This spring, the Ottawa-Carleton Education Network (OCENET) teamed up with the Chengdu Chenghua Municipal Education Bureau to offer students an exciting international exchange opportunity. Eleven OCDSB high school students journeyed to Chengdu, China, while we welcomed 18 students from Chengdu at our elementary schools.
OCDSB students enjoyed two weeks jam-packed with adventures and immersive activities. They got to visit Chengdu’s elementary and secondary schools where they watched dance performances, participated in tai chi, explored martial arts, and sampled famous dishes from Sichuan cuisine
The students also toured the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. They capped off their trip by visiting a historical temple and palace during the Qingming Festival and taking in the sights on the picturesque Qingcheng Mountain.
The experience allowed students to grow their cultural awareness and life skills, while offering plenty of opportunities to boost their international language skills. It also counted toward their International Certificate Program (ICP) goals. The ICP recognizes secondary students who demonstrate a commitment to being motivated, engaged and active global citizens.
Meanwhile, in Ottawa, students from Chengdu joined the grade 5-8 classes at Jack Donohue Public School, John Young Elementary School, W. Erskine Johnston Public School, and W.O. Mitchell Elementary School.
During their 4-week stay, they enjoyed fun activities – from music to pottery – and visited Parc Omega, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Embassy of China. They also had opportunities to try classic Canadian treats like Beaver Tails and maple taffy.
The OCDSB has been partners with the Chengdu Chenghua Municipal Education Bureau since 2016, connecting senior staff, teachers, and students both virtually and in person. The OCDSB also works with other educational institutions around the world, and recently hosted reciprocal exchanges with Provence, France and Yokohama, Japan.
What’s next on the itinerary? We’re offering another exchange opportunity for secondary students in Chengdu from November 19th to 29th, 2024. Students will stay with host families and explore this amazing city of 30 million people. Interested high school students can apply at this link by July 1st!