Albion Primary School’s Life-Changing Educational Visit to China: Building Bridges, Broadening Horizons

In March and April 2025, twelve Year 6 pupils  along with Ayesha (teaching assistant), Jordon (teacher), Jess (Assistant Headteacher) and Mr Bardouille (Headteacher) embarked on an unforgettable educational journey across China, visiting three cities — including the vibrant and historic cities of Beijing and Changsha. Over a remarkable 10-day period, the children visited 9 schools, experiencing a warm and deeply inspiring welcome at every stop.

We visited:

Changsha Cranleigh School, Shazitang Primary School, Fengshushan Primary School, Shazitang Tianhua Primary School, Taiya Primary School, Xiangjun Future School, Songshan Lake North District School, Dongguan SSL Experimental Primary School and The Affiliated Primary School of Zhuzhou No.2 High School.

"It was exciting when we were able to hold the dragon for the first time..."

Each school opened its doors with genuine hospitality and pride, offering us a glimpse into China’s dynamic, future-facing education system. We were consistently overwhelmed by the quality, innovation, and heart that radiated from every corner of their campuses. From state-of-the-art AI computing integration to a holistic approach to well-being through daily exercise and mindfulness, Chinese schools offered a profound model of how education can be both rigorous and nurturing.

Our children were amazed to see the breadth of extracurricular activities on offer. Clubs ranged from sports and cooking to dragon display teams, ceramics, robotics, and more. It was particularly moving to witness performances from world-class orchestras — made up of children aged 10 to 12 — who played both traditional Chinese instruments and modern ones, with songs so powerful they echoed through the halls and deep into our hearts.

To watch video clips of Albion's adventures to schools in China, click here. 

 One of the most moving elements of the trip was the immediate connection between our students and the children in China. Language proved no barrier — our pupils came prepared with basic Mandarin, and many Chinese children spoke English fluently or to a good standard, thanks to its inclusion in the Chinese national curriculum. Friendships blossomed effortlessly as gifts were exchanged, showing us the incredible power of engagement, connection, and curiosity.

We are proud to have signed Friendship School Agreements with several of the schools we visited. These partnerships stand as a testament to the shared commitment between Albion Primary School and the Chinese schools to foster mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration. We serve as a beacon of global responsibility, showing that education extends far beyond the classroom walls — it is about shaping thoughtful, informed citizens of the world.

Through this journey, our pupils have gained not only knowledge but also empathy, cultural awareness, and a new sense of what is possible. They return home inspired and empowered, with a deep appreciation for both the similarities and differences between our educational systems.

As we continue our journey at Albion Primary School with our partner schools in China, we do so with open hearts and an unwavering commitment to creating a future where children thrive — together. This experience is only the beginning. The bridges we’ve built will carry our children toward a brighter, more connected world.

We thank the governors of Albion Primary School for moving forward with the Albion vision, and thank China UK Gateway and Purpure for making this educational visit happen by organising the whole event.