Welcoming Lunar New Year at Dulwich College (Singapore)

Lunar New Year is a culturally important part of the calendar at Dulwich College (Singapore), and this year was no exception as the College community came together to welcome the Year of the Rat.  From our youngest to oldest students, as well as parents and staff across all departments, everyone participated in an array of activities, performances and experiences that reflected the richness of this festival's traditions.

The halls of the College have been swathed in red and gold as our classrooms showcased the customs, stories and rituals of what is otherwise known as the Spring Festival. 

In DUCKS, students leveraged their Mandarin Dual Language Learning curriculum by embracing the festive spirit into their daily class life, with students focusing on how Lunar New Year is welcomed across countries and their own families. The cultural exploration also crossed into cooking lessons as Chinese dumplings were made, and classes worked on imaginative dragon dances, working with their peers on everything from traditional chants and dances, to crafting splendid props.

Older students across Junior School and Senior School immersed themselves in the mythological origins and customs of Lunar New Year. Classes and hallways became beacons of creativity as craft creations decorated learning spaces, from delicate paper lanterns to festive banners. 

Weeks of rehearsals culminated in two dazzling performing arts showcases from our students in Junior School and Senior School. Junior School brought to life the tale of Nian in a narrated drama piece, as guest performers from the local Keming Primary School presented their traditional fan dance. Another highlight of the concert was an erhu performance from a band of students, taught by members of our own parent community. Senior School explored the birth of the Chinese Zodiac Calendar followed by a spectacular performance depicting the legendary adventures of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, and his fellowship to the West.

Other festive surprises included all students and staff being treated to dragon dances by professional Chinese dance troupes, along with themed traditional Chinese meals in our dining rooms including an outstandingly crafted Year of the Rat themed Lo Hei. 

On behalf of Dulwich College (Singapore), we wish everyone happiness and prosperity in the new year ahead. Xin Nian Kuai Le! Gong Xi Fa Cai!