Have you ever been deeply moved by an idea or felt your blood stirred by a brilliant argument? Do you long to stand at the debater’s podium, conquering the audience with logic and language? The Beijing City International School Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest is precisely that stage, where you can articulate with 礼 (courtesy), enlighten with 情 (empathy), refute with 度 (measure) and debate with 节 (propriety)!

Beijing City International School, in collaboration with the Beijing City International School Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest Organizing Committee, cordially invites students from all schools to participate in the 2026 Beijing City International School Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest – an intellectual feast for critical thinkers!

About the Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest

The Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest is more than just a competition; it’s an outstanding platform designed to ignite critical thinking, facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster connections among participants. Co-hosted by Beijing City International School and the Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest Organizing Committee, its primary goal is to inspire students from various schools to engage in deep reflection on social issues and to encourage intellectual dialogue across schools. We firmly believe that debate is not merely a clash of words but a rigorous exercise for the mind and a testament to personal growth.

This year, the Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest will focus on “Diverse Interpretations and Social Evolution of Gender Issues” as its core theme, aiming to guide the younger generation in addressing contemporary social realities through thoughtful and empathetic discussions.

Categories and Debate Topics

Group A (Senior | Under 19)

Preliminary Round: The popularity of “feminism” labels is more beneficial than detrimental/more detrimental than beneficial to promoting gender equality. （“女性主义”标签的流行，对推动性别平等利大于弊 / 弊大于利）

Semi-finals & Finals: To achieve gender equality, changing social perceptions is more important than improving institutional safeguards/improving institutional safeguards is more important than changing social perceptions. 实现性别平等，改变社会观念比完善制度保障更重要 / 完善制度保障比改变社会观念更重要）

Group B (Junior | Under 14)

Preliminary Round: Do short videos “princess filters” empower female images or represent a new aesthetic discipline?​（短视频“公主特效”（皇冠/柔光）是对女性形象的赋能，还是新的审美规训）

Semi-finals & Finals: Is contemporary women’s pursuit of “external beauty” an assertion of self-will or an internalization of social pressure?（当代女性追求“外表美”，是自我意志的彰显，还是社会压力的内化）

Event Schedule and Location
Date: Apr 25-26, 2026
Location: Beijing City International School Main Campus (北京市朝阳区百子湾南二路 77 号)

Eligibility
Group A: Participants must be under 19 years old by May 9, 2026.
Group B: Participants must be under 14 years old by May 9, 2026.
Team Composition: Each team should consist of four to ten debaters and be accompanied by one to two adult guardians.
School Participation: Multiple teams from the same school are welcome to register. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged!

Registration Fees

Early Bird: RMB 150 per person for registrations before Mar 1, 2026.
Standard: RMB 210 per person for registrations after Mar 1, 2026.
Guardians: Guardians attend free of charge.

Awards

Team Awards
Champion: RMB 1,666 prize money + trophy + medals + certificates
Runner-up: RMB 888 prize money + trophy + medals + certificates
Third Place: Medals + certificates
Individual Awards: Awards for “Best Debater of the Tournament” and “Best Debater of Each Round.”
Participation Certificate: All participants will receive an electronic certificate of participation.

Why Participate in the Speak Up Debate Contest?

The Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest is not just a competition; it’s a unique platform for self-expression, active listening, and the development of critical thinking skills. Here, you will:

• Engage in intellectual sparring with talented debaters from various schools.
• Enhance your logical reasoning and expressive abilities through cross-examination, rebuttal and summation.
• Forge lasting friendships with like-minded individuals and create unforgettable debate experiences.

How to Register

Please scan the QR code below to fill out the registration form. The deadline for registration is Apr 10, 2026.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via email at debate@bcis.cn or reach out to Liu Fengru (Ella) at 2023133090@bcis.cn.

Think ceaselessly, speak articulately. The Speak Up Chinese Debate Contest 2026 looks forward to hearing your voice!

Images: Ella Liu

The John Locke Institute Essay Competition, though only a decade old, has quickly become a highly sought-after academic credential for students worldwide. Last year alone, it received over 30,000 entries.

Students from Beijing, Shanghai, and other Chinese cities have consistently excelled in the competition. In 2023, a student from the Shanghai American School won the top prize, and past winners include students from Beijing New Talent Academy and Beijing Normal University’s Experimental High School.

This year’s competition opens on April 1. Tonight, you’ll have the unique opportunity to hear directly from the founder of the John Locke Institute, Martin Cox, in a special WeChat Channels live stream with Jingkids Founder Toni Ma. Tune in tonight (Monday, March 17) from 7:30 PM to 9 PM. The livestream will be conducted in English.

Whether you have questions about essay strategies or want to learn more about the competition and their global academic camps, this is your chance to get insider insights. Bring your questions and prepare to gain valuable advice on how the John Locke Institute can help you grow—not just as a student, but as a thinker.

Since its launch in 2015, the competition has attracted curious minds from around the world. Essays must be no longer than 2,000 words and can be submitted in seven categories: Philosophy, Politics, Economics, History, Psychology, Theology, and Law. Essays are evaluated by professors from Oxford and Princeton, with prizes awarded in each category. The Grand Prize is given to the best overall essay, and there’s a special prize for participants under 15.

If your child is eager for more intellectual challenges, the John Locke Institute offers global academic camps. This year, they’re introducing an Economics & Finance Summer School in Nanjing from July 1 to 8. Designed for students aged 13 to 18, the camp features lively debates, engaging lectures, and opportunities to connect with like-minded peers from around the world.

Images: John Locke Institute

Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) prides itself in taking learning experiences beyond the classroom, and over the past 20 weeks, 17 teams of 40 DCB students participated in the very first Dulwich Startup Warriors Programme, a real-world entrepreneurship competition similar to that of the television show “Shark Tank.” The students’ goal was to showcase their creative inventions and savvy business plans to convince the judges to invest a hefty RMB 10,000 of seed money in their vision.

The competition culminated in the Bullpen of Champions, where the top 10 teams presented their business ideas and products.

From biodegradable phone cases to AI fact-checkers and sustainable children’s clothing, the diversity of ideas was truly inspiring.

Partnering with Singapore-based EdTech company Ascend Now, the program provided a platform for students to develop their entrepreneurial skills under the guidance of seasoned mentors.

Mr. Stephen Kaye, Senior School Deputy Head, academic, and co-organizer of the Dulwich Startup Warriors Programme, shared how proud he was of how the students have grown throughout the program and that he looks forward to what they can achieve in the future. “The students learned the fundamentals of what it takes to start a business in terms of knowledge, skills, and, most importantly, mindset. Over the six months of the program, our students have developed tenacity, resilience, and creativity in the face of adversity. I hope that as these students grow older, they will be able to use what they have learned to better our school, the local community, and the wider world.”

Ms. Zhen Liu, a former senior executive of Bytedance, a DCB parent, and one of the competition’s “sharks,” shared how impressed she was with the students’ well-structured presentations, which showed their keen understanding of their target markets and the potential impact of their products or services. “The Bullpen event showcased an impressive array of innovative start-up ideas from talented students. As a judge and parent entrepreneur, I was thoroughly impressed by the creativity, passion, and professionalism displayed by the students. Their level of energy, originality, and enthusiasm was truly remarkable. What stood out to me was the strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness in many of the projects. It is highly commendable that the school has successfully instilled a mindset focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the students. It was inspiring to see the next generation of entrepreneurs taking their first steps towards solving problems in the real world.”

Another “shark,” Dr. Karim Alwadi, founder of Yuan Li Sport and a DCB parent for ten years now, shared his pride not only in taking part in the event as a judge but also in experiencing firsthand our young students’ pioneering spirit and entrepreneurial drive. “The real-world business is much more competitive than what the students experience in a school environment. That is why it is so important for the kids to get hands-on experience on real issues you don’t anticipate in a simulated proposal.”

As the competition unfolded, it became evident that entrepreneurship runs deep in the students’ veins. Whether it was founding a pre-loved clothing platform with a sustainable ethos or creating dolls equipped with educational materials on the SDGs, the students’ passion and dedication were palpable.

Year 8 Ella H, co-founder of pre-loved clothing platform Kiddieloop, the winning business idea, shared how her team had decided to create a service with sustainability and community in mind. “We had a list of problems we wanted to solve while making a sustainable impact. We decided on Kiddieloop, where we would also create a community where everyone shares our values.”

Kiddieloop addresses the rapid growth of children’s clothing with an eco-conscious twist. They enable parents to sell or donate gently used children’s clothing, allowing others to purchase vetted items. Sellers earn a percentage, and charitable donations are also made from proceeds.

Dollision founder Year 7 Eva C shared how winning second place is one of the first steps in her dreams of becoming the first female CEO of a doll empire, where the dolls are uniquely equipped with learning materials on the 17 SDGs. “Not only can our dolls educate kids about SDG goals using accessible and trendy content, but as a girl, I can understand and relate with our target audience too!” But she also added how the event made her see that, whether she won or not, the joy she had while working on this passion project of hers is something that doesn’t need a reward.

Footflex revolutionises footwear by offering detachable soles, eliminating the need to carry multiple pairs of shoes. Their easy-to-use mechanism provides convenience for travellers and anyone looking to simplify their shoe collection. Say hello to extra space in your bag!

Sports enthusiast team Footflex, who placed third, shared how their product was inspired by how being passionate about different sports can make purchasing shoes not only unaffordable but unsustainable as well. They aim to create interchangeable soles that not only allow sportspeople to affordably continue their passion for sports but also create a better alternative for the planet. “With the seed funding, we [can]work out a complete set of prototypes to make our soles real products.”

Mr. Kaye also shared his observation of how nearly all the business ideas were related to social entrepreneurship, embodying DCB’s commitment to global citizenship. “This remarkable journey reveals our students’ commitment to active citizenship, demonstrating that every innovative idea we pursue is a stepping stone towards making a meaningful impact in the world.”

This program allowed students to showcase their innovative ideas while reinforcing the importance of collaboration, resilience, and sustainability, where ingenuity meets impact, and where every idea has the potential to make a difference. As Mr. Anthony Coles, Head of College, pointed out, “We should never underestimate our students. They are highly capable, adaptable, and creative. It’s no wonder they have excelled in this challenge to ideate and execute a business plan. Thank you to Mr. Stephen Kaye for supporting the teams throughout this long and sophisticated process.” The event also garnered support from extended family members, underscoring the importance of instilling entrepreneurial values from a young age.

Congratulations once again to all the participants, teachers, and community members who contributed to the success of the Dulwich Startup Warriors Programme.

Images: Dulwich College Beijing

Established in 2017 by two seniors at Beijing City International School (BCIS), Avenir is a business competition designed to encourage high school and middle school students worldwide to develop pioneering business plans. The competition was created to enhance the participants’ skills in entrepreneurship, social enterprise thinking, positive networking, and receiving critical feedback from business professionals, experts, and other global student teams. The aim of the competition is for students to work together for the good of all and for the sustainable development of the world.

Registration for the 2023 Avenir Business Competition is underway.

Important dates to remember:
The competition will be held at BCIS Main Campus on Apr 22-23.

Cost:
RMB 260 for early bird registration
RMB 360 for regular registration

Rules:
Each Avenir submission and presentation represents an original work that has been created by a team of two to four students from Grades 8 to 12. There is no limit to the number of teams that can enter the competition from the same school.

Registration is open now for any teams that wish to register for Avenir 2023, and confirmation of your participation in the competition will be sent after review of your Registration Survey, which can be filled out via the link below:

This year’s Avenir competition is also currently looking for sponsors, speakers, mentors, and judges. Please email Avenir at avenir@bcis.cn and erica.wang@bcis.cn for more information.

Images: Avenir

KEEP READING: BCIS Hosts Fourth Annual Avenir Business Competition

As we wrap up the Jingkids October Creative Writing Contest: Horror Stories (by the way, take a moment to vote here for the kids’ hard work!), we’re announcing the start of a brand new competition for November – the “Most Memorable Meal” Photo Contest!

We want you to share photographs of a meal you have enjoyed this past year, or will enjoy this month (can you say Thanksgiving?), around the capital city, whether it’s with family or friends. Even your family dinners at home count! Just make sure to write a short blurb (under 100 words) about the experience – what you’re eating, where it’s at, what occasion it is (if it’s a special one), and why it’s so special to you. Entries without a written description will not be considered. If you’re sending in a group photo, be sure you get everyone’s permission first.

Each participant may send in only one entry. Multiple photographs of the same meal experience are not allowed. Photographs will be judged on their creativity and ability to fit the theme.

You must be 18 or below to submit a photograph, but the people in your photograph may be of any age! Please ensure you have the permission of all people in the photograph to use and publish their image on jingkids’ website and blog. Photographs should not be doctored in any criminal way and only minor aesthetic touch-ups are allowed.

Participants can send in their photographs and accompanying caption to webeditor@beijing-kids.com with their details (first and last name, age or grade, and email address / mobile number) from now until Nov 25.

The winner of November’s “Most Memorable Meal” Photo Contest will receive a gift certificate entitling two people to an All-You-Can-Eat Lunch Buffet (worth over RMB700) at the Sweet Spot Cafe in China World Hotel, as well as a studio photography class with one of Beijing’s favorite professional photographers who has shot countless Jingkids magazine covers – Dave Hanssen from Dave’s Studio!

Here’s to making meaningful memories and sharing those moments with us!

KEEP READING: Did You Know About this Family-Friendly Cajun & Creole Restaurant in Beijing?

Images: Pexels

Happy Easter! Want to win some chocolate bunnies?

Scan the QR code below to join the Jingkids Easter Eggstravaganza WeChat group. Then send in your photo or video clips (shorter than 10 seconds) of your kids’ Easter Eggs by midnight tonight (Apr 4).

The selected Easter eggs will be featured in a Jingkids video and if your egg is selected, you can win a delicious chocolate Easter bunny!

KEEP READING: The Best Non-Easter Family Events Mar 31- Apr 6

Images: Jingkids, Pexels

We’re looking for talented young writers to come up with their own Beijing adaptation of classic fairy tales like “Beauty and The Beast,” “Cinderella,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Snow White,” “Goldilocks and The Three Bears,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” etc. Take the story plot from your favorite childhood fairy tale and adapt it to life here in Beijing.

Did the Little Mermaid live under Houhai Lake and fall in love with a visiting tourist? Maybe. Or perhaps Cinderella is fuerdai whose trust fund is under the control of her wicked stepmother.

The best story will be published in the March issue of beijingkids in a beautiful two-page spread along with eternal bragging rights.

To enter:

• Stories must be between 800 – 1200 words.
• Email your story to editor@beijing-kids.com along with your full name and age by 5pm on Feb 28, 2021. Late submissions will not be accepted.

KEEP READING: Starving To Be “Liked” – Social Media and the Teens’ Beauty Perception

Images: Unsplash

It is no secret that when it comes to cutting edge technology, Beijing is the hub for all things innovation and creative. In recent years it has become ground zero for China’s burgeoning Robotics field, also providing a great base for numerous startups in the Robotics field. The key driver in this explosion in the Robotics sector, apart from the Chinese government’s overwhelming support, is the availability of China’s most competitive robotics and tech-based programs, where young engineers – both local and foreign – are given the tools with which to innovate in the ever-expanding sector. But this grooming doesn’t begin at the university level alone. Many international schools in Beijing now incorporate Robotics and Artificial intelligence units into their school curriculums, providing much-needed support and encouragement to young would-be inventors and innovators to flex their muscles in the tech world.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 many would-be robotics conferences and competitions held annually in Beijing didn’t happen this year. But all is not lost. Young robotics enthusiasts and aficionados now have a chance to put their creative skills to the test in this year’s ‘Life After COVID-19: The New Normal with Robotics & AI‘. And with the weather turning chilly, it is now time to head inside, hunker down, and innovate!

Here’s how it works: 

The completion is currently ongoing and runs to November 8, 2020. In order to find out the full list of your deliverables, along with other useful instructions, be sure to visit www.robociti.com.cn/competitions. What are you waiting for? Go register and get to inventing! The future of the world might be resting squarely on your shoulders!

KEEP READING: Save The Date. The Next Roundabout Book Fair & Charity Open Day is Almost Here

Photos: Courtesy of Robociti.inc, Unsplash

As Beijing’s schools continue to exist in a state of educational limbo, parents have turned to edu-taining their kids with all sorts of daily activities at home. One of the best (and most practical) is creating masterpieces together in the kitchen. It’s where kids can explore their creativity, learn more about where their food comes from, and enjoy some hands-on action.

The second challenge in The Hutong Quarantine Cook-Off starts today with a classic Sichuan favorite: Sichuan Dish Fragrant Spicy Pot, malaxiangguo. Click here for the recipe.

Here’s how it works:

1. Cook the dish
2. Take a photo (remember plating and good lighting will help give you an edge)
3. Post your photo on Instagram using the hashtag #QuarantineCookOff #beijingkids #TheHutong #thebeijinger or post it on WeChat and share a screenshot with TheHutong’s official WeChat account: TheHutongBeijing

Every week the winner will be chosen by a panel of The Hutong’s chefs based on creativity, plating, photography and Instagram/WeChat likes. Those winners will then be announced on The Hutong’s WeChat, Facebook, and Instagram accounts.

This week’s spicy favorite lets you get creative with the ingredients. Let’s be honest, is there anything that doesn’t taste good in a malaxiangguo?

Scan the QR code in the poster for details about the competition, and step by step instruction on this week’s recipe. Also, be sure to follow beijingkids (Instagram: @beijingkids, WeChat ID: beijing-kids) and The Hutong (Instagram: @thehutong, Wehcat ID: TheHutongBeijing) on social media.

Need a hand to get the ingredients?

Reach out to The Hutong via WeChat or via mobile at 159 0104 6127 a day in advance to order a package containing all the ingredients you need to cook the recipe.

This week’s winners will be announced on Tuesday, April 7 at 2pm. Worldwide participation is encouraged, however, prizes are limited to mainland China addresses only.

Prizes:

First Place
Cheers-1 bottle of Riesling
Naked Nuts Butter-1 large jar taster kit
Jing-A Brewpub -RMB 200 voucher (Xingfucun location)

Second Place
Cheers-1 bottle of Riesling
Bulk House-Organic Cotton Reusable Mesh Bag Set
The Hutong signature apron

Third Place
Liuba Draws–one desk calendar from Liuba Draws 台式年历
The Hutong Sichuan Recipe cards

beijingkids is a proud media sponsor of The Hutong’s Quarantine Cook-Off

Photos: The Hutong, www.53.com.cn, www.douguo.com