Global Perspectives: China Tour

In October, 16 Grammar students, together with myself and fellow teacher Mr Brent Colgrave, were joined by 13 students and two teachers from St Michael’s Collegiate, for an educational tour of China.

The journey began in Beijing, where we walked the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City; explored the ancient Hutongs by rickshaw; shopped at local markets; participated in a calligraphy lesson and Beijing opera mask painting; and enjoyed delicious Chinese feasts at various restaurants.

A high-speed train took us to Xi’an where students had a Chinese language lesson, shopped in the Muslim Quarter market, rode bikes along the ancient city wall, practised Taichi in the park and toured the Terracotta Warriors. Another high-speed train took us to Chengdu, where we enjoyed a Sichuan opera and acrobatics show, exquisite cuisine, and a day at the panda research station.

The tour concluded with a flight to Shanghai for a visit to a local school, shopping, and a river boat cruise. We were so proud of our students, who behaved impeccably and immersed themselves in Chinese culture.

To offer a glimpse into the experience from a student’s perspective, eight of our travellers share their reflections.

Ms Louise Ives, Mandarin Teacher

 

Student Reflections From Their China Tour

China was an amazing experience. In the first three days, we visited the Forbidden City, walked the Great Wall and visited the famous Beijing ‘Snack Street’. The Forbidden City was huge and had many beautiful buildings where the empires had lived before. We were able to see the length of the Great Wall and its beautiful views. We were able to see a new culture and a different perspective on life. We were introduced to many Chinese people who warmly welcomed us and had opportunities to try some new things such as eating fried crickets!

Toby Taylor, Somma Bazaadut and Zachary Cubitt, Grade 8 and 9 Students 

 

Lily and I enjoyed many aspects of our time in China, especially making new friends from Collegiate, seeing the rich history, and experiencing a different culture to our own. We really enjoyed going to the panda sanctuary in Chengdu and visiting the Shanghai Experimental School to meet some Chinese students and learn about education in China. We highly recommend that everyone comes to China at least once in their lifetime. Lily and I especially loved seeing all the big cities and famous tourist spots.

Ruby Wright and Lily Taylor, Grade 9 Students

 

China was an unforgettable experience that will always stick with us. Throughout the trip, we explored many iconic destinations and got a glimpse into authentic Chinese culture. The Great Wall was one of our biggest highlights. The walk towards the last tower was steep and pushed our limits, but with group determination and unreal views we completed the journey. Another high point in Beijing was the Forbidden City. We made our way around many ancient palaces and halls, all highly decorated and extravagant.

We had many encounters with the locals, including joining in with Chinese street dances, and communicating and bargaining independently at local street markets, despite language barriers. It’s hard to describe how delicious the Chinese cuisine tastes. Each dish was so unique and caused us to push the limits of how much our bellies could hold! Jam-packed days full of activities left us exhausted, but everyone on the tour managed to stay optimistic and respectful. We had the time of our lives and made memories that will stay with us forever.

Cacia Charles, Arabella Hirst and Ginny Nguyen, Grade 8 Students