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Arrival in Shanghai ✈️🌏
After an exciting journey, the girls touched down in Shanghai, ready to begin their adventure at Adcote Shanghai. The group was warmly welcomed by staff and student hosts, immediately feeling the buzz of life on campus. Settling into their new environment, there was a sense of both excitement and curiosity for what the days ahead would bring.
Day 1 – Settling In and First Impressions 🌟
The first official day was all about making connections and exploring their new surroundings. The girls met their new buddies through fun ice-breaking activities before heading off on a guided tour of the campus.
Academic life began straight away, with lessons in Economics, Physics, and English, giving them a taste of learning at Adcote Shanghai. At lunchtime, a highlight was the chance to enjoy a Starbucks from the onsite café – a little treat in between classes!
The day didn’t end there. In the afternoon, the girls took part in archery and dance, balancing their academic schedule with creativity and sport. It was the perfect first day: a mix of new friendships, new learning experiences, and new challenges.
Day 2 – Learning, Language and Lots of Fun 🎭🏀🔬
Day 2 at Adcote Shanghai was another jam-packed and exciting experience for the girls. Their timetable was filled with stimulating lessons including Psychology, Mathematics, double Physics, and Critical Thinking, giving them the chance to explore subjects in depth and challenge their ideas.
Beyond the classroom, the girls enjoyed a taste of Chinese culture with a lively Mandarin workshop, before heading to the sports hall for a friendly basketball game. In the afternoon, creativity took centre stage in a theatre lesson, where they built confidence and teamwork skills through performance.
The day concluded with an inspiring STEAM workshop, bringing science, technology, engineering, arts and maths together in hands-on activities. It was the perfect way to end another busy day of learning, culture, and fun!
Day 3 – Dragon Boats, Goblet of Fire & Talent Show 🏆🚣♀️🎤
Wednesday began with an adventurous start as the girls took part in a Dragon Boat rowing lesson at Shanghai Sculpture Park. Paddles in hand, they experienced teamwork and rhythm while enjoying the stunning surroundings of the park.
The excitement continued with the Goblet of Fire competition, a first-ever event uniting Adcote Shanghai, UK, Suzhou, and Zhezhong! The girls competed in orienteering, archery, mural creation, and team challenges, demonstrating skill, creativity, and collaboration. Their efforts paid off as they brought home the gold – a truly historic moment for Adcote!
The day wrapped up on a high note with the girls preparing and performing in the Talent Show, showcasing their unique skills and creativity in front of their new friends and teachers. Another action-packed day full of learning, teamwork, and unforgettable memories!
Day 4 – Suzhou Adventures, Traditions & Mooncakes 🎎🐎🌙
Today brought another incredible experience as the girls travelled to Adcote Suzhou. On arrival, they were each given a Chinese name and paired with new buddies who proudly showed them around the beautiful campus — including a visit to the school horses, which was a real highlight!
In the afternoon, the group explored the charming Tongli Water Town. Here, the girls selected their own traditional Chinese dresses, complete with elegant matching hairstyles, before setting off on a tranquil sculling boat ride beneath the town’s ancient bridges. Along the way, they discovered historic gardens, including the site of China’s very first girls’ school — a truly inspiring moment.
The day ended back at school with a cultural treat: learning how to make delicious Mooncakes, the perfect way to round off a day full of history, tradition, and hands-on fun.
Day 5 – Day 2 at Adcote Suzhou 💎🐎🎶
Our second day at Adcote Suzhou was another rich mix of culture, learning, and friendship. The morning began with a hands-on workshop where the girls learned to make traditional Chinese jewellery. With guidance from their teachers and buddies, they created delicate pieces that will serve as beautiful keepsakes from their time here.
Next came the highlight of the morning — horse riding on campus. The girls loved the chance to connect with the school’s horses, building confidence as they tried something new in a truly memorable setting.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted back to academics with stimulating lessons in Psychology and Music. These gave the girls an opportunity to stretch their thinking while also exploring the creative and emotional side of learning.
The day drew to a close with a presentation session, allowing the girls to reflect on their experiences and share what they had learned with their peers and hosts.
Once again, their buddies showered them with kindness and generosity, gifting them thoughtful souvenirs and treats — including the ever-popular Boba (Bubble) tea. This sweet surprise was the perfect way to round off another day of cultural exchange, friendship, and adventure.
Day 6 – Family Day in Shanghai 🏙️❤️
Saturday was a special day as each of our students spent time with a local family, enjoying a unique and personal view of life in Shanghai. Every family had carefully prepared their own itinerary, showing the girls the very best of the city — from local markets and cultural sights to favourite restaurants and hidden gems. The girls had a wonderful time, fully immersing themselves in Shanghai life, and spent the evening sharing stories of their adventures before heading to bed.
Meanwhile, Mrs Fletcher was treated to a City Walk, exploring many of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, before being happily reunited with Mrs Tribe at the end of the day. It was a day full of connections, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Day 7 – A Magical Day at Disney ✨🏰🎢
Before heading home, the girls enjoyed a day of pure fun and adventure at Shanghai Disney Resort. From thrilling rides to dazzling shows and the magic of walking through Disney’s famous streets, it was the perfect way to celebrate the end of an unforgettable trip.
Laughter, excitement, and a little Disney sparkle made the day truly special. The girls returned tired but happy, full of stories about their favourite rides and characters, ready to carry these magical memories home with them.
Day 8 – Farewell to Adcote Shanghai ❤️✈️
On behalf of Adcote UK, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our hosts at Adcote Shanghai for the extraordinary generosity, kindness, and warmth shown throughout our stay. In particular, we would like to thank Ms Kathleen, Head of Adcote Shanghai, for her leadership and vision in making this partnership so meaningful.
Our students have been fully immersed in school life — whether moving with rhythm and energy in dance class, focusing in archery, or sharing laughter and stories over coffee at the campus Starbucks. The constant generosity of both students and staff in keeping us supplied with coffee and treats truly carried us through late nights, early mornings, and everything in between!
Today’s awards were more than a celebration of achievement; they were a celebration of kindness, hospitality, and the partnership between our two schools. This visit has not only been an incredible experience but the beginning of something lasting and meaningful.
Thank you once again to Ms Kathleen, all the staff, and the students who welcomed us so warmly. We return home with full hearts, wonderful memories, and, I must admit… very full suitcases!
