Crumlin celebrates Year of the Sheep

The pupils were joined by children of the Irish medium school, Gaelscoil and Naíscoil Ghleann Darach, to celebrate the Year of the Sheep.

The event, was organised by British Council Northern Ireland, where P3 and P4 pupils were entertained by the Chinese Welfare Association.

The pupils, impressed their guests with their own knowledge of Mandarin; rhyming off words, greetings and how to count to ten.

Deirdre Downey, Coordinator of International Links at St Joseph’s Primary said: “All the pupils really enjoyed the day. It was also a great way for us to bring Chinese culture to another school.

“The day complements what we already do with our Chinese Language Assistant, Zhang Hai Yang, who has been an asset in promoting Chinese culture in the classroom. She has worn traditional Chinese dress, shown the children how to use chopsticks, and taught them how to say names of the animals of the zodiac.”

Jonathan Stewart, Deputy Director, British Council Northern Ireland, said: “For the British Council, 2015 will focus on the next generation, developing cultural exchanges, the flow of ideas and developing stronger relationships between people and institutions.

“The influence that China has on the world economy is increasing and it is important that we do all we can to prepare our young people for life in a globalised, multicultural society.

“Young people therefore need to be outward looking, not only to face the challenges of globalisation but to embrace the opportunities that open up new horizons for their future.”