General News
29 October, 2025
A taste of Chinese culture
A group of Stawell Secondary College students have returned from an unforgettable two-week cultural and educational journey with a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture. Four college staff and 25 students made the trip to China, visiting Shanghai, Beijing and the historic city of Xi’an, taking in the sights, sounds and flavours along the way. Teacher Ling Zhao put in tireless work to secure funding to make the China trip accessible to students, and she was proud to have been able to make it happen.
“This remarkable study tour not only deepened students’ understanding of Chinese language and culture but also strengthened their sense of global awareness, resilience, and aspiration, qualities that will stay with them long after returning home,” Ms Ling said.
The first stop on the tour was the sprawling cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, renowned for its blend of century-old French architecture along the Huangpu River, ultra-modern infrastructure and charming traditional neighbourhoods.
Ms Ling said the group explored Shanghai’s most iconic sites, including the Yu Garden, a 400-year-old Ming-dynasty garden that reflects the artistry of traditional Chinese landscaping, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline.
“Other highlights included a river cruise along the Bund to admire the glittering night scenery of the historic colonial waterfront, and of course, an exciting day at Shanghai Disneyland, an unforgettable experience for everyone,” she said.
The group jumped on a high-speed train and travelled to Beijing to attend immersive language and culture classes facilitated by Beijing Language and Culture University, learning Chinese conversation, traditional Kung Fu, and dragon and lion dancing.
Students climbed the Great Wall of China and visited the Forbidden City, where they had a chance to marvel at the grandeur of ancient Chinese architecture and craftsmanship.
“A particularly special moment was joining in morning exercises and traditional dancing with local residents at the Temple of Heaven Park, where emperors once prayed for good harvests, “said Ms Ling, “This interaction allowed students to witness the connection between ancient traditions and modern daily life.”
After exploring China’s capital, the group headed towards the centre of China to Xi’an, one of China’s oldest cities and the starting point of the fabled Silk Road, which connected China to Europe over 2,000 years ago.
“Students were captivated by the magnificent Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological wonder built to guard the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor,” Ms Ling said.
“They also explored the ancient city wall of Xi’an, one of the best-preserved fortifications in China, and enjoyed shopping at the lively Muslim Quarter markets, rich with local crafts, street food, and cultural diversity.”
This year’s Stawell Secondary College trip to China builds on the success of last year’s China expedition, with the school putting lot of effort into developing its educational links with China.
Ms Ling expressed gratitude to the dedicated staff who made the trip possible, Miss Fox, Corinne, and Joe, and said their care and leadership throughout the journey was outstanding.
“Our gratitude also goes to Mrs McAloon for her unwavering support of our students and families, and to Mr Hart and Mr Greenhalgh for their ongoing encouragement and behind-the-scenes contributions in supporting the trip,” she said, “We also extend our appreciation to all the staff who recognised the value of this experience and helped make it possible.”
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