Co-teaching in action at YCIS Beijing Photo: Courtesy of YCIS

 

Within British state schools, second language study is stated as non-statutory, meaning that second language study is optional for schools rather than compulsory. In terms of international schools, reports from the UK have highlighted an increasing demand from parents for bilingual schools with language at the heart of their curriculum. However, with an array of schools now offering some form of bilingual language program, it is necessary for parents to consider all aspects of the bilingual model being provided.

Now celebrating its 80th Anniversary, Yew Chung International School (YCIS) has always placed great emphasis on the importance of two world languages and is a key component within the school's philosophy and objectives. Wayne Richardson, co-principal at YCIS Beijing, emphasizes the importance that YCIS places on the study of language within the school's visionary bilingual model: "A unique feature of Yew Chung is how we constantly strive to bring together ideals of the East and West, and nowhere is this better exemplified than in our bilingual English and Chinese program in which we aim to provide students the best possible opportunity to gain fluency in these two major world languages within the context of all the students' learning. As a result of our strength in this area, many parents, educators and delegates visit our school to see this vision in practice."

Robyn Hamilton, primary coordinator at YCIS Beijing, believes it is necessary for schools to provide a curriculum that is truly international.

"An international curriculum does not mean using one country's curriculum. Through combining aspects of the National Curriculum for England and our own research-based Chinese curriculum, we have built something at YCIS that fits all our international students. Our bilingual and bicultural program starts in early childhood education at 2 years old to 18 years old in secondary and is a particular strength of our school. Each early childhood education and primary class has two fully qualified teachers, one Western and one Chinese with shared authority in the classroom."

 It is well documented that a bilingual program cannot be fully effective if it is based on a few hours of a language classes each week. So what should parents look for when they are considering a school with a bilingual program? Paula Phipps, a primary curriculum coordinator shares her thoughts, "I just don't think you can learn a second language to a level of fluency from an hour a day. It is important to find a school that has cultural and language components within its foundation.

Also, look at where the standards for the Chinese curriculum are coming from, and make sure it's a legitimate source. Parents will need to ask the school about their second language teacher's qualifications to be certain that the school can deliver what is being promised. For a bilingual program to be effective, students need to consistently hear both languages and be immersed in a bilingual environment."

Bilingualism or even multilingualism is a prized skill and gift for any student. An increasing number of expatriate families in China are recognizing the language opportunities available to their children. The future of China as an economic power means those who have a high level of fluency in the Chinese and English languages have a platform from which they can achieve great success.

Contact details:

Tel: (8610) 8583-3731

E-mail: enquiry@bj.ycef.com

web: www.ycis-bj.com