The beginning of the 2024 school year coincided with the celebration of the Lunar New Year. As part of the 12 year cycle, this year saw the return of the Year of the Dragon. Those born this year, or in 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940 or 1928 are said to be charismatic, intelligent, confident, powerful and are naturally lucky and gifted, and tend to do everything to the best of their ability with high standards.
Across the Senior school, classes have learned more about the Lunar New Year and undertaken a variety of learning to mark the occasion. With a great opportunity to create some wonderful art, here are some examples: Some classes constructed lucky red envelopes. These often contain financial gifts that, when passed to others, are said to bring prosperity.
Another art activity was the constructing of dragon puppets. This involved colouring the head and tail of a template which were then connected by a piece of folded paper that springs inwards and outwards (much like an accordion). Two sticks were attached, and when moved, create the appearance of a Chinese dragon, similar to those that dance in parades.
One lucky class was taught how to make geometric Chinese patterns by the International Students, which can be seen in the accompanying picture. I think we can all agree they look amazing. The final mention is for the beautiful close-ups of a dragon eye completed in pastel.
The Lunar New Year was also celebrated outside of school. There were many community initiatives with one of the most well-known and popular being the Lantern Festival. Those students who attended shared how mesmerising all the lanterns were. The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations and provides an opportunity for people to remember those who they loved, that have now passed, while bringing hope to the year ahead.
Come next year, the Lunar New Year will be marked with the Year of the Snake.
