The Way of Chinese Curriculum: Inspiring Minds and Nurturing Expression at Harrow Beijing

At Harrow Beijing, we are committed to an inquiry-driven approach to teaching. Education is not about passive instruction, but about sparking curiosity. A great teacher inspires rather than imposes, guides without control, and leads students toward independent thinking rather than simply giving them the answer.

Guided by this philosophy, our Chinese Curriculum programme continues to thrive—empowering students to embark on an enriching journey of language exploration.

Expanding Expression, Deepening Thinking
Whole-School Chinese Curriculum in Action

At Lower School, our Chinese curriculum is designed to develop students’ language skills, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. Through the “Great Wall Reading Programme” and inquiry-based learning projects, students strengthen their literacy while experiencing the depth and warmth of language through hands-on activities and cultural immersion.

In Upper school, students go further—developing higher-order thinking through expression. Year 6 students explored China’s Four Great Classical Novels, presenting creative posters inspired by characters. Year 7 delved into patriotic poetry, compiling personal anthologies that reflect both literary insight and design flair. Year 8 observed language in daily life during the spring break, examining public texts such as signs and poetic couplets through a cultural lens. Year 9 engaged in journalism, crafting news articles and experimenting with layout and design. In Year 10, students reimagined classical texts through AI-generated artwork, audio poetry recordings, and short video interpretations—expanding how language can be expressed and understood across platforms.

From academic learning to real-world application, Harrow Beijing is committed to providing students with authentic and meaningful platforms for expression—empowering language to serve as a bridge between thought and the world. By participating in high-level competitions, students not only refine their language skills through practical experience, but also demonstrate independent thinking and cultural confidence through debate and writing.

For example, this year 22 students took part in the Zongheng Cup International Schools Mandarin Debate Competition, achieving impressive results. Nine students were named “Best Speaker,” and one team advanced to the national semi-finals. In addition, several students were recognised for their strong performance in the Huasheng Cup Chinese Writing and Debate Competition. These achievements reflect not only the students’ growing language proficiency, but also the Mandarin curriculum’s success in cultivating critical thinking, effective communication, and a strong sense of cultural identity.

Joyful Learning × Growing Confidence
Building a Strong Foundation Through Fun and Engagement

Since its launch, Harrow Beijing’s Non-Native Mandarin programme has grown into a well-structured and highly effective learning pathway. Grounded in the principles of immersion and cultural connection, it emphasises learning through joy and discovery. We believe that interest is the best teacher—and joy is the deepest memory.

In the Lower School, non-native learners build foundational skills through playful, hands-on activities such as Chinese character card games, role-playing, and pinyin relay challenges. As students progress, they explore language through themed projects.

In Year 2, students created their own illustrated Chinese character compendiums. Year 3 students produced “Scenic Spot Recommendation” brochures, applying vocabulary in context. Year 4 students wrote original fairy tales and experienced the traditional papermaking process. Year 5 students crafted poetry collections and storybooks to express their thoughts and emotions in Chinese—developing a distinctive voice through language.

Notably, our non-native students achieved a 100% pass rate in this year’s Youth Chinese Test – a testament to their persistence and the thoughtful, student-centred guidance of our teaching team.

Mandarin on Stage
The Magic of The Little Tadpoles Look for Their Mother

One of the highlights of the non-native programme this year was the annual showcase: a charming adaptation of the Chinese folktale The Little Tadpoles Look for Their Mother. Students from Years 2-5 brought the story to life entirely in Mandarin, incorporating rhymes, tongue twisters, classic poems, and songs into the performance. Their expressive delivery and heartfelt storytelling captivated both teachers and families.

From Tomas G.’s Parent
We were deeply honoured to witness our child’s Mandarin performance once again. His transformation – from barely speaking the language to confidently performing on stage—has exceeded all expectations. Huge thanks to Ms. Wang and the entire Mandarin teaching team for nurturing his love for the language.

From Liam M.’s Parent
My family was overjoyed watching our child speak, sing, and recite in Chinese on stage. Just a year ago, he couldn’t say a word of Mandarin. Now he’s sharing emotions through performance. The progress is remarkable.

From Ms. Susan W.
This performance was more than a language milestone—it was a powerful example of holistic education in action. The students gained confidence, perseverance, and cultural insight. They told stories, sang rhymes, and recited poems—all in Chinese—demonstrating both language acquisition and authentic self-expression.

The stage became a natural extension of the classroom, where students practiced Mandarin in a vivid, meaningful context. The Little Tadpoles Look for Their Mother was more than a play – it marked a journey from daring to speak to learning to perform, and finally owning the language with confidence.

Whether mastering characters or telling stories, performing fables or debating ideas, Mandarin at Harrow Beijing is about more than just acquiring a language. It is about using language to understand the world, to express oneself, and to connect with others.

Looking ahead, Harrow Beijing will remain grounded in the belief that a great teacher enlightens without imposing—leading without dragging, encouraging without suppressing, and opening the way without dictating. With this spirit, we will continue to explore the full potential of Mandarin education and help every student find their voice through the beauty of the language.