Ms. Yanyan Zhu worked in Hove Park School, Britain

Last year, Ms. Zhu, selected by British Council, worked as a language assistant in Hove Park School, a public secondary school in Britain with 1500 studentsand  two campuses.

Besides teaching mandarin, Ms. Zhu also helped students prepare for Chinese tests such as GCSE and A-level. In her classes, she always provided students with rich material concerning Chinese culture and interesting class activities. Ms Zhu was willing to spread Chinese culture on different occasions. For example, she never refused invitations from local schools to give children presentations on Chinese culture. On some important Chinese festivals such as Mid-autumn Day, the DoubleNinth Festival  and spring festival, she volunteered to organize various activities to help local people know more about China.

Ms. Zhu regarded her one-year stay in Britain as a precious opportunity to improve her own language proficiency and teaching ability. Therefore, she frequently observed her colleagues’ classes in Hove Park School; she visited local universities; she read  extensivelyin the local library. She proudly told her colleagues back home that now she's got a better understanding about the British education and teaching. 

Ms Zhu also traveled a lot. Many historical sites in Cambridge, Oxford North Ireland, Scotland, and Wales have left her deep impression. She said by traveling in a country with such a long history, she greatly broadened her horizon.

Despite all the positive feelings, Ms Zhu also admitted that it was a hard year for her, for she not only experienced the culture shock but also missed her family, especially her little son a lot. “But as a whole, it was a meaningful and unforgettable experience! I appreciate it very much” She said.