Boteler strengthens links with China

LINKS between Warrington’s Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School and a school in China have been strengthened by exchange visits between teaching staff at the two schools.
Mrs Kate Coleclough, head of citizenship at Boteler spent a week at the high school affiliated to the University of Architecture and Technology in Xi’an experiencing Chinese education.
She was given a warm welcome by staff and pupils, taught several English lessons and gave a lecture to 250 17-year-old students on British culture.
In return, the Chinese students gave her lessons in the art of paper cutting and calligraphy and Tai Chi and she was able to take part in the weekly flag raising ceremony.
She observed many lessons to see how Chinese colleagues work and was able to pick up some ideas to bring back to Boteler.
Mrs Coleclough also caught up with Mr Zhang Yi, or “Roy” as he was affectionately known when he spent 10 months teaching Mandarin Chinese at Boteler last year.
He was able to show her the sights and culture of Xi’an – an experience she can share with pupils and staff at Boteler.
Head teacher at the Xi’an school, Cheng “Catherine” Xiaoling, was able to visit Boteler where she was given a warm welcome and particularly enjoyed watching music lessons and visiting the singing club.
Mrs Coleclough took her on a visit to London during her stay.
It is hoped to arrange exchange trips between groups of pupils from the two schools during the next 18 months.
Picture: Mrs Coleclough with the head of the Chinese school and another member of the school staff.