Exchange visit for Shanghai Teachers.

Birmingham Metropolitan College recently hosted a group of Chinese teachers from Shanghai – and the college visit went a long way towards cementing a relationship between the two countries.

Ten teachers accompanied by an interpreter were given an extensive tour of the college including learning about fashion, motor vehicle maintenance, mechanical engineering, construction, appliance fitting and art and design, as well as being given an overview of student monitoring systems, employer engagement and a more general introduction to the UK Further Education system.

Andrew Cleaves, Principal at Birmingham Metropolitan College, said: “Our International Development team devised a comprehensive and intensive programme for our visitors to give them a real insight into lesson planning as well as teaching and learning styles in the UK. It was really exciting to welcome them at a time when both economies are experiencing growth, with associated skills challenges.”

Irene Yu, Director of Alliance Group who liaised with the government in China to arrange the visit, added: “During our visit our teachers have learned a great deal about the British Further Education system and, in particular, vocational courses and it’s our intention to take this knowledge back to China and put it into practice. We shall certainly be recommending the college to our students.”

The group visited Matthew Boulton and James Watt Campuses in Birmingham, the Art & Design Campus and the Advanced Technology Campus in Brierley Hill as well as visiting partner employer, Jaguar Land Rover. The teachers were presented with a gift and certificate in a Graduation Ceremony at the end of their visit.

Anyone interested in International study at Birmingham Metropolitan College should check out courses on the website: www.bmetc.ac.uk