Thomas’s Clapham is a respected UK independent school in London, recognised for its academic excellence and its commitment to a broad, enriching education. Language learning and cultural awareness play an important role in the school’s Lower School enrichment programme.
In partnership with hihilulu, the school offers a Chinese After-School Club that introduces pupils to Mandarin in a joyful, engaging, and age-appropriate way.
Programme Overview
hihilulu delivers weekly after-school Chinese clubs for Lower School pupils:
- Year 1 & Year 2 – 30 minutes once a week
- Year 3 & Year 4 – 60 minutes once a week
The club provides a relaxed and supportive environment where children can explore Chinese language and culture together. The school describes the programme as:
“A joyful space for students to explore language and culture together.”
Curriculum & Learning Design
The programme is based on the hihilulu Atelier® Beginner Curriculum, adapted to suit different age groups and learning needs.
- Year 1 & Year 2 sessions focus on listening, speaking, rhythm, and sound awareness through songs, stories, movement, and visual activities.
- Year 3 & Year 4 sessions build on this foundation with expanded vocabulary, simple sentence structures, early character recognition, and cultural themes.
Topics are selected from the hihilulu Atelier® Outline Tree and enriched with seasonal themes, Chinese festivals, and real-life contexts familiar to pupils.
Teaching Approach
Teaching follows a theme-based, multi-sensory approach, integrating elements of the STEAM concept and introducing Mandarin through language, culture, mathematics, science, and art. Lessons are carefully designed to keep pupils motivated and engaged after the school day, with a strong emphasis on participation and confidence-building.
Teaching & Course Support
The club is delivered by hihilulu-certified Chinese teachers and supported by the hihilulu Atelier® teaching platform and resources, including:
- Structured curriculum framework and lesson plans
- Animations, children’s songs, and keyword videos
- Interactive games and visual learning materials
Through this partnership, pupils at Thomas’s Clapham experience Mandarin learning that is accessible, enjoyable, and culturally enriching, laying a positive foundation for future language learning.
