A Journey of a Lifetime: Our First Language Study Tour to China

This September, 15 of our Year 9 and 10 Mandarin students embarked on a truly unforgettable journey — our school’s very first Language Study Tour to China. Over two weeks, students immersed themselves in the language and culture, experiencing first-hand the depth and beauty of modern and ancient China.

Our adventure began in Beijing, where we explored iconic sites such as the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall — which we reached via ski lift and descended on a toboggan! Students sampled local delicacies, cooked dumplings in a Beijing family’s home, played jianzi in a park, and shopped at traditional markets, including the famous White Rabbit candy store. One highlight was visiting a local high school, where students took part in a PE lesson and learned how to march in true Chinese style.

From Beijing, we boarded the bullet train to Xi’an to visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. Students spent a full day at one of China’s top high schools, shadowing their Chinese buddies in class and sharing lunch in a canteen large enough for 700 students. The friendships formed were genuine and heartfelt — it was hard to say goodbye. That evening, we stepped back in time, donning traditional costumes from dynasties past in a magical cultural experience.

Our final stop was Shanghai — a vibrant metropolis where old meets new. We soared up one of the tallest buildings in the world in a lift that travels 20 metres per second, cruised through the canals of the “Venice of Asia,” and explored a museum with artefacts dating back 20,000 years. Futuristic hotels, bustling shopping streets, unforgettable views and a night cruise to see city lights made it the perfect finale.

As the Chinese proverb says, “读万卷书，不如行万里路” — “Reading ten thousand books is not as useful as travelling ten thousand miles.” This journey brought language learning to life in the most powerful way.

Throughout the tour, our students demonstrated curiosity, resilience, and deep cultural respect. Special thanks to Huang Laoshi for her tireless organisation and to Mr Teo for his invaluable support. We’re also grateful to our guide Michael, who quickly became the father of our tour family.

This journey wasn’t just a trip — it was an education beyond the classroom and memories to last a lifetime. We can’t wait to go again!

Mme Harrison