China–UK Youth People-to-People Exchange Camp Launch Ceremony and Experience-Sharing Session of the “Oxbridge Students’ China Tour” Successfully Held at Our School

On April 14, the launch ceremony and experience-sharing session of the China–UK Youth People-to-People Exchange Camp — “Oxbridge Students’ China Tour”, organized by the Center for International People-to-People Exchange under the Ministry of Education, was successfully held at our school. Eight doctoral candidates from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge visited the campus of The High School Affiliated to Beijing Normal University, where they engaged in in-depth exchanges with Chinese and British experts and scholars in education, representatives from educational administrative departments across China,  frontline principals and teachers, and our students, sharing insights and engaging in lively discussions.

The Oxbridge scholars arrived early on campus and visited the Xingtan Art Gallery, Sanwei Bookstore, and Qian Xuesen Memorial Hall, expressing deep admiration for the school’s rich history and educational legacy. They later toured the Science and Innovation Laboratory and Smart Greenhouse, where they were fascinated by advanced facilities such as 3D printers and laser cutters, as well as by specialized courses including smart home design and bridge engineering, and the research achievements of the Jin Peng Science and Technology Team. They unanimously remarked that the visit gave them a deeper understanding and appreciation of the school’s educational facilities, curriculum innovation, and the well-rounded development of its students. Ms. Xiaolin Hu, a young faculty member and a Cambridge alumna from our school, also joined in hosting the delegation.

At 1:30 p.m., the launch ceremony officially commenced with the graceful opening performance “Dancing in Splendor” by the Jin Fan Dance Troupe of our school. Distinguished guests included Mr. Yu Changxue, Director of the Center for International People-to-People Exchange of the Ministry of Education; Ms. Wang Liping, Principal of our school; Ms. Vicky Henry, Counsellor of the British Embassy in China; and the Honorary Chairman of the British Association for Educational Technology. Mr. George Pippas, the 811th Mayor of Cambridge, joined the event virtually. Their sincere and inspiring speeches marked a warm opening to this grand occasion.

In his speech, Director Yu Changxue stated, “The friendship between nations lies in the closeness of their people, and such closeness arises from the connection of their hearts.” He emphasized that the Center is committed to building extensive exchange platforms to promote meaningful interaction and cooperation among the youth of both countries. This reciprocal exchange, he noted, would bridge the distance between China and the UK, deepen mutual understanding, and strengthen people-to-people friendship. He expressed the hope that young people from both countries would appreciate the beauty of diverse cultures, broaden their horizons, gain new insights, and jointly contribute to the enduring friendship between China and the UK.

Principal Wang Liping warmly welcomed the Oxbridge students, noting that as a century-old prestigious institution in China, our school has long prioritized international educational exchange. She highlighted the school’s successful partnerships with schools in multiple countries and its achievements in Sino-foreign cooperative education and international programs. She expressed hope that this exchange would help Chinese students broaden their academic perspectives, while allowing Oxbridge students to gain a deeper understanding of China’s basic education and its vibrant development. She encouraged all participants to grow through mutual learning and to contribute together to building a community with a shared future for humankind.

Counsellor Vicky Henry remarked that the exchange camp effectively combines “going global” and “bringing in,” building an inclusive two-way bridge for communication that fosters mutual understanding and provides more opportunities for youth development and collaboration. She expressed the hope for deeper cooperation in education and training, embracing digital innovation, and promoting stronger cultural ties between the two countries.

Mr. George Pippas, Chairman of the British Association for Educational Technology, emphasized that education serves as a vital bridge connecting nations, cultures, and ideas — and that cross-cultural communication skills are more essential than ever. He noted that the event gave Oxbridge students an invaluable opportunity to experience China’s historical heritage, social progress, and cultural charm, and he encouraged Chinese students to cherish the same opportunity to exchange ideas and build lasting friendships with their British peers.

At the close of the ceremony, representatives of teachers and students from Beijing High School, Beijing International Studies University Affiliated Middle School, Beijing No. 80 High School, and the University of Cambridge took the stage to share their reflections and memorable moments from the China–UK youth exchange.

Following the ceremony, the eight outstanding students from Oxford and Cambridge participated in a vibrant sharing session with students from our school’s AP Program. Representatives from both universities introduced their academic backgrounds and research interests, vividly portraying campus life and the scholarly atmosphere at the two world-renowned institutions. Drawing on personal experience, they shared effective study strategies, growth reflections, and social service experiences, which captivated the audience. During the interactive session, our students enthusiastically posed questions and shared their thoughts, engaging in lively discussions on topics such as academic choices, university applications, studying abroad, and civic engagement.

After the group discussion, the Oxbridge students divided into smaller groups based on their academic fields for more focused exchanges. They provided detailed answers to students’ questions about popular disciplines such as biochemistry, environmental science, and artificial intelligence, helping them gain a clearer understanding of course structures, research directions, and career prospects.

This event not only broadened the international horizons of students from both countries but also provided valuable guidance for their future academic and personal development.

Educational exchange is not only about the transmission of knowledge — it is also a dialogue between civilizations and a meeting of minds. The China–UK Youth People-to-People Exchange Camp — “Oxbridge Students’ China Tour” was more than an academic encounter; it was an inspiring journey of mutual learning, cultural appreciation, and global competence.