Kids explore Chinese culture
YOUNGSTERS at a Runcorn school have been given an insight into Chinese culture during a special visit.
The event, for years five and six, took place at Windmill Hill Primary School in collaboration with the University of Liverpool Confucius Institute.
As part of an introduction to Chinese culture and language, pupils tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy and traditional arts and crafts, as well learning some basic Mandarin.
Runcorn East MP Mike Amesbury, who joined in the activities, said: “My office has been working with the University of Liverpool Confucius Institute to introduce Chinese language provision in Runcorn.
“This wonderful taster event was a great opportunity for youngsters to gain an insight into Chinese culture and start learning Mandarin, the most widely spoken language in the world.
“Studies have shown it’s good for development because Mandarin uses more parts of the brain than required for other languages. And who knows where it might lead one day in terms of travel, making new friends and possibly even work.”
Headteacher Paula Newman said: “The children thoroughly enjoyed the China Culture Day.
“They particularly enjoyed the arts and crafts. We are really looking forward to working with the university in the future and enhancing our language skills.”
Dr Penny Ding, deputy director at the University of Liverpool Confucius Institute, added: “We were pleased to see how much the pupils at Windmill Hill enjoyed all the sessions, impressing our team with their enthusiasm for learning.
“The team at Liverpool Confucius Institute hope to continue providing such opportunities for all those who are interested in Chinese language and culture, especially our youngsters.”