In the words of Mrs Bernstein,
“That was one of the best days I’ve ever had in all of my visits to China!”

We started the day with breakfast in the hotel before heading to the Zhucheng Number 1 High School which is our leader Jin’s former school. We were greeted by the headmaster, other staff and pupils and time was given for the pupils from both schools to interact with each other and learn a bit about each other’s culture and interests. We were then given a tour of the school and had lunch in the staff cafeteria.

Our next visit was to the Children’s Palace where pupils and staff were given the opportunity to try out a new chinese skill; painting, paper cutting and calligraphy. This was so much fun and the work produced by the pupils was excellent.

After a quick stop off at a chinese supermarket which was an experience in itself (anyone for a pack of duck claws) we made a very important and emotional visit to Jin’s family home and got to meet his lovely Mum and Dad. This was a real eye opener for everyone and there was barely a dry eye in the house. Some of the pupils made the decision early on in the trip to donate some of their own money as a gift to Jin’s parents. This was a very generous gesture and one which was greatly appreciated by both Jin and his Parents.

After visiting Jin’s parent’s house, we went for, what many have said, was the best meal of the trip so far. This also included some of the strangest foods (creepie crawlies) we’ve eaten to date and for some, it was more like a bushtucker trial than a dinner!!

This was the food before it was cooked.

This was the food after it was cooked.

Now back in the hotel packing to move to hotel number 4 tomorrow as we head to Jinan.

Ps. Yes, most of the kids did eat the creepie crawlies!!!

PPs. Some of them actually enjoyed them!!