This week, our Academy had the privilege of welcoming a group of visiting Japanese teachers who brought a rich cultural experience to our students during their Japanese lesson.
The classroom was filled with the sounds of the Koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, as students enjoyed playing it themselves as well as demonstrations from the highly-skilled teachers. Together, they sang Sakura Sakura, a famous Japanese folk song celebrating the cherry blossom season, symbolising beauty, renewal and the fleeting nature of life.
Students also explored the intricate art of origami, using beautiful, authentic Japanese origami paper. Each of our students was invited to choose a handmade origami figure, created and gifted by Japanese students — a personal memento of the cultural exchange to take home and treasure.
In a particularly moving gesture, the visiting teacher presented our students with 100 delicate paper cranes, which she had made by hand especially for them. She shared the touching story behind this tradition — the legend of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who was exposed to radiation following the Hiroshima bombing in World War II. Diagnosed with leukaemia at just 12 years old, Sadako began folding 1,000 paper cranes, inspired by the Japanese belief that such an act could grant a wish. Although she sadly passed away before reaching her goal, Sadako’s story has become a powerful symbol of peace, hope and resilience around the world.
This memorable visit was not only a celebration of Japanese culture, but a deeply meaningful moment of human connection, reminding us all of the power of kindness, empathy and shared learning across borders.
We thank our guests for such an inspiring and heartfelt experience.
