A Truly Amazing Cultural Experience Grade 10 Week Without Walls:
Our six-day educational expedition through eastern China provided students with an immersive experience in Chinese culture, education, and modern development. The journey, from November 10th-15th, 2024, encompassed three major citiesShanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou - each offering unique insights into China's rich heritage and contemporary progress.
The trip's educational focus was highlighted by visits to prestigious institutions. At Fudan University, one of China's top academic establishments, students gained valuable perspectives on higher education in China and potential international study opportunities. The visit to NYU Shanghai further demonstrated the growing intersection of Eastern and Western educational approaches, providing students with a global perspective on academic possibilities.
In Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East," students explored the UNESCO World Heritage site Zhuozheng Yuan (The Humble Administrator's Garden), where they learned about classical Chinese garden design principles and their philosophical foundations. The Suzhou Museum offered insights into the region's artistic heritage and historical artefacts. The ancient Pingjiang Road provided students with a firsthand experience of traditional Chinese street culture and architecture.
Shanghai, China's largest city, served as an excellent showcase of modern China. Students witnessed the country's economic development at the Super Brand Mall and experienced the vibrant energy of Nanjing Road. The iconic Bund waterfront offered a striking visual representation of China's architectural evolution, where historic colonial-era buildings stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers.
The West Lake show in Hangzhou demonstrated China's artistic prowess through a spectacular display of music, light, and performance art. This was complemented by a visit to Hangzhou's Arts and Crafts Museum, where students learned about traditional Chinese craftsmanship and its modern applications. The historic Leifeng Pagoda provided panoramic views of West Lake while teaching students about Buddhist architecture and legends.
Deepest gratitude to Ms. Min, whose exceptional leadership as trip administrator created an environment of learning and growth throughout our journey. Her dedication to fostering both academic excellence and personal development in our students was evident in every carefully planned activity.
Special appreciation goes to Khun Tang, whose meticulous attention to logistics ensured a seamless experience that allowed students to focus fully on their learning and cultural immersion.
Students returned with not only a deeper understanding of China's past and present but also a strengthened sense of their own potential as future global leaders. The journey fostered cultural awareness, academic inspiration, and personal growth through direct engagement with various aspects of Chinese society, perfectly aligning with Concordian's educational objectives and values.
