A Chinese New Year workshop for Reception children was held in the Pre-Preparatory Hall this week. Pupils in both Reception classes learnt about Chinese New Year through music and movement. Led by Maggie of Maggie's Music, pupils were read The Great Race - The Story of the Chinese Zodiac (by Dawn Casey) and were entertained by Chinese puppets. Some children even had Chinese instruments to play.

Maggie wished everyone a Happy New Year in Chinese and explained how the years were named after animals and how the 12 animals were chosen.  In order to be selected 13 animals had to take part in a race, but the rat cheated by riding on the Ox's back until the last minute when he jumped off to cross the finish line ahead of the other animals.  The result of the race decided which animal would represent which year and so the first year began with the year of the rat.

The children took turns to travel in the Chinese lions (pictured above) whilst others joined in with making music with drums. They also had a parade around the hall with Chinese lanterns. Headteacher of the Pre-Prep Mrs Wilson commented, "The Pre-Preparatory pupils clearly enjoyed all the activities immensely, responded really well during the workshop and were delighted to learn about Chinese New Year."