Last updated 15:40, Wednesday, 12 November 2008

PUPILS at Kells Infants School have been treated to a whole week of Chinese-based activities as part of a cross cultural programme.

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STEPPING OUT: Fen Fen Huang visited Kells Infants School, Whitehaven, recently, as part of the schools Chinese week. The pupils have been learning calligraphy, making dragon mask hats, preparing Chinese food and learning Chinese dance. Here pupils show the dancing skills that Fen Fen taught them.

Throughout the week, the pupils have completed classwork based around the theme. In their art class, pupils have been making Chinese lanterns and other decorations to put up around the school.

Students have also been learning about the culture of China, though performances from a theatre group. They have also been able to learn a number of Chinese dances, which have been taught by tutor, Fen Huang.

Chef John Crouch has given cookery demonstrations to the pupils showing them how to prepare traditional Chinese dishes.

Head teacher Margaret Kershaw said: “As part of our cultural programme we are trying to look at least two cultures during the year.

“Last year we looked at Africa and India. This time we are looking at the culture of China through, art, dance, writing, and cooking.

“The children have really enjoyed the work we have been doing with them because it gives them an insight into other cultures and ways of life.”

As the school is part of the Excellence in Clusters initiative in Cumbria, they have received funding to hold the different activities and events. Staff thanked cultural co-ordinator, Karen Thompson, for helping to organise the activities.