Earlier this month, The Petersfield School welcomed 20 visitors from China for its exchange experience.

Staff and peer mentors embraced the week the Chinese students spent with them, with various cultural interaction activities helping the visitors integrate into lessons.

In conjunction with the visit, TPS also celebrated Chinese New Year, including delicious Chinese menus, which all students enjoyed.

The head of Mandarin at TPS, said: “My passion reaches its apex when I get to plan and organise these marvellous opportunities for students. It is just phenomenal to see how much commonality we can develop through the learning of each other’s differences. I wish everyone the best of luck in the Year of Snake.”

Highlights included Chinese New Year assembles and performances, origami and calligraphy workshops, a karaoke and video making competition, tasty Chinese food, trips to Oxford and various cultural exchange opportunities.

More than 600 pupils currently study Mandarin Chinese within Bohunt Education Trust Schools, including TPS. Current MEP students continue to demonstrate enthusiasm and a sustained engagement in learning Mandarin.

In offering an intensive programme with the benefit of an immersive approach, TPS hopes to significantly enhance language proficiency and deepen understanding of Chinese culture.

TPS said: “Students thoroughly enjoyed this intercultural exchange experience and formed meaningful friendships with each other.

“A huge thank you to Mr Zhang, all our staff and students who help plan and participate in the MEP and associated events. We look forward to repeating again next year!”