The community in the north of the Island is being offered the chance to learn more about the language and culture of China.

Ramsey Grammar School is piloting community classes in Mandarin and Chinese culture from this month.

In an initiative funded by the Department for Economic Development (DED), teacher Wang Xin will offer 10, hour-long lessons starting on Tuesday 26th January, 5pm-6pm.

The classes are open to students in Years 10 to 13 and their parents and are being promoted to the wider community through Ramsey Commissioners and Ramsey Chamber of Trade.

Anyone interested in participating, either immediately or in the future, is invited to a community information evening being held at the school on Thursday 14th January at 6pm.

Annette Baker, Headteacher, said: ‘The Island is building strong links with China, which is an important nation, economically and culturally.

‘The Isle of Man Government’s Vision 2020 highlights the importance of developing deepening links with international partners who will be influential on our own future economic success.

‘Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK has led delegations of private sector representatives to China to promote the Island’s profile as an international business centre and generate business opportunities.’

Mrs Baker said: ‘Among our own students, this will reinforce the importance of learning new skills and this may encourage them to take up Oriental studies at university.

‘The course fits in perfectly with the school’s community strategy, aimed at engaging members of the wider community in learning alongside students.’

She added: ‘The project has brought me into contact with colleagues in China who indicate that there are business opportunities for companies who are able to facilitate “summer camp” experiences for Chinese partners to bring students to the Island.

‘These kinds of opportunities could multiply as the potential to engage in other projects emerges.’

Mrs Baker said: ‘If those taking part in this pilot wish to continue their learning, they can do so via the new Confucius Centre at Ballakermeen High School, Douglas, which is offering schoolchildren and the community lessons in Chinese language and culture.’

To find out more about the initiative, visit the blog at https://ramseygrammarschool.im/, email Headteacher@rgs.sch.im or ring 01624 811100.

Senior officials from DED will lead school assemblies on the importance of links with China in the run-up to the initiative’s launch.