Connecting cultures across the globe

Pupils experience Chinese culture through an immersive Friendship Camp 

Over the summer, eight pupils from Loughborough High School and four pupils from Loughborough Grammar School experienced a fully immersive trip to China, taking part in the New Oriental Cultural Tourism Group’s Jiangsu China-UK Friendship Camp. 

Centred around cultural exchange and global connection, the Camp offered pupils the opportunity to discover Chinese culture authentically by connecting with pupils of a similar age and building genuine friendships through shared activities. 

From opera face painting and a Chinese dancing performance during a visit to Jiangsu Grand Theatre, to exploring classical Jiangnan gardens, the Confucius Temple and the China Imperial Examination Museum, pupils experienced Chinese culture alongside their new friends, sharing perspectives and further strengthening their bonds with each other. 

Classroom-based activities also played a large part in the Camp’s timetable as pupils took part in a Shakespeare theatre workshop, delved into an investigation of British architecture and compared education systems across the two countries.  

What made the trip really memorable was the people we met, they were probably the friendliest people I’ve ever met. They couldn’t have been more welcoming and supportive.

Ina Gillett, Teacher of History and Politics

Reflecting on the trip, Year 11 pupil, Amelia, said: “During the week we visited local sites in Nanjing, like the gardens and museums to see how things in Chinese culture compare to those in the UK. We also did activities inspired by UK culture so that the Chinese pupils could see the differences in culture. For example, we learnt about how school systems and the style of theatre are very different by comparing our timetables and Shakespeare to Chinese opera. It was a great experience getting to meet new people and learn their culture.” 

Year 9 pupil, Khia, added: ” During my time in China, I visited a beautiful garden, explored a museum about Chinese exams, experienced a typhoon and learnt about Chinese culture. My favourite part was the garden because it was so peaceful and beautiful. I also learnt that friendship has no borders, especially when experiencing new things together. Overall, I really enjoyed the trip and made lots of amazing memories!”

Not only was this a culturally immersive trip for our pupils, but it also provided them with the opportunity to build their confidence when meeting new people, travelling abroad and trying new things. The experience taught them the value and importance of sharing cultures, understanding global perspectives and learning from the world around them.