On Friday 22nd September, 15 teachers from China descended on Tytherington School to find out what life is like in a UK School. Tytherington School was selected because it is a high performing comprehensive school and the Chinese government are funding visits for teachers to find out more about creativity in the classroom.
The first part of the visit was a seminar hosted by Mr Botwe who gave an overview of the culture and structure of the English Secondary School system. The teachers then met with members of the School Parliament and were given an opportunity to ask students about life in the UK. After a student led school tour, the teachers from China then went to observe lessons. There was also an opportunity for the teachers to have a traditional fish and chips lunch with students in the Refectory.
Ms Sophia Sheng, who was the translator for the day, said: “We were absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to visit Tytherington School. We would love to do it again. The teachers from China were fascinated with the way in which creativity is being allowed to flourish in the school.”
Headteacher, Manny Botwe, said: “We are planning to develop Mandarin at Tytherington School and we currently have an application in with the Department of Education to support with the delivery of Mandarin next year. Fingers crossed! It is also part of our Electives Programme. Changes in the global geo-political landscape mean that we need to prepare our students for the future.”
Year 9 student Gregor Watson said: “I really enjoyed meeting the teachers from China and telling them about life in the UK.”