Last week students, families and staff were treated to the Temple Fair and Beautiful China performances at Yew Chung International School of Beijing. The Beautiful China performances were an incredible feat – put together by the Chinese homeroom teachers in just a matter of weeks following the Christmas break. Meanwhile, Temple Fair was the first major event organised by our new Secondary Chinese Co-ordinator, Ms Amy Zhang, along with valuable contributions from our Secondary students and Chinese staff. 

Running stalls at the Temple Fair gave our Upper Secondary students the opportunity to complete the "Service" component of the IB Diploma’s CAS requirement. The stalls were designed by the Chinese Department to promote traditional Chinese activities, among them, lantern painting, knot making, traditional calligraphy, mask decorating and fan making. It was also great to see students fundraising for various charities by selling dumplings, Hong Kong tea and trinkets.

Students throughout the school have been working hard to create decorations for the gymnasium. Spectacular lanterns, banners and fans were suspended from the ceiling filled the gymnasium with festive colour. Entertainment was provided by traditional lion dances and our resident student band playing popular Chinese hits, as well as special appearances by the God of Wealth Cáishén who handed out red envelopes or hóngbāo to the children.

Meanwhile, the Primary Beautiful China performances took place in the auditorium. They were a brilliant display of musical talent, choreography and costume. An education as well as a visual spectacle, these performances are an important opportunity for students to engage with traditional Chinese music and dance.

“This year is the first time I have been able to see all of our students’ performances” commented Mr James Sweeney, Head of Primary. “I was amazed by the attention to detail and quality in each.”

Our warmest thanks to all families who joined us to celebrate the spirit of the Chinese New Year. Thank you also to Ms Amy Zhang, the Chinese teachers, Secondary students, Ms Erin Luce, and Ms Allison Cusato for working tirelessly all morning to make this such a memorable event.

Finally, we wish you all a happy Chinese New Year!