Students climb new mountains on cultural exchange trip to China!
Posted 23rd March 2026
Students from Dixons Trinity Chapeltown recently embarked on an unforgettable cultural exchange trip to China where they continued to climb their mountains far beyond the classroom. Accompanied by Ms. Plahe, students Amy and Alisha represented the academy with curiosity, courage and integrity, immersing themselves in a programme designed to deepen cultural understanding and broaden their horizons. The trio visited schools in Qinhuangdao, Boading and Beijing as part of a life-changing student ambassador programme in partnership with the Hebei Provincial Association for UNESCO, aimed to build international friendships.
One of the highlights of the trip was the opportunity to explore Chinese art and creativity. Amy and Alisha took part in a water marbling workshop, creating intricate patterns on traditional Chinese tuánshàn fans, as well as a hands-on printing session. They also experienced traditional Chinese culture through a calligraphy workshop, carefully practicing the delicate brush strokes that have shaped Chinese writing for centuries. In their final school visit in Beijing, the students tried even more new creative skills including using a pottery wheel for the very first time. The experiences demonstrated how creativity and curiosity can bring people together, even when language is different, building community through shared action and understanding.
The visit offered plenty of opportunities to step outside their comfort zones. Amy and Alisha tried Jianzi, a traditional Chinese sport where players keep a shuttlecock in the air using anything but their hands. The game required determination, coordination and perseverance, an excellent reminder that mastery comes through practice and resilience. They also tried their hands at learning to play diabolo, a traditional Chinese juggling game that requires patience and coordination. Immersion in everyday life was also a key part of the experience. During their visit, the students joined a lesson taught entirely in Chinese, gaining a powerful insight into what it feels like to learn in another language and strengthening their empathy for those navigating education in a new linguistic environment.
A particularly special moment came when Amy and Alisha delivered their own presentation to students in Beijing about life at Dixons Trinity Chapeltown and what it is like to attend school in the United Kingdom. Sharing their experiences helped build meaningful connections between the two school communities and allowed them to proudly represent their academy and the values of the Dixons Difference.
Learning also continued beyond the classroom as the group explored some of China’s most iconic landmarks and cultural sites. The students visited the magnificent Great Wall of China, walked through the historic Temple of Heaven and explored the beautiful Lama Temple, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich history and traditions. They also embraced new culinary experiences, trying hot pot for the very first time and sharing meals with their hosts, an important part of building friendship, hospitality and cultural understanding.
As the trip drew to a close, it was clear that the experience had left a lasting impact. Amy and Alisha demonstrated the values of the Dixons Difference throughout the visit, representing the academy with maturity, kindness and enthusiasm while embracing every opportunity to learn and grow. The academy would like to extend its sincere thanks to their hosts in China for their warm welcome and generosity in creating such a memorable experience.
Experiences like this remind us that learning is not confined to the classroom. By stepping into new environments, embracing challenges and connecting with others, our students continue to climb their mountains and develop into thoughtful, confident global citizens.
Want to see what they got up to? Go to this Sway!
