Celebrating Chinese language and culture

Beck Ding guides Year 9 Chinese language students through a calligraphy class at Whanganui High School. PHOTO/LEWIS GARDNER

Whanganui High School students had the chance to learn about Chinese language and culture during Chinese Language Week celebrations.

Led by the school's Chinese language teacher, Beck Ding, students were invited to take part in a range of Chinese-themed activities last week.

During school breaks students could watch Chinese films (popcorn included), take part in Chinese quizzes and watch kung fu demonstrations.

Mr Ding also taught his language students skills such as writing their names in Chinese calligraphy.

He said Whanganui High School had about 100 students learning Chinese.

"It's growing all the time - it's a subject that is definitely increasing in popularity."

The school also has two Mandarin language assistants who take Chinese classes in local primary schools.

"We're trying to build a base so that students start learning the language early."

Mr Ding said there were plans to take a group of Whanganui High School students to China next year for a cultural exchange.