Even with recent concerns about Beijing’s air quality, the capital remains an ever popular destination for International Schools from across the country.  In addition to Concordia Shanghai heading north for a custom-made Arts and Theatre themed program and UWCSEA traveling from Singapore for a Mandarin language focused program, The Hutong Education also recently welcomed Dulwich College Shanghai, Nanjing International School and WISS Shanghai for our classic ‘Experience Beijing’ program.

Across these programs, students were given the opportunity to lift the lid on Beijing’s lesser known locations and attractions, far away from the madding crowds.  A consistent highlight for students is a visit to The Great Wall – students were treated to sunrise hikes, local village homestays and camping under the stars and shadows of one of the worlds greatest architectural feats. Making the most of the fresh air of the Northern Hills, Dulwich students also participated in a raft building exercise, where the non-compulsory activity saw every able student ‘seek challenge’ and face their fears by crossing the river – albeit with only one team remaining dry!

Back in the bustling streets of the city, those with an interest in Art had their creative appetites well-fed with interactive programs led by artists and curators in the migrant village of Caochangdi and at the popular and historical 798 district, with highlights including a presentation from Robert Burnell – the only foreigner amongst the districts’ original founders in the 1990’s – as well as a chance meeting with the reclusive Ai Weiwei.

Staying true to The Hutong’s roots, those with a penchant for local culture and history were not disappointed. Visits to Confucius Temple, Ditan Park and the Temple of Heaven all included educational activities facilitated by our passionate and knowledgeable staff including photography challenges, Qi Gong, and even arm wrestles with elderly local residents in the exercise park. But no visit to Beijing would be complete without a visit to our very own siheyuan courtyard where students honed their culinary skills, assisted by our experiences chefs;  designed and created their own packs of tea; and of course partook in our eagerly anticipated Hutong Scavenger Hunt, navigating the twists and turns of the surrounding alleyways in teams.

We would like to thank all the inspirational teachers and gifted students of Dulwich College Shanghai, Nanjing International School and WISS Shanghai for being such Good Eggs. We look forward to welcoming them back to the capital next year!