Puhoi Archives - Confucius Institute Helping to foster lasting relationships between New Zealand and China Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:28:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://ci.ac.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/favicon.png Puhoi Archives - Confucius Institute 32 32 210480186 Learning, Reflection, and a Day in Puhoi: MLA March Workshop 2026 https://ci.ac.nz/learning-reflection-and-a-day-in-puhoi-mla-workshop-2026/ Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:25:29 +0000 https://ci.ac.nz/?p=13422 The 2026 Mandarin Language Assistant (MLA) Orientation Week, held during the week commencing 2 February, concluded successfully with our new cohort gaining valuable practical insights into their roles and responsibilities. The programme was designed to equip the MLAs with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to begin their placements in local schools.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops and discussions covering classroom expectations, cultural exchange, communication strategies, and life in Aotearoa New Zealand. By the final day, many of whom are new to both the country and the experience of working in New Zealand schools, expressed growing confidence about settling into their host communities, connecting with Kiwi families, and stepping into their roles as language teaching assistants.

The Orientation Week not only provided professional preparation, but also fostered a strong sense of community among the MLAs as they begin this shared journey. We look forward to the positive contributions they will make in schools across the wider Auckland region and wish all our MLAs a rewarding and successful year ahead.

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Learning, Reflection, and a Day in Puhoi: MLA March Workshop 2026

14 March – As autumn settled across Auckland, the Confucius Institute hosted its 2026 Mid-March Workshop for Mandarin Language Assistants (MLAs), bringing together volunteers from across the wider Auckland region for three and a half days of learning, reflection, and connection.

The programme combined practical teaching insights with collaborative activities. Sessions focused on classroom experience, with MLAs reflecting on their school placements and sharing ideas for strengthening their teaching. A session led by Tantan Xu (Glendowie College) offered a valuable secondary school perspective, followed by group discussions and presentations that encouraged peer learning and professional growth.

A highlight of the workshop was the outdoor team-building day in Puhoi Village. The group visited the Puhoi Historical Museum to learn about the early Bohemian settlers, enjoyed lunch at the historic Puhoi Pub, and then took part in a kayaking activity along the Puhoi River. The day provided a memorable opportunity to connect, unwind, and experience a unique part of New Zealand together.

The final morning focused on the broader role of language teachers, exploring core values, the emotional dimensions of teaching, and pathways to becoming a registered teacher in New Zealand.

Overall, the workshop was a meaningful and enriching experience, equipping MLAs with new insights, practical strategies, and a renewed sense of purpose.

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