Mandarin Speaking Competition

Having previously been successful in the regional heats before Christmas, pupils from CH took part in the final of the National British Council Mandarin Speaking Competition on 5 February.

285 students from 82 schools completed in the heats, and 114 students from 42 schools competed in the final.

Eddie (GE/Year 11) took part in the Intermediate Plus individual competition and came second in a very competitive field. A fantastic achievement for Eddie who has only been learning Mandarin for just over three years and not only gave his prepared speech on Chinese Tea Culture but also had to field questions in Mandarin about a range of topics.

All schools with representatives that made the final were presented with a trophy from the British Council. Photo shows pupils with their trophy and Eddie with his second place certificate.

Students who participated in the final group performance are Kinda (UF/Year 10) and Evie, Francesca, Corinne and Charlene (LE/Year 9).

The Mandarin Speaking Competition is a great, fun opportunity for students to practise and improve their Mandarin Chinese language skills. Taking part in the competition increases students’ motivation for learning the language, develops vocabulary and improves pronunciation, raises confidence for oral examinations, encourages students to interact with their classmates and inspires students to discover more about Chinese culture.