The BCI Hosts Chinese Language Teacher Training Day

On 5 December, The Business Confucius Institute at the University of Leeds (BCI) welcomed more than 30 Chinese language teachers from across Northern England for the 2025 Regional Chinese Language Teacher Training Day, a key event supporting the professional development of Mandarin teachers in the UK.

This year’s seminar focused on the theme "Facilitating Learning and Creating an Enabling Classroom for Chinese as a Second Language (CSL) Learners: The Role of Teachers in Chinese Language Classroom." The programme brought together teaching professionals, university academics, and school leaders for a day of practical demonstrations, expert feedback, and collaborative discussion.

Participants explored a range of pedagogical topics, including the indefinite use of interrogative pronouns, effective approaches to teaching Chinese locative words, and the evolving role of teachers in adult, primary, and secondary Mandarin classrooms in the UK. Live teaching demonstrations provided valuable opportunities for peer observation and reflective practice.

It was a really interesting event full of useful information on how I can approach my lessons and understand what is being taught to me and why.

The seminar was joined by Professor Clare Wright from the University of Leeds’ School of Languages, Cultures and Societies; Adrian Stipetic, Head of Modern Foreign Languages at Harrogate Grammar School; and Professor Hu Rong, Chinese Director of the Business Confucius Institute. Their expert insights enriched the discussions and highlighted the importance of high‑quality language education in fostering intercultural understanding.

The event reaffirmed the BCI’s commitment to supporting Chinese language teaching across the region and strengthening professional networks for educators. By providing a platform for shared learning and innovation, the BCI continues to play a leading role in enhancing Mandarin teaching standards in the UK.