26.11.25
Senior leaders from Connah’s Quay High School took part in an inspiring international education delegation to Shenzhen in China, organised by the Global School Alliance.
Among the attendees were Jonathan King, Assistant Headteacher, and Aimee Cox, Head of Key Stage 4, who represented their school with pride during a week of vibrant cultural exchange and educational discovery.
The delegation visited several innovative schools across Shenzhen, engaging with Chinese counterparts to explore shared priorities, celebrate diverse approaches to learning, and uncover opportunities for meaningful collaboration. It proved to be an amazing and deeply enriching experience for all involved, fostering a renewed sense of global partnership and professional growth.
Throughout their visit, Jonathan and Aimee participated in thoughtful exchanges with school leaders, discussing the shared educational purpose and approaches to developing confident, future-ready learners.
These reflective conversations allowed the group to consider how insights from both the British and Chinese education landscapes could inspire fresh ideas—ranging from strengthening learner leadership and expanding international partnerships to driving forward whole-school commitment to global citizenship and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
A particular highlight of the trip was the warm and generous welcome received from the delegation’s sister school, Shenzhen Longgang Foreign Language School Group – Yunhe School.
The sense of connection was immediate, with leaders on both sides quickly identifying exciting possibilities for joint projects, online collaborations, and, in time, opportunities for reciprocal student exchanges.
The enthusiasm for shared learning and cultural understanding set a powerful tone for what promises to be a long-lasting partnership.
In his speech during the visit, Jonathan shared the group’s hopes for the years ahead, emphasising the transformative potential of this new relationship: “Our partnership will open doors for both our learners and staff to expand their horizons, embrace diverse cultures, and forge meaningful friendships.
Our partnership will open doors for both our learners and staff to expand their horizons, embrace diverse cultures, and forge meaningful friendships.
“Through future exchanges, collaborative projects, and shared learning experiences, together we will aspire to nurture learners who value cultural diversity and embrace new perspectives with an open heart. Our emphasis on global citizenship includes integrating initiatives like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into the curriculum and daily routines, preparing learners for a global landscape.”
The delegation returned to the UK inspired, energised, and ready to take forward the ideas and relationships formed in Shenzhen. This international visit stands as a testament to the power of global collaboration in shaping forward-thinking, culturally aware, and internationally connected school communities.
