Our YCIS Beijing Year 7 students embarked on a fascinating field trip to the National Library of China, transforming their classroom learning into a tangible and unforgettable experience. This visit was meticulously designed to align with their current studies, offering a living lesson in the heart of traditional Chinese culture under the vital theme of inheriting and carrying forward intangible cultural heritage.

The experience was a hands-on dive into the world of ancient engraving and printing—a cornerstone of Chinese civilisation and a treasured piece of the world's intangible cultural legacy.

A Hands-On Encounter with Living History

At the National Library, our students engaged directly with the art of engraving and printing. They were not merely observers but active participants, feeling the grain of the woodblocks and the careful pressure needed to create a clear impression. This tactile experience brought to life the intricate process that revolutionised knowledge and culture in China and beyond.

Under the guidance of expert facilitators, our young learners explored the historical origins and evolution of this technology. They learnt about the key techniques, from carving the intricate reverse characters and witnessing their own hands produce a page of text was a powerful moment of connection to the scholars and artisans of centuries past.

Connecting the Past to the Present

The purpose of this excursion extended far beyond creating a beautiful souvenir. It was a profound lesson in cultural continuity. The visit helped our students recognise the indispensable role that engraving and printing played in the preservation and dissemination of Chinese philosophy, literature, and scientific knowledge.

This historical context prompted meaningful reflections on a modern-day challenge: how do we protect and sustain such traditional crafts in our fast-paced, digital world? The experience served as a catalyst for students to contemplate the importance of safeguarding these intangible treasures and the role they themselves can play.

Deepening Understanding and Inspiring Responsibility

Ultimately, this field trip was a powerful step in fostering a sense of cultural stewardship among our students. By physically engaging with the process, they gained a deeper, more personal understanding of the craftsmanship and dedication embedded in intangible cultural heritage. It highlighted their generation's responsibility—not just as passive inheritors, but as active custodians of this rich cultural legacy.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 7 students for their curiosity and enthusiasm throughout this journey. At YCIS Beijing, we believe that education is most powerful when it connects learning to real-world experiences, fostering global citizens who appreciate and contribute to the cultural tapestry of our world. This trip to the National Library was a perfect embodiment of that mission.