November was an exciting month at Wellington College Hangzhou as we welcomed the arrival of the extraordinary 'Big Gold Box' into our community. This phenomenal initiative, which has been successfully introduced multiple times by Wellington College in the UK, enriches our educational journey by fostering global connections and cross-cultural understanding.
The Big Gold Box at Wellington College UK
'The Big Gold Box', created by Shared Studios, is not just a physical structure but a gateway to the world. This unique golden cargo container, dimly lit to create an immersive atmosphere, utilises cutting-edge video conferencing technology and floor-to-ceiling screens. It ingeniously bridges distances, making it feel as though participants are seated across from each other in the same room, regardless of their geographical locations. This state-of-the-art setup is a testament to the innovative spirit that Wellington College in the UK continually champions, bringing unparalleled educational experiences to our pupils.
The Big Gold Box at Wellington College Hangzhou
Kathryn Richardson
Master of Wellington College Hangzhou
As a cutting-edge technology, and the only school in China to install the Big Gold Box, this is a flagship initiative within Wellington College Hangzhou's broader strategy of pioneering EdTech. This is the start of our journey to committing to providing pupils with innovative educational experiences that leverage technology to enhance learning outcomes. The future plan is to permanently install the technology on our campus so pupils can daily connect to people around the world, including our Wellington College UK family. This initiative serves as a symbol of the school’s dedication to innovation and excellence in education.
An Immersive Educational Experience
Inside 'The Big Gold Box', pupils experience a thoughtfully curated environment where they engage with global communities, facilitated by Shared Studios. These sessions emphasise respect for differences and encourage active participation, nurturing the seeds of cross-cultural understanding. The immersive setting promotes transformative dialogues, allowing pupils to exchange ideas, broaden perspectives and cultivate empathy. This hands-on, experiential learning approach allows pupils to step outside their comfort zones and engage deeply with people from varied backgrounds and cultures.
During November, our pupils embarked on explorations of significant global issues and universal themes. Topics included human and social rights, the climate crisis, faith and belonging, artistic and cultural expression, and global education. Through these experiences, pupils did not merely learn about these issues theoretically; they engaged with them authentically by connecting with peers and professionals from diverse backgrounds and communities around the world. For instance, a session on the climate crisis may involve direct conversations with activists and experts working on the ground in regions severely impacted by climate change, giving our pupils a real-world perspective that transcends textbook learning.
The Power of Connection
'The Big Gold Box' stands out as a unique tool for global education. Each day, the project features specific themes and connections with various communities, offering pupils a rich tapestry of perspectives. The initiative's immersive dialogues spanned continents.
From Jakarta to Johannesburg, Mexico to Rwanda — transforming our classrooms into portals of global understanding. These interactions provide our pupils with firsthand accounts and diverse viewpoints, fostering a profound sense of interconnectedness.
1
Jakarta, Indonesia - Island nations in the wake of the climate crisis. Meet with youth leaders and professors to discuss the impact of climate change on the island nation of Indonesia and how they are building a new city to withstand future climate related challenges.
2
Johannesburg, South Africa - Sustainable fashion for a more equitable future. Join fashion designers and community leaders in Johannesburg who are countering fast fashion through upcycled design. Learn how to make your own upcycled garments using things from old clothes to paper milk cartons!
3
Mexico City, Mexico - Youth voices in protecting geographies - What can young people do to create a more sustainable climate future? Pupils hear from climate leaders in Brazil and discuss their role in protecting the climate and their communities.
4
Lagos, Nigeria - Colonial Legacies. Meet with professors and community members to discuss the legacies of colonialism in the African nation of Nigeria. How does the colonial past impact people today? What can we learn about how various cultures interact through the process of colonialism and whether these legacies are all bad or have some good in them as well.
This innovative setup fosters a profound sense of interconnectedness. By participating in these deeply immersive experiences, our pupils felt a tangible connection to the global community. This heightened sense of empathy and understanding underscores the belief that it is in embracing our differences that we truly find our shared humanity. Pupils learned that the challenges faced by individuals across the globe are often interconnected, and the solutions to these challenges require a collaborative, empathetic approach.
Reinforcing Our Global Commitment
'The Big Gold Box' was a big hit with pupils at Wellington College in the UK, and it has continued to be well received by pupils at Wellington College Hangzhou, which has long been committed to global education. This initiative strengthens the bond between our campuses and underscores our collective dedication to developing global citizens. Pupils at both campuses benefit from experiences that transcend traditional classroom boundaries, equipping them with the skills and perspectives necessary to navigate an interconnected world.
Cedric Berchtol
Pupil
I would describe the experience of being in The Big Gold Box as educational. It managed to combine learning with enjoyment perfectly, drawing my interest and keeping me engaged throughout. The interactive elements and real-world connections made the educational content more relatable and memorable. I found myself genuinely interested in the subjects we discussed, which helped me absorb and retain more information.
By drawing on the experiences and legacy of Wellington College in the UK, we provide our pupils with invaluable educational opportunities. "The Big Gold Box" enriches their learning journey, shaping not just their academic prowess but also their worldview. It prepares them to address global challenges with empathy, informed perspectives and the ability to collaborate across cultures. The sessions facilitated by Shared Studios within "The Big Gold Box" provide a microcosm of the global village, teaching pupils to appreciate diversity and work harmoniously in a multicultural environment.
The Big Gold Box at Wellington College UK
Beyond the Classroom:
Building Lifelong Skills
'The Big Gold Box' initiative is more than an educational experience; it is a formative process that shapes lifelong skills. The ability to engage in meaningful, respectful dialogue with diverse groups is a crucial competency in today's globalised world. These sessions equip pupils with the communication skills necessary to navigate international collaborations effectively. They learn not just to speak and listen but to understand and respect different viewpoints, fostering a collaborative spirit essential for future leaders.
Andrew Perry
Educational Technology Coach
The Gold Box has already proven to be a fantastic way to excite pupils about learning. By connecting them with people from different cultures, it inspires curiosity and a deeper interest in global issues. It also builds their confidence and helps them see the positive power of technology in learning.
The arrival of 'The Big Gold Box' at Wellington College Hangzhou has been more than a month-long event; it has been a transformative experience that will have a lasting impact on our pupils. It exemplifies innovative education at its finest, where technology and immersive experiences come together to build a community of globally minded individuals.
This project reinforces our commitment to preparing our pupils for a world that is increasingly interconnected. By facilitating meaningful connections and dialogues, 'The Big Gold Box' helps our pupils develop as empathetic, informed and proactive global citizens. We look forward to continuing this legacy of innovation and connection, inspired by the example set by Wellington College in the UK.
In embracing global challenges and opportunities, our pupils are not just learning about the world; they are shaping it. And in the process, they are discovering the profound truth that our shared humanity is what ultimately binds us together. Through this initiative, we are moulding the leaders of tomorrow who will navigate the complexities of global issues with empathy, wisdom and a commitment to making the world a better place.
