China Days launch a year of engagement

Last month, the Confucius Institute hosted two vibrant events for schools in Cardiff University’s Widening Participation network.

The China Day sessions welcomed around 120 pupils from two primary schools and one secondary school. Activities included a clay ‘food party,’ exploring the Chinese zodiac, and creating 'oracle bone art' - an ancient form of writing originally carved on shells and bones.

True to tradition, the days offered variety for all types of minds and abilities. Pupils experienced Baduanjin - a gentle exercise promoting both calm and energy, learned Mandarin through song, and even tried classical Chinese dance.

Both events took place at the School of Modern Languages. The first was run in partnership with Reaching Wider, and held for Key Stage 3 pupils from care-experienced and young carer backgrounds. Reaching Wider is a Cardiff University programme that works with schools, colleges, and communities to raise aspirations and support progression into higher education for under-represented learners.

The second China Day was held for two primary schools in the Primary School Programme network, and marked the launch of this year’s project. The Primary School Programme is also based at Cardiff University, and aims to raise aspirations and confidence among Year 6 pupils from schools facing socio-economic challenges.

Feedback from children from the event was overwhelmingly positive:

"It was amazing, and I’d be so happy if we could come again."

"They include everyone’s language and are great at teaching."

"I love it here and I have to come back when I’m older."

Two additional China Days are being planned with the Primary School Programme for the spring.