The Malvern Mingle Programme has been running steadily since its inception in 2021. What began as a dual exchange between the UK and Chengdu has gradually expanded to include Hong Kong. This year marks a significant milestone when the programme brings together four Malvern campuses in the UK, Hong Kong, Chengdu, and Tokyo for the first time, forging a richer and more diverse international education network.

A Unified Front: A New Paradigm of Educational Connectivity

This academic year’s exchange programme runs from 25 May to 1 June, engaging Year 7 pupils across the participating campuses (Chengdu, Hong Kong and Tokyo). On 25 May, 21 pupils and 2 teachers from Malvern College Tokyo arrived in Chengdu and on the same day, 19 pupils from Malvern College Chengdu, accompanied by 2 teachers, travelled to Hong Kong.

MCT Pupils Explore Chengdu

Immersed in Classrooms and Sichuan Culture

Upon arrival in Chengdu, pupils and teachers from Tokyo quickly integrated into the Foundation Year 1 academic programme, taking part in Mathematics, English, Mandarin, and CCA (Co-Curricular Activities) sessions. In maths lessons, Japanese and Chinese pupils teamed up to solve challenging problems, sparking vibrant intellectual discussions. In Mandarin classes, Tokyo pupils engaged in conversational practice, experiencing the nuances of the language first-hand. During CCA sessions, activities such as baseball, art, knitting, and chess served as bridges between cultures, sparking shared enthusiasm and friendship. During the Senior School’s weekly assembly, Tokyo pupils were delighted to receive MCC’s beloved panda mascots — symbolizing the bond between campuses.

Beyond the classroom, the Tokyo delegation immersed themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Sichuan. They strolled through Wuhou Temple and Jinli Ancient Street, absorbing the city’s historic legacy; visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to learn about conservation efforts and scientific research achievements; hand-crafted flower-embedded paper at a traditional workshop, gaining insight into artisan craftsmanship; learned to cook classic Sichuan dishes at the Sichuan Cuisine Museum; and marvelled at the grandeur of the Leshan Giant Buddha — a millennium-old marvel carved into stone.

MCC Pupils in Hong Kong

An Immersive Experience in International Education

Ms Michelle Nardone, Deputy Head of Malvern College Hong Kong, together with Ms Katrina Englart, Assistant Head of Seniors and IB MYP Coordinator, extended a warm welcome to the visiting pupils and teachers from Malvern College Chengdu. With this heartfelt reception, the MCC pupils embarked on an enriching and immersive learning journey. They joined Year 7 lessons conducted entirely in English, participating in subjects such as Design, Science, Mathematics, and English, gaining a deep and practical understanding of international teaching methodologies.

During their free time, pupils from both campuses bonded on the sports field, where basketball, football, and badminton became their shared language. Through teamwork and friendly competition, the spirit of sport quickly fostered newfound friendships.

Chengdu pupils and teachers also visited the Chinese University of Hong Kong, staying in university accommodation to soak in the atmosphere of a world-class academic institution. Their itinerary included a stroll along the Avenue of Stars overlooking the magnificent Victoria Harbour, a visit to K11 MUSEA to experience the fusion of art and commerce, and finally, a magical conclusion: a celebratory day at Hong Kong Disneyland brought the journey to a joyful close.

Educational Connectivity

Building a Truly Global Perspective