In the sun-drenched and vibrant Leicester this July, University of Science and Technology Beijing - De Montfort University Confucius Institute (USTB-DMU Confucius Institute), in collaboration with Sifu Derek’s martial arts team, held the "Children’s Chinese Martial Arts Summer Camp" on every Saturday morning. The camp offered a splendid Chinese cultural feast that blended culture and martial arts to nearly 30 local children aged 5 to 14, along with their parents. All four sessions were held on the DMU campus, striking a perfect balance between dynamic and tranquility, much like a carnival weaving summer childhood joy with Chinese culture.
Since its launch on the UK’s mainstream platform Eventbrite in June, the camp has gained wide popularity, with spots for all four sessions fully booked. Teachers from both China and the UK, together with the martial arts coaches, elaborately planned and executed every detail-from course content to venue decoration-striving to create a cultural space where children could learn with joy and grow through experience.
Each session started promptly at 10 a.m. with a fascinating cultural workshop. Guided by the volunteer teachers, children explored the mysterious world of pictographic characters, painting ancient images of "sun", "moon", "mountain" and "water." They put their imaginations running wild with blown-ink painting, turning natural inspiration into unique Chinese artworks. In the game of "Duck Duck Goose", they experienced the charm of traditional play through chasing and laughter. The classroom buzzed with laughter and creativity, as young hearts danced with culture.
Then it was time to change into martial arts uniforms. Under the guidance of the coaches, the children entered a whole new world. From warm-ups to fist techniques, from opening stances to complete routines, every move was disciplined yet full of vitality. The young learners looked truly heroic, grasping the spirit of Chinese martial arts: "internal and external cultivation, hardness and softness in harmony". Many parents watched from the sidelines, and are so inspired that they could hardly resist joining in. The Confucius Institute teachers thoughtfully provided tea breaks to keep the children energized, making sure the sessions remained warm and caring.
On the final day, the Confucius Institute held a simple yet solemn closing ceremony for the children who had participated throughout the camp. Prof. Zhang Yi, Chinese Director of USTB-DMU Confucius Institute, and Sifu Derek presented certificates and traditional Chinese souvenirs. The children, holding their certificates and prizes, beamed with joy and pride. A group photo captured the brightest moments of the summer.
This Children’s Chinese Martial Arts Summer Camp not only brightened the children’s holiday but also gently sowed the seeds of Chinese culture in young hearts. Parents expressed their gratitude: "Thank the Confucius Institute for providing such a wonderful platform where our children can learn through play and grow through learning." , "We hope to see more Chinese language and martial arts courses in the future!"
As a vital bridge for Sino-British cultural exchange, the USTB-DMU Confucius Institute remains committed to promoting Chinese language education and culture. This "culture + martial arts" summer program is a vivid example of the Confucius Institute’s exploration of diverse, fun, and accessible cultural experiences. Looking ahead, the Confucius Institute will continue to offer a rich variety of youth programs, contributing to Sino-British friendship and enabling more children to grow in culture and know each other through exchange.
