifelike statues, each crafted to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor. Exploring the ancient Xi’an City Wall was another memorable experience; pupils cycled along this 600-year-old structure and even dressed in traditional Chinese attire, immersing themselves in the city’s rich historical ambiance.
In Sichuan, pupils experienced China’s culinary arts firsthand at the Sichuan Cuisine Museum, where they learned to prepare three traditional dishes. At the Wolong Panda Research Base, they contributed by preparing food for the pandas and observing these gentle animals from a close distance of 50 cm.
The pupils were also captivated by a Sichuan Opera performance, particularly the mesmerising Face-Changing act, and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional tea house, sharing in the local custom of tea-drinking.
This trip provided pupils with a meaningful connection to China’s heritage, leaving them with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for its vibrant culture and traditions. A big thank you to the MFL department for making this incredible experience possible!