On 1 February 2025, the Orpington Chinese Language School held a grand celebration for its 10th anniversary and the 2025 Year of the Snake Spring Festival Gala at the City of London School for Boys in central London. The event was attended by over five hundred guests from the political, business, and cultural education sectors of both China and the UK, alongside representatives from the school’s faculty, students, and parents.
10th Anniversary and 2025 Year of the Snake Spring Festival Gala Celebration Scene
The celebration transformed the elegant hall of the City of London School for Boys into a festive space, adorned with red Chinese lanterns, couplets, and the character “福” (Fu), creating a joyful and harmonious atmosphere. This display highlighted the unique charm of Chinese culture and showcased the accomplishments and growth of the Orpington Chinese School over the past decade.
Guests attending the Celebration
The day’s program not only reviewed the school’s achievements over the last ten years but also served as an important gathering that united the Chinese community, marking a significant moment for cultural and educational exchange between China and the UK.
Speech from Founder of Orpington Chinese Language School
The celebration commenced with a speech by Chen Zhizhi, the founder of the Orpington Chinese Language School. She reflected on the school’s journey and achievements over the past decade, emphasizing that these ten years represent just a new starting point. She reaffirmed the school’s commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for children, driven by love and persistence, while remaining true to their original mission as they move forward with determination. She also expressed her gratitude to all the attendees, including foreign and Chinese guests, school principals, teachers, students, parents, and supporting organizations for their encouragement, support, and hard work.
Speech from Bromley Cllr Kim Botting
To commemorate the 10th anniversary, Hongmei Liu, a counselor from the Chinese Embassy in the UK, sent a congratulatory letter, and UK Member of Parliament Gareth Bacon contributed a congratulatory video. Guests included former Bromley Mayor Cllr Kim Botting and Cllr Mike Botting, Kingston Mayor Liz Green, Kingston Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Park, Croydon Cllr Dr Manju Shahul-Hammed, Lijuan Yan, Principal of Waltham St Lawrence School, along with various dignitaries and community leaders.
Speech from Headteacher of Waltham St Lawrence School
After the speeches, the audience was treated to an impressive series of performances. A grand gala show organized by the students and teachers from various branches of the Orpington Chinese Language School entertained the attendees.
Sichuang Opera Performance by Zehao Yang
Dance – Let’s Celebrate the New Year
Orchestra – Joy of Spring
Parents’ Performance – To Time
Teachers’ Performance – New Year Greeting Dance
Recital – Enlightenment of Rhythm
Choir – China in the Light
Dance – The Courage Song
Recital – I love Mandarin
In addition to the captivating performances, the celebration featured special activities such as a lucky draw and a cake-cutting ceremony. A highlight of the event was the performance of “Unforgettable Tonight” by singer Beibei Wang, which brought the audience to a high point of excitement.
Prize Draw
Cake Cutting Ceremony
Performance by Soprano Beibei Wang – Unforgettable Night
After the gala, guests and students participated in engaging new year fair activities.
Children Enjoying Chinese New Year Fair Activities
Whether it was crafting beautiful and lifelike silk flowers, enjoying fun calligraphy of the character “福,” or making delightful lanterns and dumplings, children, parents, and friends from both China and the UK experienced the beauty of Chinese culture. They gained a deeper appreciation of the customs and traditions associated with the Chinese New Year, leaving them eager for the exciting next chapter in the Orpington Chinese School’s journey over the coming decade.
