JESIE’s host primary schools in Wuxi went head to head in a spelling bee contest on 26th May, 2016. Teams of six students from Wangzhuang, Shuofang, Nanfeng, Xin’an and Fangqian primary schools put on their best uniforms and got together at Eton House International School to test their English skills in a spelling bee.

Supported by their foreign teachers Graham, Georgie, Julie and Ethan, the teams competed in three rounds of competitive action. Round one saw students compete individually to spell words on a whiteboard, at the direction of judges Val, Kathleen, Tony, James and Tom. Round two tested the students’ verbal spelling skills, while the grand finale tested teams of students by having them write the required words faster than the others. After a tense and hotly contested final round, the Bee climaxed with a victory for Wangzhuang Primary School after a truly impressive performance.

Their victory was well-deserved, but all the students deserve commendation for their valiant efforts. Every child showed great confidence and courage to stand up and test their skills in a foreign language in front of a crowd of complete strangers. This confidence is an important part of proficiency in a foreign language and all the kids involved should feel proud of their efforts.

Special thanks also go to Wuxi New District Education Bureau and Eton House School for arranging such a great location, and Head Teacher Abe for hosting the show despite being ill at the time. All in all, all the organizers and participants worked together to ensure the event was a great success.