On Friday 9th February we enjoyed a day devoted to celebrating the Chinese New Year – the Year of the Dragon.
We found out about the monster Nian, and how he terrorised villagers every New Year until people discovered that he didn’t like the colour red, loud noises or bright lights. These things are still used in Chinese communities to frighten the monster away in the form of red lanterns, firecrackers and fireworks.
Students and staff discovered what animals the Chinese associate with their birth years. Our birth years included goats, dogs, tigers, horses and pigs!
Students looked at how Chinese families all over the world celebrate New Year. We compared activities which are part of the Chinese culture to our own New Year festivities, and found out that they are very similar – staying up late, seeing friends and family and eating lots!
Perhaps most importantly, huge thanks to our Head Cook, Nick for providing us with a Chinese feast. We enjoyed noodles, sweet and sour sauce, prawn crackers and spring rolls.
“I enjoyed the special Chinese menu for Chinese New Year. Some of the teachers wore red because it is a special colour which scares away monsters.” Year 7 student
“The food was amazing, especially the spring rolls” Year 11 student
“I found out I was born in the year of the rat, so I am apparently quick-witted, smart, charming, and persuasive” Year 10 student
“My favourite food is Chinese. It was interesting to find out why they have dragon dancing.” Year 9 student
“I found out that monsters don’t like noise or red.” Year 7 student
“It was fun learning about the Chinese culture and their traditions, and I enjoyed the Chinese food very much, especially the prawn crackers.” Year 11 student
