The first classroom of its kind in the Crown Dependencies was officially opened this morning at Ballakermeen High School.

The Chinese authorities have granted Independent Confucius Classroom status to the school in recognition of its long association with the Number 1 School in Liuyang, Hanan Province.

The classroom will offer the whole community the opportunity to study the language and culture of China.

The formal opening was carried out by Mr Shen Yang, Minister Counsellor for Education at the Chinese Embassy in London, pictured here with Education Minister Tim Crookall.

Chief Minister Allan Bell, who attended the ceremony, said: 'Strengthening our relationship with China is an important part of our strategy to drive forward our economy and the opening of a Confucius Classroom in the Isle of Man is a welcome further link between our two countries.

'The establishment of a Confucius Classroom is a great testimony to the strength of Ballakermeen’s links with its partner school in China and represents a remarkable achievement for the Island.'

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