Over the holidays, 21 Newington boys accompanied by Ms Linda Wang, Ms Linda Gu and Mr Michael Bennett ventured on a Language Tour of China. Visiting Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Xi’an, the boys learnt about the history and traditions behind many world renowned monuments and walked amongst the denizens of one of the world’s most densely populated countries to experience their way of life.

One of the highlights of the trip was the visit to the Great Wall of China. Dale Schlaphoff (10/FL) said, “For me the biggest highlight of the China tour was probably the Great Wall of China. I know this may be a typical response, but it was truly amazing! It was so great to feel so small standing on a landmark that resounded so much history, something that can’t usually be done in Australia as it is a much younger country with only 250 years or so of written history. On the Great Wall, I was seeing something that had been built 2221 years ago.” Alexander Potter (10/ME) agreed, saying that the views from the Wall were awesome.

Many boys also said that while the culture shock and language barrier was a challenge at first, they quickly eased into it. Lewis Waugh (9/PR) said, “My language skills did improve when I was on the tour. I realised when I came back to Australia that in Mandarin class I was able to speak more fluently.” Luke Codevelle (10/ME) agreed, saying he noticed that he became more confident when he found himself asking for directions.

Overall it was a hugely enjoyable and thought-provoking trip. “It was very interesting to observe Chinese culture up close, it was incredible fun, and it can definitely help to expand your knowledge of the language,” said Bradley Parker (9/JN). 

“I would definitely recommend it, because you get to walk around a different country with your friends. It was a great experience,” added Jacob Lawler (10/ME).