'Gung Hay Fat Choy' were the words heard at Cornwall College St Austell last week (February 5) as staff, international students and their guests enjoyed an evening of Chinese New Year festivities at The Keay Theatre, St Austell.
To welcome in the Year of the Tiger, guests were treated to a special evening of food and entertainment as students performed the famous lion dance, sang authentic Chinese songs, gave lessons in the history of Chinese New Year and the use of chopsticks, and ended the night with the release of traditional Chinese sky lanterns.
Sarah Walkey, International Manager for Cornwall College, said: “This was our tenth Chinese New Year celebration, an event which goes from strength to strength each year. This is the most significant of the Chinese holidays and the students worked exceptionally hard to make this an exciting and entertaining night for everyone. We are very proud of our international students and are delighted to be able to share in their culture and traditions at such a special time.”
The evening started with the traditional lion dance, which is usually performed throughout the first few days of New Year celebrations and brings good luck to all households it visits.
After the dance the celebrations continued with students sharing their traditional festivities and showcasing their musical talents, including solo and group vocal performances and piano and flute recitals.
Dave Linnell OBE, Principal of Cornwall College, explained: “This was a brilliant evening and I’m very proud of the students for organising such an important event. Equality and diversity are extremely important to us at the College and this has been a valuable opportunity for our international students to share their culture and traditions with the rest of the staff and student body.”
International students come to Cornwall College from all over the world, attracted by the unique lifestyle and specialist courses. With students of over 30 different nationalities currently enrolled at the seven campus sites and an expanding Alumni group of successful international graduates, Cornwall College offers a world-class education for today’s global citizens.
For further information about studying at Cornwall College and the opportunities it provides, please call 0845 22 32 567 or visit www.cornwall.ac.uk.
