CDNIS
With only three weeks separating the Christmas break from the Lunar New Year break, there was limited time to prepare an elaborate celebration. Nonetheless, valiant efforts were made behind the scenes by teachers and staff to ensure that the holiday wouldn’t go by unnoticed.
Decorations made by various classes were hung up and displayed around the school, transforming the environment into a vibrant celebration. From pipe-cleaner mandarins to traditional calligraphy and paintings, the school was decorated head-to-toe with festive ornamentation to welcome the new year. Students were especially encouraged to contribute, with each cohort being responsible for creating their own specific type of decoration. By the time the final week before break rolled around, nearly the entire school was fully outfitted with festive decorations – a testament to the hard work and creativity put in by both students and teachers.
During the week leading up to the break, grade-specific activities were held. One highlight was a red-packet distribution event, organized by the Grade 11 representatives. This engaging event allowed students to share Chinese proverbs to selected teachers in exchange for red packets, containing treats such as chocolates, coupons, or even a ‘golden ticket’ to claim a special prize. Though contained within a single cohort, small events such as these significantly helped increase the Lunar New Year spirit throughout the school.
To close off the week, students were treated to a festive delight at the annual Chinese New Year assembly before heading off for their break. This year’s performances by students studying Chinese at CDNIS showcased a lively array of talent, featuring dancing, vocal performances, and traditional Chinese music. Both group acts and solo performances
provided a rich variety towards the showings, keeping the audience engaged throughout the assembly. The highly anticipated tradition of the finale of the dumpling eating contest also occurred, adding a humorous touch and maintaining high energy in the LLAC.
Altogether, the festive decorations and activities helped make the last week before break more enjoyable and exciting, breaking up the monotony of school life with activities that helped heighten the anticipation of the LNY.