The event provided students with an opportunity to use the language learnt at school, engage in Chinese culture and activities and celebrate the spirit of the Olympic Games. CCGS introduced Chinese as a language in 2007. It has proved popular in its second year with 21 students studying in Years 6 and 7 as well as two Year 8 classes.

Earlier in the week, Year 9 and 10 Language students joined forces with MLC for a Languages Quiz. The quiz, organised by MLC and Christ Church language teacher Diane Hooley, tested students on their Japanese, German and French general knowledge. Head of Languages Ms Elisabeth Gerber said the quiz was a great success and that Christ Church hoped to host the event next year.

In the Senior School, boys had a chance to sample a different, international cuisine each day as part of the Languages Week menu available at the Canteen. German, Asian, French, Italian and Australian fare was all on offer from barbecue pork dim sum buns through to chicken provencale. Boys were also encouraged to visit the Refectory during lunchtime to try their hand at games and activities from other cultures. Christoph, the Languages Department’s German assistant, ran soccer games and quizzes; Kevin, the French assistant, organised a ‘Garçon de Café’ (French waiter) race; while YuYa led traditional Japanese games with toys as well as a chopstick competitions.
 
Year 10, 11 and 12 French students have also been taking part in the Alliance Française language competitions. “We hope to have some prize winners among them with prizes including trips to France or Réeunion Island,” said Ms Gerber. German students, from Years 8 to 12 have also been sitting competitive exams for the DAS (a German/Australian Language Centre).  “We wish all the students the best of luck and look forward to getting the results back soon,” she said.