On December 7th, Officials from the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education and Administration and representatives from the Jiangsu Education Services for International Education (JESIE), joined together to visit and provide assistance to the people of Siyang County.  Siyang is famous for its poplar trees.  The county falls under the administration of Suquian, in the Jiangsu province, and it borders the prefecture-level city of Huai'an to the southeast.

For a number of years both parties have shown their support for the children of Siyang and this year was no different.  Children from across the County were selected to meet at the Secondary School of Linhe Town and to receive donations from Jiangsu Officials.  The children although shy were very grateful to receive this support.

James Thompson and Christine Canning two teachers from JESIE, were later invited to meet with some of the School’s best English students in the boardroom.  Initially, the students were a little quiet, but it didn’t take too long before conversation opened up about a range of topics, with students becoming more confident to show-off their English prowess.  

James and Christine later delivered English sessions to two of the School’s Junior 2 classes.  Numerous teachers and some local government officials stayed to observe and wrote copious notes.  The classes were highly interactive with students keen to participate.  After the classes it was a time for photos, some autographs and further conversations with students forming groups and firing questions at rapid speed.  The smiles on their faces said it all!    

The School’s hospitality was second to none.  A hearty lunch was provided for all and prior to departure all representatives were warmly welcomed back.  Gifts were provided as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation and the bonds between Jiangsu and the County of Siyang were further secured.