Chinese is a specialist subject within the language curriculum of Harrow International School Shenzhen, however, being in the host country of China; Chinese is considered as a core language. Chinese is taught to all students from Pre-Nursery to Year 11. It is compulsory for students in these year levels to study Chinese language and culture three to four times a week.
From Year 12 in Upper School, Chinese becomes an elective subject; IGCSE First Language pathway is available to native speakers, Second Language is available to intermediate students and Chinese Foreign Language is available to non-native speakers. AS and A-Level Chinese, suited to all language pathways are taught in Year 12 and 13. This Edexcel syllabus focuses on research skills and 21st century thinking skills, including evaluation of social issues and development.
To cater for students from various background and language level; Chinese at Harrow focuses on differentiation and individual progression.
Currently, for Early Years and Key Stage 1 students, students are divided into two groups based on whether or not they have native language background. We aim to continuously monitor student progression as they develop foundation skills in Chinese. In the native stream, local Chinese Yu-Wen textbook is used, we use the Ren-Jiao version in line with local schools. However, we put a different interpretation to the teaching of the syllabus to allow maximum results in the limited specialist subject contact hours.
For Upper School, classes are divided into three groups; Beginner, Intermediate and Native Background. We value the importance of catering for different learning goals and appreciate the fact that learning needs will differ more as a student progress towards senior school. Therefore, we have created clear learning goals for each level.
Chinese New Year celebrations are our main cultural event of the year. Each year, we host a Chinese Cultural Week filled with traditional activities that highlight the essence of Chinese New Year and our rich cultural heritage.
The Chinese Performance will be the centerpiece of our celebrations, bringing the entire school together to honor cultural traditions. This event will showcase our students’ talents through performances in traditional Chinese music, singing, and art, as well as a dragon dance to welcome the New Year with best wishes.
