HAGLEY school pupils have been learning about life in the far east during a visit from Chinese children.

Members of Hagley Primary School, Park Road, played host to youngsters from Yangzhou Wenhe Primary School,in Yangzhou, China, for a two-week exchange visit.

During their stay, the group of ten children and two teachers lived with Hagley pupils' families and worked on a variety of projects at the school, including drawing and painting British landscapes and practicing Chinese art forms.

Kevin Bailey, Hagley Primary headteacher, said: "The children and staff have had a wonderful visit during which time some fantastic friendships have been made especially with the host families.

"The children have shared similarities and differences about their cultures and have found out about each other’s lives. We believe this partnership will strengthen over the years."

The schools forged links two years ago and regularly keep in touch using the internet video system Skype.

English pupils have been learning to speak mandarin and the schools have been exchanging information on subjects including transport, travel and tourism, the Olympics, recycling and the environment.

Hagley pupil Nick Bodley, aged 11, said: "I have loved having my two friends from Yangzhou to stay at my house and at school. I have made two of the best friends ever."

During their stay, the Chinese children showed off their musical skills on the piano and a Chinese instrument called a Dizi, they also demonstrated Tai Chi, traditional Chinese dance and Chinese calligraphy.

The group also spent a weekend in London and were shown around Parliament by Hagley MP Sajid Javid.

Visiting student Fan Lili, aged 11, said: "I have enjoyed my time with the children at Hagley. My host family have been so kind to me, I liked playing with the children at school and I have enjoyed the visits. I wish they could come to Yangzhou in the future."