In 2013, The Confucius Institute (CI) launched Confucius Classroom Hubs to develop academic, cultural and social ties between Northern Ireland (NI) and China. The initiative funds the placement of 12 full-time Chinese Tutors in SWC, embedding them in the local community to promote the teaching and learning of Chinese language and culture.
The Institute is led by Ulster University and works in partnership with Zhejiang University and the Education Department in Hubei Province to link newly qualified graduates in China with Confucius Classrooms in NI.
The international work has helped to raise the aspiration of learners from a variety of age groups, nationalities and cultures across the educational network in NI, achieved through the delivery of Mandarin Chinese training to 4,000 learners annually for the last 6 years.
Speaking about the news, Fey Cole, Teaching and Learning Advisor for the SWC Confucius Hub said:
“We are delighted to have received commended status. The benefits of the Confucius Hub are not solely realised within the college. Our team of Chinese tutors work across educational sectors including primary, post-primary and adult learners in part-time evening courses, thus shaping the international mind-set of our local learners, particularly those who may never have the opportunity to travel beyond their region.
“The hub has acted as the catalyst for further internationalisation, supporting the college to create a global presence and widen the horizons of our students and staff through dynamic partnerships and cultural exchange opportunities.”
For further information on the Confucius Classroom Hub, please contact Linda.Beatty@swc.ac.uk or call 028 8225 0109.