Celebrating Lunar New Year

Last week we hosted a week full of events to celebrate Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Dragon.

"We started with an assembly on Monday morning. The assembly kicked off with a captivating performance that perfectly captured the essence of Chinese culture. Mrs. Liu played the pipa, a classical Chinese instrument, accompanied by Head Girl Poorna on the piano. The harmonious blend of melodies created an enchanting ambiance, transporting everyone to the heart of China.

Mrs. Fang explored the symbolism of the Year of the Dragon, highlighting the important aspects of Lunar New Year such as family reunion. Mrs. McCarter shared heartfelt memories of her Vietnamese heritage, recounting touching moments spent with her family during past Lunar New Year celebrations. Her poignant storytelling resonated with many, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural traditions and cherishing family bonds. Charlotte and Natalie from Year 12 shared their experiences of celebrating Lunar New Year in Hong Kong. Their descriptions painted a vivid picture of the festive atmosphere, filled with dazzling firecrackers, lion dances, and delicious food. Mary and Isabel shared their traditions from South Korea, describing the traditional clothing hanbok, games, and delicacies that define Lunar New Year celebrations in their homeland.

The assembly ended with everybody wishing each other a happy new year in Chinese: 新年快乐. The Lunar New Year assembly was a resounding success, showcasing the richness and diversity of Asian cultures while fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. It served as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing tradition, celebrating diversity, and forging connections within our global community."

- Mrs. Fang

Elsewhere in school, other activities included: making paper dragons and learning calligraphy; writing letters of appreciation to staff members and friends;  student-led assemblies teaching peers about the Lunar New Year; and a celebratory lunch on Friday with thanks to Chartwells, our new caterers. 

新年快乐 !