ThinkChinese, which currently offers Mandarin lessons in some Island schools, hopes its newly established summer school will not only engage Islanders with the language but also Chinese culture.
It is the first activity programme in Jersey that will focus on Chinese culture, including tai chi, art, theatre and cooking.
The summer school is open to students between Year 6 and Year 10 and is due to run from Monday 14 August until Friday 18 August, with full-day and half-day sessions available. A full day costs £240.
Briony Sun, founder of ThinkChinese, says it is important that Islanders seek opportunities to learn Mandarin – the world’s most widely spoken language. She said: ‘Despite its size, Jersey is a significant offshore jurisdiction which attracts a wide range of people from all parts of the world. In keeping with that international outlook, which has in recent times focused heavily on Asia, Jersey undoubtedly benefits from direct exposure to the Mandarin language and the Chinese culture and way of life.
‘We believe that the ThinkChinese summer school is something new and something different, which ought to appeal to the Island’s desire to establish itself as a forward-thinking and culturally inclusive place to live and to do business.’
ThinkChinese currently runs more than 30 language lessons with nearly a quarter of the schools in Jersey. A group of local students aged between 14 and 20 years old will be travelling to China later this year, sponsored by the Chinese government. The students are due to visit Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Chongqing and also take a cruise in the Yangtze River.
Mrs Sun said the planned summer events will bring huge opportunities to Jersey. She said: ‘Historically, Jersey has been under the influence of France. French and other European languages, such as Italian, German and Spanish are widely taught in Jersey schools. In recent decades, China has developed into a powerful country which exerts influence in key areas, including banking and finance, trade, transport, education and tourism.
‘To learn the Chinese language enables Jersey people, especially its younger generation, to understand the Chinese culture, business conventions and its unique philosophy. To understand China better also brings in opportunities for Jersey and enable it to be closely connected to the wider world.’
To find out more about the summer school contact ThinkChinese on 864873, or email info@thinkchinese.net.
