Chinese lessons have the future in mind

SADDLEWORTH School has been named as a “Confucius classroom” in honour of the Chinese philosopher.

It has become part of a network of 34 such schools across England which teach Mandarin language and Chinese culture.

The network has been set up by Specialist Schools and Academies Trust’s (SSAT) Confucius Institute.

Chief executive Elizabeth Reid explained: “The institute works closely with Hanban and Peking University to support schools as they grow their Chinese provision.

“It is through this international collaboration that schools in our Chinese networks are able to develop effective teaching and learning resources and provide students with knowledge that will prepare them for success in the global economy.”

Saddleworth School is a specialist language college and has offered Mandarin for several years.

Confucius Institutes provide Chinese language and cultural teaching resources and services worldwide.

Ms Reid added: “The teaching of Mandarin Chinese is increasingly important for the lives and careers of young people in this country.

“During the economic problems of the last two years, China’s role in the global economy has strengthened while other economies, including our own, have faltered.

“This has underlined the necessity for young people to gain an understanding of China and its language.

“Many will be seeking jobs in the future for which this knowledge is essential.”