Early November saw the annual Zhi Xing Week at Pao School. As part of the unique learning experience at YK Pao School, students are provided with the opportunity to take part in our week-long Zhi Xing Programme. This is a week of learning and education outside the classroom where students engage in fun and challenging opportunities which complement and run alongside the formal curriculum, enhancing and building on the lessons learnt in the classroom. As they travel around China and the world, students get a chance to experience new cultures, broaden their horizons, while accomplishing Pao’s school’s mission.
Developing the whole person
Our students will develop intellectual, social and emotional skills, strong character and positive attitudes through a diverse range of learning environments and activities.
Passing on traditions of Chinese culture
Our students will gain a deep understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture, including literature, history, philosophy, and art.
Fostering an international perspective
Our students will develop both intercultural knowledge and skills to address issues and succeed on a global stage.
During the previous programmes, students from Songjiang traveled far and wide, visiting places such as Beijing, Fujian, Sichuan, Yunnan, Shaanxi, Xinjiang, Henan, Guizhou, Anhui, Guangxi, Hong Kong and New Zealand. This year, Pao students set out again. They cycled around the Tiger Cliff in Dali, learned Chinese history in Zunyi, and volunteered in Jiangyong county of Hunan.
This is my first time going on a Zhi Xing trip and also the first time to visit Yangshuo. I can still remember my anxiety upon leaving, but when the trip was about to end, it was hard for us to say goodbye. I learned so much beyond the classroom, in cave adventure and outdoor rock climbing. Moreover, we volunteered to teach the local kids English, experienced the life of Yao minority and learned about the traditional Nv Shu (women’s script) culture. I also enjoyed lively discussions with our teachers during the trip. The trip allows me to see different cultures which otherwise I won’t have a chance to experience. The azure blue sky, the crystal river together with the amazing scenery will be remembered.”
——Tiffany
Forster physical, academic, empathetic and personal growth
Provide opportunities to develop grit and application of their prior knowledge in unfamiliar situations
Reinforce self esteem and provide a sense of achievement
Offer opportunities to engage in service learning
Cultivate respect for Chinese traditions and local communities
Allow for positive interactions among fellow students and staff
After the Zhi Xing Week, students shared posters on their experiences with their classmates, teachers and parents. The reflections from the students helped the student families to better understand students’ learning.
Zhi Xing Programme Poster Exhibition
Left: Silver Award, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Hong Kong Trip
Right: Xinjiang Trip
Yangshuo, Guilin Trip
Martin Jone, Director of Co-Curricular Actitivies, commented,
“Zhi Xing offers students a chance to step out of their comfort zone and make life-long memories. The programme gives students opportunities to immerse themselves in culture, participate in difficult physical challenges, gain service experience and make connections with different people. The Co-Curricular department endeavours to give all students the chance to try different activities and to develop a passion for something that they will continue to enjoy long after they have left school.”
Starting from primary school and all the way through high school, character education is a key part of Pao School. The Zhi Xing Programme of high school provides students with an experiential learning experience, and a chance to dive into Chinese culture and traditions. Completion of the Zhi Xing Week is also a graduation requirement for Pao School’s Years 9 – 12.
