It’s all Chinese at Alkira

Brody learns lion dancing. 126856 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

By BRIDGET COOK

THERE was lion dancing, dumpling making and martial arts as Alkira Secondary College students got to experience Chinese culture last week.
The school held its annual Chinese Cultural Day on Tuesday 9 September for the year-seven students as part of their Chinese language studies.
Students were immersed in Chinese culture for a full day of traditional activities and entertainment.
The day was opened with an address from college assistant principal John Shaw, two of Victorian Young Leaders to China Program participants, guest speaker David O’Loughlin who started studying Chinese language as a teenager and an interactive martial art demonstration.
Throughout the day students then got to partake in a range of activities including lion dancing, dumpling making and tasting, Chinese play and fan dance.
Chinese teacher Wei-Yi Wang said it was a fantastic opportunity for students to experience some Chinese cultural traditions and learn about diversity.
“The students enjoyed the opportunity to be exposed to some traditional customs and they learnt to appreciate some cultural food and art,” she said.
“The students gained knowledge of Chinese language and culture in a fun and interactive learning way.
“They were highly motivated and showed much enthusiasm and energy throughout the day.”