Authors: Liu Zelin, Pang Jieyi, Wang Xue, Zhou Yuxuan, Liu Zelin

Publisher: College of Chinese Language and Culture  

Date: August 6, 2024  

The 2024 Mandarin Excellence Programme summer camp in China has successfully concluded, marking a significant milestone in promoting Chinese language proficiency among British high school students. Jointly organized by the Chinese Foreign Language Exchange and Cooperation Center of the Ministry of Education and the British Council, this program has supported over 6,000 British students in immersive Chinese language training activities over the past five years. This year, for the first time, the program was launched in the Guangzhou area, with Jinan University serving as one of the host universities.

Engaging Learning Experience

During the ten-day camp, 54 students from Colyton Grammar School, St Ignatius College, and Fortismere School participated in various Chinese language classes, cultural activities, and hands-on experiences. The program also included 20 language volunteers from multiple secondary schools in China, fostering an environment for cross-cultural communication and teamwork.

The summer camp aimed to create a boundaryless classroom experience that transcended national and cultural boundaries. This was achieved through innovative teaching methods that integrated technology and interactive games, allowing students to master practical Chinese conversations while exploring the rich history and culture of China. Cultural classes included Chinese calligraphy, tea art, and martial arts, while practical skills were taught through activities such as supermarket shopping and traditional sports.

(Courses transcend boundaries, fostering enjoyable interactions between teachers and students)

Cultural Exploration and Exchange

Students had the opportunity to explore significant landmarks in the Lingnan region, such as the Chen Family Temple in Guangzhou and the Ancestral Temple in Foshan. These visits provided them with insights into Chinese architectural beauty and folk arts. The Guangdong Provincial Museum showcased the innovative technology used to preserve China's millennia-old civilization, allowing students to appreciate both traditional culture and modern advancements.

The camp also emphasized the importance of friendship and cultural exchange. Collaborations with local high schools allowed British students to engage in English classes and share cultural experiences, such as birthday celebrations. The interactions sparked lively discussions, laughter, and a spirit of camaraderie, embodying the program's goal of promoting mutual respect and understanding.

(Explore the streets and immerse in the vibrant urban culture)

Student Reflections

As the camp concluded, students expressed their gratitude and enthusiasm for their experiences. Meave Curry from Fortismere School shared her excitement about communicating with local Chinese people for the first time, while Justin Shin from Colyton Grammar School found a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Chinese language. Adam Mati from St Ignatius College highlighted his enjoyment of Chinese tea, which he will fondly remember as part of his experience at Jinan University.

(Chinese and British students foster a friendly and supportive environment, collaborating closely to achieve progress together)

The Chinese Language Proficiency project team at University College London sent a thank-you letter to Jinan University, praising the meticulous planning and management of the summer camp. They commended the teaching team's dedication and the contributions of Chinese volunteers in fostering friendship and interaction between Chinese and British youth.

(Thank-you letter from the Chinese Language Proficiency project team at the School of Education, University College London)

The 2024 Chinese Language Proficiency Program summer camp not only enhanced the language skills of British students but also deepened their appreciation for Chinese culture. This successful collaboration serves as an exemplary model for educational cooperation and cultural exchange, paving the way for future initiatives that promote understanding and friendship across borders.