Family, Culture and Modernity in Chinese cinema: KS3 Mandarin Study Day

Study Day using film to explore themes of family and modern Chinese culture.

The Farewell (2019)
  • Date: 12 February 2026
  • Time: 10:30am to 3:30pm
  • Location: BFI Southbank

Event details

This study day aimed at KS3 Chinese Mandarin is designed to help pupils gain understanding of China’s contemporary culture in an exploration of the nation’s cinema. Drawing on relevant cultural contexts, analysis of Chinese cinema can help to develop students’ awareness of China as a nation today, including topics of family, travel, technology, school and celebrations.

Pupils will be provided the opportunity to explore these themes in depth through textual analysis of key scenes in selected Chinese feature and short films, such as Please Vote for Me (Weijun Chen, 2007) and One Bucket (Jia Zhangke, 2019).

In the afternoon, students will watch a full length screening of a recent Chinese film.

This study day is designed to develop a cultural awareness that will enhance language learning and understanding of Chinese traditions as well as China today.

Booking information

You can book this study day from 1 September 2025.

To book call 020 7849 4451 and pay using a credit/debit card or download, print and return the booking form with cheque or card details. We cannot reserve seats, send invoices or accept BACS payments.

Schools which have over 20% of students receiving free school meals should ask about a discount when booking.

Please book by 4pm, two working days before the event. However, we recommend booking earlier to avoid disappointment.

For any queries, please email schools@bfi.org.uk.

Prices

The study day costs £10.00 per student.

Accompanying teachers / adults are charged £1 per 5 students — otherwise student rate applies.

Teachers attending without students cost £40.