THE WEYDON Multi Academy Trust (WMAT) has developed a partnership between Weydon School and two schools in China.

The trust was on the hunt to identify countries with “an exceptional educational system” and to create an exchange “to give the opportunity for students and teachers to learn from other successful schools”.

With support of trip provider Access China, the international coordinators at Weydon School have designed an exchange with two schools in Chengdu (Sichuan region) and Yuping (Guizhou region).

Over October half term, teachers Chloe Meck, Carol Warnock and Morgane Laurens visited the schools, receiving a warm welcome from students and staff.

They were introduced to calligraphy, Mandarin language and local customs. They also volunteered at a giant panda sanctuary in Chengdu, visited Tian’an Men square in Beijing and the famous Great Wall.

Morgane Laurens, international coordinator from Weydon School, said: “The trip was a tremendous success. We were delighted to see the Chinese schools were as enthusiastic as we are about this future partnership.

“We have been able to conduct the risk assessment checks and we now have a very precise idea of the itinerary we want to develop. We are thrilled to be launching this exchange as we strongly believe British and Chinese students will benefit from learning about a very different culture and school system.

“The WMAT is committed to developing students’ intercultural intelligence and open-mindedness to become global citizens and this exchange represents a fabulous opportunity for them.”