“There is a Chinese proverb: We help each other in the same boat and move forward hand in hand。Cooperation will let us usher in new development together. 中国有句谚语：同舟共济，携手前进 合作将让我们共同迎来新发展” So said Principal Xiaohong Chen, Principal of Chengdu Yangma Middle School, as he “ushered in a day worth celebrating”.

This week saw the Fyling Hall School and Chengdu Yangma Middle School take part in a signing ceremony, formalising their “friendly cooperation”. Initiated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, the overall aim is to promote cultural awareness and understanding between the two countries. Each school will lead a dedicated student sessions showcasing their respective culture. In doing so, staff also have the opportunity to exchange ideas and develop professionally. In time, this agreement could lead to teacher and student exchange visits. It is an exciting opportunity for both parties!

Principal Chen closed the signing ceremony with “On this occasion, on behalf of all teachers and students, I would like to extend my warm congratulations to the successful signing of the cooperation and exchange of sister schools! 值此，我谨代表全体师生对成为姊妹校合作交流的签约成功表示热烈的祝贺!”

Fyling Hall’s Headmaster, Mr Allen added, “We have a long history at Fyling Hall of hosting Chinese students and very much look forward to learning more about your culture and way of teaching and learning. . . . I would like to express again my sincere thanks to the Chinese Ministry of Education for this opportunity.  I would also like to thank Mrs Fan of Studylinks in making this collaboration a reality. And finally, we thank Changdu Yangma Middle School for your partnership.  It is a privilege to take part in today’s event. I assure you of Fyling Hall’s commitment to our collaboration, and our desire to promote cultural awareness and understanding between us.”

We know that both parties, Fyling Hall and Chengdu Yangma Middle School, look forward to fulfilling the Chinese proverb: We help each other in the same boat and move forward hand in hand.