Beijing has been my home for the past seven years, and leaving it is daunting. Whenever I think deeply about what I have done here, how much I have grown, and all the unforgettable memories that I, my family, my friends, and my teachers have made here, I always end up crying. Leaving a school that I have been at for my entire primary and (almost) middle school career saddens me even more. Change is happening. And I have to face it no matter what. The funny thing is that I don’t even know which city in China I am even from, which is a very difficult thing to deal with because wherever I go, if people want to simply know a little bit more about me and ask, “你是哪里来的？” (which means “Where do you come from?” or “Where are you from?”), I always end up answering, “成都.” Technically, my household registration is in Chengdu, so it would make sense for me to say Chengdu. However, I have not lived in Chengdu for a long period of time, which also makes me wonder if I really should say that to people. I was born in Suzhou, and so, also technically, I am from Suzhou as well. This may seem irrelevant to talk about as the place that I am leaving from is Beijing, but a conversation I had with a friend from the summer program I participated in this year perhaps answered the question everyone was asking me. He said that because I have been in Beijing for the longest period of time of my life, I am from Beijing to him personally. I told him my entire moving journey from the day I was born – being born in Suzhou, then after 100 days moving to Zhenjiang for four years, then to Wuxi for two years, then to Hefei for two months, and finally moving to Beijing and staying here for the past seven years as I am about to move to Zhuhai to finish my middle and high school. Perhaps, I am a Beijinger now. Whenever I speak Mandarin, some people say that they hear a distinct Beijinger accent. Once, I tried to learn the Chengdu accent from my dad as he is from Chengdu, and he said that when I spoke in a Chengdu accent, it sounded like a Beijinger or someone from the Dongbei (northeastern) region trying to imitate the Chengdu accent. This really made me wonder what my identity truly is.

G4&5 compilation

When I first moved to Beijing, I felt like I was moving to a foreign region – the weather and climate were different, the streets had a completely different vibe compared to the southern cities of China, and the people seemed to be different from the people I had met before. However, now, when I step on the streets of Beijing, I have this weird feeling of belonging but also not belonging. I feel a sense of belonging because I have spent so much time of my life here and even though Beijing may never feel like a “hometown” for me, it definitely shaped who I am today.

G6 www trip

I still remember vividly what the first day of school was like – the yellow school bus pulled into the driveway in front of my compound, and I was astonished that I was actually going to the school that I liked, not even discussing it with my parents. Now here I am, leaving the school that I have been at for seven and a half years. Every single teacher that I have had at Beijing City International School (BCIS) has given me some extent of encouragement and inspiration that allowed me to move forward with my academic and extracurricular life with ease – my Grades 1 and 2 homeroom teachers opening me up to a variety of sustainability projects, allowing me to find my true passion; my Grade 3 homeroom teacher teaching me how to find my own principles and follow instructions; my Grades 4 and 5 teachers leading the way to let me have a smooth transition into middle school, and the countless teachers I have met in my middle school life giving me confidence and pride to let me tackle high school with a stronger heart.

G8 shorts theatre performance

Every teacher that I have met these few days in the hallways were always saying something along these lines: “I heard that you are leaving us… Why?… You can’t!” This makes me realize how much effort and hard work I have put into my entire time here at BCIS and I simply think that without the community’s encouragement and love, I would never have been able to accomplish so much. I conclude my seven years in Beijing by saying, “Whatever way our stories end, I know you’ll have rewritten mine by being my friend.” Images: Margaret Yang

Whenever life doesn’t seem to go as planned, or we encounter a bump in the road, it’s easy to fixate on those problems and let them consume all of our mental energy. However when this happens, we run the risk of losing sight of all those things that are going well, which, more often than not, are the things we take for granted in the first place. Generally speaking, it’s pretty safe to say that no matter how bad things get, most of us have those basic necessities that provide for a comfortable and secure life; health, love, shelter, financial stability, and food. Unfortunately though, there are a lot of people in this world — either clear across it or right in our own backyard — who don’t have basic amenities. Thankfully, students at Beijing’s international schools know not only how to count their blessings, but how to share them as well.

A few took time out of their busy schedules to tell us about the organizations they volunteer with, and what it means to them.

Harrow Beijing: Alenah’s Home

Founded 2004

Students:

Charlie L., 18 Years Old, Year 13, Volunteering for 3 years

Lucy S., 15 Years Old, Year 11, Volunteering for 1 year

Wendy Z., 17 Years Old, Year 12, Volunteering for 2 years

What is Alenah’s Home’s mission?

“Take care of special needs orphans and provide them a safe and loving home, and to provide them with access to specialized medical care and rehabilitation.” – Charlie L.

“Help special needs orphans receive medical care and rehabilitation training in Beijing.” – Lucy S.

“Not only bring them happiness, but also bring them warmth. Let them feel the love from society.” – Wendy Z.

Why did you get involved?

“I love the experience of having fun with the children.” – Charlie L.

“Because I want to help the children there. I am a part of the community and I think I have a responsibility to be involved and help where I can.” – Lucy S.

“To let them feel love from us. They don’t have love and family from their parents, so if we are able to accompany them and give them love and warmth, they don’t feel lonely, and they’ll grow up healthy and happy.” – Wendy Z.

What have you learned from your experience volunteering?

“Be patient. Be positive.” – Charlie L.

“I think I get more ideas about how the world works and I have become a lot more sympathetic. Now, I am keen and know how to help.” – Lucy S.

“Every child should have a happy childhood. No matter whether they have health problems or not, they should not be abandoned, because all people are equal.” – Wendy Z.

Why do you think it’s important to volunteer or give back to the community?

“As I live in a lovely family, I want to give this kind of feeling to people who have less opportunity to be loved.” – Charlie L.

“Volunteering strengthens self-confidence, as I am doing good things to people and the community. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and pride because I can feel my value and the children show that they need and value me.” – Lucy S.

“Volunteers are lucky as they have the time and ability to help people who need help. People who need help are also part of society, so helping them is making contributions to society.” – Wendy Z.

What does volunteering and giving back to the community mean to you?

“It means a lot. It gives me happiness.” – Charlie L.

“Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and fulfilling feelings of achievement. Giving back and contributing to our society, in my view, is unparalleled and it is a duty that everyone should work on.” – Lucy S.

“I can share my love with them and let them know that we have not abandoned them and that society has not abandoned them.” – Wendy Z.

Is this your first time volunteering?

“Yes!” – Charlie L.

“Yes, it is the first time for me doing it.” – Lucy S.

“Yes, actually the time I spent in Alenah’s Home is my first time volunteering.” – Wendy Z.

Is volunteer work something you will continue to do in the future?

“Definitely!” – Charlie L.

“Sure, volunteering helps me to gain experiences and teaches me more about myself and the world. This connects me and society closer together.” – Lucy S.

“Yes, through my two years at Alenah’s Home, I have realized that volunteering can’t be done for just a while because they need more help than just a short period of time. The love for them will continue no matter where I am.” – Wendy Z.

Each month we will be rounding up the news about all the markets, bazaars, and fairs which Beijing has to offer. We aim to include all events, large and small, so if you have a market you want to let our readers know about please shoot us a message by commenting on this post or through WeChat. Fall will be filled with new and old markets and bazaars. We are excited that the season has started again.

Beijing Flea Market 21st of October

One of the best markets in Beijing is back this autumn. The market will have over 40 vendors and will feature products that are made in Beijing. Located at The Pop Up the Beijing Flea Market will be from 12 to 6 pm.

Harrow Autumn Fair 14th of October 

This autumn fair is brought together by students, staff, parents and outside vendors. There will be games, food, performances and other activities on the school grounds. Find the location to the school here.

Beijing Riviera Market 15th of October

Shunyi is lucky to have this market at the Riviera Country Club. The next market will be the 15th of October from 11 to 4pm.

Farms to Neighbors Market Halloween Special Sunday October 29th 

Farms to neighbors will have a spooky market with a dress up competition. The market will last from 12 to 6pm. Farmers market will be on a short break for the next two weekends but will return after the October holiday.

Rumble in the Jumble will take a break in October but will be back in November with a special day of the dead party.

Picture Credit Pixabay and Vendors

Shunyi Happenings this week offers multiple camps for you children, opportunities to fund raise for a good cause or donate blood to save a life and options to challenge yourself physically with a hike or a run! If you want to promote an event, store opening or closing, sale, and any other fun family friendly event taking place in Shunyi, please get in touch with our Shunyi Correspondent Anjana Kainikkara by emailing anjanakainikkara@beijing-kids.com

Labour Day Survival Camp with Imagine, Apr 29 – May 2
Feeling adventurous? You won’t regret signing up for this camp! Learn survival skills by making a fire, building a raft, crossing rivers, making traps and cooking on open fires. Experience the outdoors and develop a deeper sense of appreciation for it through this camp.  Transportation from three different locations provided. Price is all inclusive.

All ages. RMB 700 per day. Shimenshan, Huairou District.
Transportation offered: 8.30am-5.40pm, at Starbucks, Lido Place, Metropark Lido Hotel. 9am-5.15pm, at Riviera Country Club. 9.20am-4.55pm, at Kuliushu Huandao Houshayu. Imagine (www.imagine-china.com/survival-camp-labour-day/)

Multi Martial Arts Camp by Flips and Kicks at BSB, Apr 30 – May 2
This Multi-Martial Arts Camp will give you a taste of Tai Ji/Wushu, Karate, BJJ, Muaythai, Taekwondo and more! Expert coaches will be on hand to ensure your child has a safe and fun experience. This is a great opportunity if your kid is unsure of which style they prefer, as he or she can try all of these and decide for themselves what they’d like to pursue. For more information go to www.flipsandkicksplus.com

Ages 9-18.  Flips & Kicks Plus, (13718462044, info@flipsandkicksplus.com)

BJU Blood Drive at International School of Beijing at ISB Spring Fair, May 7

The ISB Spring Fair is a fun event for the whole family! Engaging games, activities, food and shopping will keep everyone entertained. You will also have a couple of different options to choose from if you’re feeling charitable on that day. Browse the latest reads at the Roundabout book fair or donate blood for the BJU Blood Drive. The Boy Scouts Troop 943 should feel extremely proud of their initiative to work in conjunction with Tongzhou Blood Center and Beijing United Family Hospital, and organize a Community Blood Drive. Come and support this great effort by donating to save lives! Passport/ID required for registration. Walk-ins welcome, or reserve a time with Jenifer at Jenifer.Sullivan@ufh.com.cn

All ages. Free. 10am-4pm. ISB, 10, An Hua Street, Shunyi District, (10 8149 2345)

Annual Harrowthon Charity Event with Roundabout, May 8
Harrowthon, an annual charity event, is joing with Roundabout to host a mini book fair. In line with Harrow, London’s tradition, all students will participate in one of the events for their House. Visitors will have an opportunity to browse the Roundabout stalls while sampling a delicious range of food and beverages. A football match in the afternoon, with staff playing against a Chinese All-Star celebrity team, is on the agenda to get the crowds pumped up and add more excitement. Money raised at this event will go towards Roundabout. The races commence at 9:15am and the fee includes Goodie Inc. T-shirts and souvenirs. You can support your participating children or even participate yourself!

RMB 100. 9am onwards. Register online for the 10K race in person at the school. Harrow International School Beijing, No.287, Hegezhuang Village, Cuigezhuang County, Chaoyang District, (+86 10 64448900)

Mother’s Day Hike, May 8
Join the Beijing Hikers on a lovely hiking tour through Xiangtun Village to the Little Lake/ Yanqing. There are two trails to choose from depending on family size and ages of accompanying children. The first one is a 7 km looping trail through lush valleys in the hills, just North of Ming Tombs, suitable for families with smaller children. Starting off on a dirt trail, off of the main road, you’ll walk through chestnut orchards towards a small village. The second 12 km trail, best for families with older children, goes through a forested and leafy valley, with a small stream flowing through it. Sign your family up for one of these and celebrate Mother Nature on Mother’s day!

All ages. 210 RMB. 9am-5.30pm. Riviera Country Club, No.1,  Xiang Jiang Bei Road, Chaoyang District (+86 10 84506888)

Photo Courtesy: BJU, Harrow International School Beijing, Riviera Country Club, Flips and Kicks Plus, Imagine, International School of Beijing.

Once again, Harrow International School Beijing is getting ready for its annual Autumn Fair with games, activities, performances, and food for the larger Beijing community. Taking place on Saturday, October 18 from 10am to 4pm on school grounds, this is the first year that Harrow is allowing external vendors to participate. As usual, all proceeds will fund Harrow’s house charities and school improvements. Admission is free.

One of Harrow’s biggest fundraising events, the Autumn Fair is expected to attract 2,000 visitors this year with approximately 80 stalls run by parents, students, and external vendors.

For the latter, there’s a focus on fun activities for kids. Participants include Wanlong Ski Resort, Beijing Sailing Center, Center Ice, and Little Gym. Most of them will be running free games.

According to a floor plan provided by Friends of Harrow (the school’s parent-teacher organization), these will include:

• A jousting ring with Headmaster David Shinkfield taking on challengers (find out more about him here)
• A bouncy castle
• A treasure dig
• An inflatable obstacle course
• A friendly soccer tournament for kids under 9 (be sure to bring your child’s cleats and shorts if they’re interested in participating)
• A ring toss
• Golf

There will also be cultural activities such as:

• Scottish dancing with members of the Beijing Caledonian Society (having been a whiskey tasting with these guys before, I can tell you they’ll be great)
• Theater workshops
• On-the-spot portraits by a Harrow student artist
• Student performances

In addition, Harrow’s parent community will make dishes from their home countries, including Italian, English, Scottish, and Korean.

Finally, the Grand Raffle will have prizes like wine, ski passes, a four-night stay in Hong Kong and Macau with access to the Ocean Waterpark, summer camp vouchers worth RMB 6,600, photography sessions, pearls worth up to RMB 10,000, and more.

In case of high AQI, the school will move the fair indoors.

More pics from last year:

Photos: Courtesy of Friends of Harrow

Tell us about yourself.
I am from Melbourne Australia, but I spent many years living in the UK. I have been in Beijing for just one month. My wife, Franziska, is from Leipzig in Germany and we have two boys who both attend Harrow!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Who was your childhood hero? I desperately wanted to be a cricket star and Greg Chappell, former Australian Captain, was my childhood hero.

What kind of student were you as a child?
I had my fair share of visits to the heads’ office for being naughty, but once I hit secondary school I was pretty straight and worked hard.

What was your image of the school headmaster when you were a student? How do you describe your image now?
I remember my headmaster as being quite strict and difficult to approach and talk to, so I try hard to smile a lot and talk to as many children in a day as I can.

Did you ever get sent to the headmaster’s office?
Many times – I got the cane once for getting into a fight on a school bus.

What kind of jobs did you have before becoming a headmaster?
I worked for a summer when I was at university as a furniture remover – very hard work indeed, especially in the hot Australian sun.

What is a typical day like in the life of a headmaster?
There are lots of meetings and much correspondence to take care of, as well as talking to lots of people and trying very hard to always be around the students. It is busy but very rewarding.

How do most people respond when they find out you are a school headmaster?
How do your kids or your spouse introduce you to their friends? I don’t think people treat me differently because I am a headmaster. My boys disown me at school though and I leave them to get on with things too.

What job would you want to do if you were not a headmaster?
I would really like to go back and be a student again – I think I would make much more use of my time at university if I could go back again, but I love being a teacher and can’t imagine doing any other job.

In all your time as an educator, what is the most important lesson you’ve learned?
Listen first. This is the most important lesson I have learned not just as a head, but also as a teacher. This is particularly important in the context of working in different cultural contexts, but I have found it most useful when teaching math; you really need to understand what the student knows before you can challenge them with deeper and more complex ideas.

Meet the Principal/Headmaster is a new beijingkids blog series designed to give the Beijing community a better understanding of who our education leaders are in our city. If your school is interested in being featured in our Meet the Principal/Headmaster blog series, please contact the School Editor, yvetteferrari@truerun.com.

Harrow International School Beijing sponsored two pieces of students’ artworks for AustCham & New Zealand 2014 Silver Ball held on 26th April at China World Hotel. Johannes Lu, Harrow Beijing Year 12 Art student contributed a painting of a landscape, which he painted from his holiday to Italy. Yoyo Wang, Harrow Beijing Year 13 student who successfully obtained a place to read Fine Art at St Anne’s, Oxford University, contributed an award-winning photograph. The Painting auctioned for RMB 480 to Shien Joe, and the photo auctioned for RMB 2,000 to Mr. H. Campbell.

Please see our website: www.harrowbeijing.cn
OR contact admissions directly: admissions@harrowbeijing.cn
Tel:  -86 10 6444 8900 (Admissions – extension 6900)

This sponsored blog post has been brought to you by Harrow International School Beijing

Photos courtesy of Harrow Beijing