This year, eleven pupils and two teachers from each side participated in the exchange.
The Taiwanese arrived on 31st May, following a nine-day intensive programme on British language and culture. During the week, they learned Scottish folklore, made shortbread, experienced Ceilidh and Highland dance, shadowed their buddies, and visited the Royal Yacht Britannia and Stirling Castle for day trips. They also spent time with their host families to explore Scottish lifestyle.
The reciprocal leg of the exchange was equally exciting. Nine FIII Dollar pupils participated in the school programme to find out more about Chinese culture and to practice Mandarin. They learned self-defence through Martial Arts, used an indigo dyeing technique to make hairbands, made calligraphy pens and visited the tallest building in Taiwan – Taipei 101.
Two FV pupils, Jamie and Connie, worked as teaching assistants in a local primary school. They brought Taiwanese P2 pupils a range of lessons including Scottish culture, football, Ceilidh and English. The primary school pupils enjoyed their company and their efforts were much appreciated. Dollar pupils also made the most of their time with their host families by participating in evening and weekend activities, such as visiting the all-time favourite night markets, hiking and letting off sky lanterns.
We would like to continue to strengthen our friendship with Zhongping Juinor High School and we believe this exchange is of real value to pupils from both sides. We look forward to our exchange next year.
Written by: Cecelia Wei, Mandarin Teacher
