International success is set to grow for Loughborough College after a visit to China helped boost education partnerships.
The College demonstrated a range of teaching and met education leaders in Beijing, Chengdu and Jianyang during a five-day roadshow covering seven schools – with some signing up there and then to help develop exciting opportunities for students and staff in both countries.
With support from partners such as the British Council and the Association of Colleges, this year alone has seen Loughborough College take fully funded visits to, and develop projects with, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Qatar and Bangladesh.
“Wherever we went in China we received a fantastic welcome and so much admiration, as representatives of British education,” said College Head of International Mark Henebury. “There was a great deal of enthusiasm – at some points we were virtually mobbed by students. They were very eager to meet us and to learn, it was lovely to see.”
Together with A-level Business teacher Kelly Harris and Gary Reader, who teaches A-level English Literature, Mark spent time at Huaran High School, Chengdu Yulin High School and Chengdu Yulin Middle School, Jianyang Middle School. Sichuan Vocational and Technical College of Communications. Sichuan Xinjin High School and Beijing National Day School.
“Kelly and Gary delivered lessons in classes with up to 80 students – and the class size was not the only difference between China and the UK. Students begin their day at 8.00 am and do not finish lessons until 10.00pm.
“We talked to officials and representatives from education bureaux as well as to principals and senior leaders and were shown some outstanding facilities at schools with a curriculum including subjects like marine or automotive engineering. One school had an 8,000 capacity sport stadium.
“There was such a buzz around coming to Loughborough College to study, for summer schools and teacher training and for student and staff exchanges. In fact, three schools signed a Memorandum of Understanding with us there and then.
“These are set to be long-term international partnerships which will offer everyone involved outstanding opportunities for teaching and learning.”
Pictured: (centre left to right) Loughborough College’s Mark Henebury, Kelly Harris and Gary Reader with (to Mark’s right) Ms. Guo LinJuan, Director of Xinjin Education Bureau and (5th from right) Deputy Principal Mr. Li GuiBin at Huaran High School, during the China roadshow