Macclesfield College welcomes Chinese visitors

A delegation of 24 Sixth Form leaders of further education institutions from China recently visited Macclesfield College to learn about the UK educational system and see it in action.

The group of professionals, from vocational colleges across China, toured the facilities, had talks with tutors, dined in the College’s Silk Room restaurant managed by learners as well as watched a Shakespeare’s drama performance prepared by performing arts students.

The visit to the College was part of a stay, organised through Suman Education, a joint venture between the Jiangsu Education Services for International Exchange (jesie) of Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education and Shizhen Scholar’s International, UK.

Rachel Kay, chief executive and principal at Macclesfield College, said: “It was great to welcome international college leaders to Cheshire and our College. We continuously strive to build new partnerships and develop links at local, national and global level, be it with businesses or education providers to strengthen our curriculum and provide intercultural experience to students and tutors.

“The visit gave our students and staff great insight into the Chinese educational system and culture. It was also interesting to find out that despite differences, our syllabus aligned in certain areas such as engineering which also received amazing feedback from the visitors.”

Zhu Yonglin, vocational leader at Jiangyin Secondary Vocational School of Jiangsu Province, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed visiting Macclesfield College and meeting both students and teachers and seeing the opportunities the College has to offer. The performing arts and catering students were fantastic. Thank you to Macclesfield College for hosting an informative and rewarding day.”