Palmerston, NT, 19 June 2026 — Bakewell Primary School is proud to announce that Year [insert year level] students Charlotte Cardow and Xavier Vanos have been awarded Third Prize in the 2026 Chinese Bridge Competition for Primary School Students, a prestigious national Mandarin language and cultural proficiency competition. The Chinese Bridge Competition is held annually across Australia and challenges students to demonstrate their Mandarin language skills, cultural knowledge, and performance abilities. This year’s competition saw entries from hundreds of students representing schools nationwide. Under the guidance of Bakewell Primary School’s Mandarin teacher Ms Xin Shi, Charlotte and Xavier dedicated months of preparation to develop their language proficiency and cultural presentations. Their achievement places them among the top-performing students in the country and highlights the strength of language education at Bakewell Primary School. CLTANT congratulated the result as a testament to the students’ commitment and the school’s focus on global learning.“Charlotte and Xavier have represented Bakewell Primary School and the Northern Territory with distinction. Their success reflects not only their talent and hard work, but also the quality of teaching provided by Ms Shi and the support of their families. We are immensely proud of them.” Ms Xin Shi commended both students on their dedication.Charlotte and Xavier embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and respect for the language and culture. To achieve Third Prize at a national level is an outstanding result, and CLTANT as well as the fellow Chinese language teachers hope it inspires other students to continue their Mandarin studies. The Chinese Bridge Competition aims to promote cultural exchange and encourage young Australians to engage with Chinese language and culture. Bakewell Primary School continues to strengthen its Languages program as part of its commitment to developing globally aware and confident learners.

DARWIN — CLTANT’s second Professional Development session for 2026 was held on Sunday morning, 7 June, 2026, with members gathering at Charles Darwin University for a hands-on straw weaving workshop. Hosted at the Confucius Institute, Orange 2 Level 4, Casuarina Campus from 9am to 12pm, the members-only workshop was presented by Miao Sun and Jing Yu. The session, Straw Weaving Craft, gave local Chinese language teachers a chance to experience one of China’s traditional fingertip arts firsthand and consider how to bring it into their own classrooms. Why straw weaving matters for language teachers Straw weaving is listed as Chinese intangible cultural heritage, and for teachers it’s a genuinely useful classroom tool. It’s tactile, visual and culturally rich — ideal for getting students off screens and learning language through making. For NT teachers, where hands-on learning and connection to Country are part of everyday practice, the craft struck a chord. The activity naturally generated vocabulary around materials, colours, shapes and sequential instructions, while also opening up deeper cultural discussion around 传承 chuánchéng — cultural transmission — and 工匠精神 gōngjiàng jīngshén — craftsmanship. Miao and Jing demonstrated core weaving techniques and then linked the practice back to pedagogy: scaffolding instructions in Chinese, using craft for storytelling and character recognition, and using a simple woven piece to talk about sustainability, regional craft traditions, and cross-cultural making. No experience was needed. Members left with their own woven piece to take home, plus practical ideas they can trial with students. The PD was free for CLTANT members, with all materials and refreshments provided by CLTANT. Tea and a yarn to finish After Miao and Jing finished their presentation, the morning continued with a relaxed tea party. Members stayed on for a cuppa, compared their weavings, swapped classroom stories and kept the professional conversation going in a more informal setting. CLTANT thanks Miao Sun and Jing Yu for their generous sharing, and CDU Confucius Institute for hosting. Event snapshot What: CLTANT 2026 2nd PD: Straw Weaving Craft Workshop When: Sunday 7 June 2026, 9:00am – 12:00pm Where: Charles Darwin University, Casuarina Campus, Orange 2 Level 4, Confucius Institute Who: CLTANT members only Cost: Free, materials and refreshments included for CLTANT members

In a significant initiative to strengthen cross-regional collaboration and advance the quality of Chinese language education in Australia, the Chinese Language Teachers’ Association of the Northern Territory (CLTANT) recently organised a professional exchange visit to Melbourne. Representing the Northern Territory were Mr Jian Wu, Chairperson of CLTANT based in Darwin, and Mr Jinyi Wu, Secretary of the Association. The visit centred around an in-depth observation and exchange programme with the renowned JNU Melbourne Chinese Language and Culture School (暨华语言文化学校), a leading community-based Chinese language institution located in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs—widely recognised as one of the most competitive hubs for Chinese language education in Australia. Exploring Excellence in Victoria’s Chinese Language Education Sector Victoria, particularly Melbourne’s eastern region, has long been regarded as a national leader in community language education. With its well-developed infrastructure, robust curriculum frameworks, and highly experienced teaching workforce, the region provides a rich landscape for pedagogical innovation and excellence in Chinese language teaching. Against this backdrop, the CLTANT delegation’s visit was both timely and purposeful. Over the course of the visit, Mr Jian Wu and Mr Jinyi Wu engaged in classroom observations, teacher discussions, and strategic dialogue with school leadership, aiming to draw valuable insights that could be adapted and implemented within the Northern Territory context. A Distinguished Leader: Principal Ms Xiumei Li At the heart of JNU Melbourne Chinese Language and Culture School is its highly respected principal, Ms Xiumei Li, whose distinguished career and unwavering dedication have significantly shaped Chinese education in Melbourne. Ms Li is a graduate of Jinan University (暨南大学)—one of China’s most prestigious institutions, particularly renowned for its focus on overseas Chinese education. Following her graduation, she remained at the university as a lecturer, laying a strong academic foundation for her future career. In 1993, Ms Li migrated to Australia, where she has since devoted over three decades to Chinese language education. Her journey reflects not only professional excellence but also a profound commitment to community service and cultural transmission. She previously served as Principal of the well-known Xin Jin Shan Chinese School, Southeast Campus (Nazareth College), for 14 years. During her tenure, she earned widespread recognition, including the “Teaching Excellence Award”, and led her teaching team to achieve outstanding reputations both within the school and across the broader educational community. Building a Leading Community Language Institution Driven by a vision to create a high-quality, inclusive Chinese language learning environment, Ms Li co-founded the JNU Melbourne Chinese Language and Culture School together with alumni from Jinan University. Supported by its parent institution, the school has rapidly developed into a modern, professional, and well-structured organisation. Today, the school operates as a non-profit, non-religious community language school registered under Australian law. It offers a comprehensive educational pathway, including: Early childhood and preschool programmes Primary and secondary levels (Years 1–10) VCE Chinese Second Language VCE Chinese Second Language Advanced VCE Chinese First Language With two campuses and nearly 300 enrolled students, the school has demonstrated strong growth and continues to expand its reach within the community. Its curriculum emphasises Mandarin pronunciation (Hanyu Pinyin), standard Mandarin, and simplified Chinese characters, primarily using the Jinan University “Chinese” textbook series. Teaching is delivered by experienced educators who incorporate multimedia tools and differentiated instruction to maximise student engagement and learning outcomes. A Holistic Approach to Education and Community Engagement Beyond academic success, Ms Li is deeply committed to community development and cultural preservation. She has played a pivotal role in establishing several influential organisations, including: Casey Friendship Association Casey Chorus Casey Qipao Club Her leadership also led to the creation of the Neighbourhood Watch and Aid Group, which provides vital support to local residents and fosters mutual assistance within the community. Under her direction, numerous large-scale cultural events—such as “Splendid Moonlight”, “Lantern Festival Reunion”, “Love in the Mid-Autumn Festival”, and “Respect for the Elderly Gala”—have been successfully organised, earning widespread acclaim and strengthening community cohesion. In addition, Ms Li holds multiple leadership roles, including: Honorary President, JNU Alumni Association (Melbourne) President, Casey Friendship Association Supervisor, Victorian Chinese Federation Director, Victorian Chinese Women’s Association Her enduring passion for Chinese language education and cultural promotion has made her a highly respected figure across both educational and community sectors. Classroom Observations: From Primary to VCE During the visit, the CLTANT delegation engaged extensively with teachers across different year levels, gaining firsthand insights into classroom practices spanning from early childhood education to senior secondary VCE programmes. Primary Classroom Experience One of the highlights was a visit to a Year 4 class taught by Ms Ni. The lesson demonstrated a remarkable alignment with teaching materials commonly used in mainland China, showcasing how students in Australia can engage with Chinese language texts at a level comparable to their peers overseas. The classroom atmosphere was vibrant and interactive. Students actively participated in discussions, storytelling, and structured exercises, reflecting a high level of engagement and enthusiasm. Teaching strategies incorporated story-based learning, interactive questioning, and differentiated instruction tailored to individual abilities. This experience prompted reflection among the visiting educators on how Australian curriculum frameworks could be more closely integrated with classical and contemporary Chinese texts to enrich language learning. Senior Secondary Teaching: Flexibility and Expertise The delegation also observed a VCE Chinese class led by Mr Du, an experienced teacher known for his expertise in handling diverse learner needs. Operating within a co-stream teaching model, Mr Du effectively adapted lesson content and assessment strategies to accommodate students with varying proficiency levels. His approach demonstrated strong pedagogical flexibility, targeted skill development (listening, speaking, reading, writing), strategic preparation aligned with VCE examination requirements. This differentiated approach highlighted the importance of personalised learning pathways in achieving optimal student outcomes. Beyond Language: A Full-Day Educational Experience JNU Melbourne Chinese Language and Culture School offers an extended programme that goes beyond language instruction. In the afternoons, students participate in a variety of enrichment activities, including: Visual arts Mathematics support EAL/D (English as an Additional Language/Dialect) assistance The CLTANT representatives had the opportunity to interact with newly arrived EAL/D students. Through these conversations, they explored the challenges faced by migrant students adjusting to life in Australia—not only in metropolitan areas like Melbourne but also in more remote regions such as Darwin. These discussions provided valuable insights into students’ emotional experiences, cultural adjustments, and educational needs, reinforcing the importance of holistic support systems for newly arrived learners. A Meaningful Dialogue with Principal Li A central component of the visit was an in-depth dialogue between the CLTANT delegation and Ms Li. This exchange significantly deepened mutual understanding of Chinese language education across different Australian contexts. With over 30 years of experience, Ms Li shared her perspectives on: Community language school governance Volunteer engagement and management Building sustainable educational programmes Strengthening ties between schools and local communities The conversation was both intellectually enriching and personally inspiring. In the words of the delegation, the exchange felt akin to “finding kindred spirits”—a meeting of minds united by a shared passion for education and cultural preservation. Strengthening Connections Between Regions The visit highlighted the strong potential for collaboration between the Northern Territory and Victoria. Despite differences in scale and resources, both regions face similar challenges and opportunities in Chinese language education. Key takeaways included: The value of cross-regional knowledge sharing The importance of community involvement The role of cultural education in supporting migrant integration Mr Jian Wu also held informal discussions with teaching staff, gaining a deeper appreciation of the role community language schools play—not only for students but also for teachers themselves. For many educators, these schools are an integral part of their lives and identities. Looking Ahead The CLTANT delegation’s visit to JNU Melbourne Chinese Language and Culture School represents a significant step towards fostering stronger connections between Chinese language educators across Australia. By learning from leading institutions such as JNU Melbourne and engaging with experienced leaders like Ms Xiumei Li, CLTANT aims to bring renewed insights and strategies back to the Northern Territory, contributing to the continued growth and development of Chinese language education nationwide. For more information about JNU Melbourne Chinese Language and Culture School, please visit: https://www.jnu.vic.edu.au/

On 31 May 2026, the Chinese Language Teachers’ Association of the Northern Territory (CLTANT) was honoured to attend the 24th anniversary celebration of the Zee Cheng Khor Moral Uplifting Society (ZCK) in Melbourne, with Chairperson Mr Jian Wu and Secretary Mr Jinyi Wu representing the Northern Territory Chinese education community at this significant multicultural gathering. Established in 2002, ZCK is the Melbourne chapter of De Jiao, or the “Teaching of Virtues,” an organisation dedicated to promoting moral education, intercultural understanding, and world harmony through its guiding philosophy grounded in the De Jiao Xin Dian. Its enduring mission is encapsulated in its powerful guiding principle: “Rejoice in the success of others. For it prevents resentment and imparts hatred against others, leading to a more harmonious society.” This philosophy is not only aspirational but deeply embedded in the organisation’s wide-ranging activities, all of which contribute to strengthening social cohesion in Australia’s diverse multicultural landscape. The anniversary celebration provided a vivid and inspiring example of multiculturalism in action. Representatives from a wide spectrum of Chinese community organisations, as well as leaders from other ethnic and cultural groups, gathered together in a shared spirit of unity, mutual respect, and celebration. The presence of the President of the Melbourne Chinese Federation highlighted the strength and interconnectedness of Chinese associations across Victoria, while the diversity of attendees—from different linguistic, cultural, and faith backgrounds—demonstrated how events such as this transcend individual community identities to foster broader intercultural dialogue. The seamless interaction between these groups illustrated that multiculturalism in Australia is not merely symbolic but actively lived through meaningful engagement and collaboration. Throughout the evening, a series of speeches and cultural presentations created an atmosphere that was both celebratory and deeply reflective. The Deputy Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne delivered an address that resonated strongly with the audience, emphasising the importance of cultural exchange, moral development, and the strengthening of ties between communities. Her speech, alongside those of various community leaders, captivated attendees and underscored shared values such as harmony, respect, and collective responsibility. These speeches were not only ceremonial but carried strong emotional and intellectual impact, leaving a lasting impression on all present. In addition, the CLTANT delegation had the valuable opportunity to meet and engage in meaningful discussions with the President of the Melbourne Chinese Federation. This exchange provided an important platform for sharing perspectives on community development, cultural engagement, and the role of Chinese organisations within Australia’s broader multicultural framework. ZCK’s long-standing commitment to community engagement was also evident through its extensive program of activities, which extend well beyond anniversary celebrations. Initiatives such as the Young Virtuous Person School Holiday Program aim to instil ethical values in younger generations, while events like Multicultural Christmas, Chinese New Year celebrations, and Lanterns for All bring together people from diverse backgrounds in shared cultural experiences. Participation in Cultural Diversity Week and World Interfaith Week reflects the organisation’s dedication to fostering dialogue across cultures and faiths, while regular activities such as Tai Chi sessions and Eco Enzyme workshops promote wellbeing and environmental awareness within the community. These ongoing programs illustrate how ZCK’s philosophy is translated into practice, building sustained connections and nurturing a sense of belonging across cultural boundaries. For the CLTANT delegation, the celebration was not only an opportunity to observe but also to engage actively with community leaders and representatives from various organisations. Mr Jian Wu took the initiative to connect with attendees from different cultural and organisational backgrounds, exchanging ideas on community building, education, and cultural collaboration. These conversations reinforced the importance of establishing strong networks between organisations and highlighted the role that community events play in fostering trust, understanding, and cooperation across diverse groups. The engagement extended beyond formal introductions, developing into meaningful discussions on how similar initiatives could be adapted and implemented in the Northern Territory. The experience provided valuable insights for CLTANT, particularly in understanding how multicultural events can serve as effective platforms for strengthening community cohesion. The diversity seen at the ZCK celebration demonstrated that when different organisations come together with a shared vision, they can create a vibrant and inclusive environment that benefits all members of society. This model of collaboration is especially relevant for regions like Darwin, where multicultural communities are growing and where there is significant potential to further develop interconnected community networks. Mr Jian Wu reflected that the event offered a compelling example of how Chinese community organisations can play a broader role within Australia’s multicultural framework, not only preserving cultural heritage but also actively contributing to social harmony. He expressed a strong intention to bring these experiences back to Darwin, exploring ways to build stronger partnerships between local organisations and to cultivate a more dynamic and inclusive multicultural environment. Similarly, Mr Jinyi Wu emphasised that such events highlight the importance of community organisations as spaces of belonging, learning, and mutual support, particularly for new migrants adjusting to life in Australia. The 24th anniversary celebration of ZCK ultimately showcased the transformative power of diversity, demonstrating that cultural differences, when embraced and celebrated, can become a source of strength and unity. For CLTANT, the visit was both inspiring and instructive, reinforcing its commitment to promoting intercultural understanding and collaboration within the Northern Territory. By drawing on the successful practices and philosophies exemplified by ZCK, CLTANT aims to contribute to the ongoing development of a more connected, inclusive, and harmonious multicultural society in Australia.

Darwin, NT — Late May 2026 Young Chinese language learners from across northern and western Australia took centre stage in late May as the overseas preliminary round of the “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition for primary school students was successfully held in Darwin organised by CLTANT. The event brought together participants from the Northern Territory, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory. This year’s competition carried added significance, marking the 25th anniversary of the globally recognised “Chinese Bridge” program. Organisers extended their warm congratulations on the milestone, highlighting the competition’s long-standing role in encouraging Chinese language learning and strengthening cultural ties between Australia and China. Among those featured in the event were Uy Tien Giang from Charles Darwin University and two students from Bakewell Primary School. Their confident performances and enthusiasm for Mandarin reflected the growing interest in Chinese language education among Australian students. Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian also marked the occasion with a video message, congratulating the program on its 25th anniversary and reaffirming continued support for its development. Ambassador Xiao said the Chinese Embassy in Australia would keep building on the success of “Chinese Bridge” by organising a wide range of Chinese language and cultural activities. He described the initiative as an important platform connecting people from both countries — “a bridge of language, a bridge of friendship and a bridge of hearts”. Several Australian contestants also shared their experiences in a video segment, reflecting on how the competition has helped them improve their language skills, deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, and broaden their global outlook. Since its launch 25 years ago, more than 240 Australian participants have travelled to China to compete in the global finals. The program has played a meaningful role in promoting people-to-people exchange and mutual understanding between the two nations. This year’s regional preliminary once again demonstrated the strong commitment of educators and students alike, as well as the continued relevance of Chinese language learning in Australia’s multicultural landscape. The event has also attracted media attention, including coverage by People’s Daily Online, further underscoring its importance in fostering educational and cultural engagement between Australia and China. As “Chinese Bridge” celebrates its 25th anniversary, organisers expressed confidence that the program will continue to inspire young learners and strengthen connections between the two countries for years to come.

The Chinese Language Teachers' Association of NT (CLTANT) has announced that entries are now open for the 2026 Chinese Bridge Chinese Proficiency Competition for Primary School Students in the ACT, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. The Chinese Bridge, or 汉语桥, is a prestigious international Mandarin competition celebrating students’ language skills and cultural talents. This year’s theme is “快乐中文 – Chinese, Joy and Fun!”, which invites young learners to share their passion for Chinese through speaking and performance. Who can enter Students aged 6–12 are eligible to participate. What to submit Entrants must submit a 3-minute video featuring: Approx. 1 minute of Mandarin speaking A 1–2 minute Chinese cultural performance — such as song, dance, calligraphy, or martial arts Prizes and progression Outstanding participants will receive certificates and prizes. The overall winner will have the opportunity to advance to the global final. Key dates Entry deadline: 29 May 2026 Results announced: 22 May 2026 How to enter Registration and declaration forms are available from CLTANT. Completed forms and video submissions should be sent to cltant.australia@gmail.com. CLTANT warmly encourages schools and teachers to share this opportunity and support students in taking part in this international event.

Darwin, 17 May 2026 — CLTANT hosted a community education exchange this morning at the Darwin Chinese Museum, bringing together teachers, student educators, and aspiring Chinese language teachers from across the region. The event was led by CLTANT President Jian Wu and Treasurer Hua Tong. The group departed from the Darwin Chinese Museum at 11:00am for a morning of professional sharing and community connection. New faces, shared conversations Alongside newly arrived Chinese teachers in the Northern Territory and local Darwin Chinese teachers, CLTANT extended a warm invitation to community members who are not yet Association members but are interested in becoming Chinese teachers. Students from Charles Darwin University’s secondary education, primary education, and early childhood education programs also joined the event. Following a guided tour of the museum, which highlights the 150-year history of Chinese contributions to Northern Australia, attendees took part in a free coffee catch-up. The relaxed setting encouraged open discussion about life in Darwin, classroom experiences, and what it means to become a teacher today. From cultural roots to classroom practice Conversations covered curriculum ideas, cross-cultural teaching, and the realities of working with diverse student backgrounds. New teachers shared the challenges of adapting to NT schools, while local teachers offered practical tips from years in the classroom. CDU students spoke about their hopes and questions as future educators. One CDU early childhood student said: “I always thought teaching Chinese was just about language. After today, I see it’s also about helping kids understand their identity. I feel more inspired about the kind of teacher I want to be.” Building a stronger network CLTANT noted that the Association aims to be a bridge for all educators, regardless of experience. Whether you’re new to the Territory, a local teacher, or a CDU student thinking about your first prac, we want you to have a network to turn to. President Jian Wu added: “By bringing together the museum, the university, and our teaching community, we’re breaking down barriers. Teaching skills are passed on, but so is passion. We hope to run more of these open, grassroots events.” The event received positive feedback from CDU’s Chinese student community, with several students expressing interest in joining CLTANT’s upcoming classroom observations and lesson planning workshops. Supporting national goals locally The initiative reflects key aims of Australia’s Better and Fairer Schools Agreement 2025–2034, particularly around teacher induction, retention, and inclusive education. Through partnerships between migrant teachers, local educators, and future teachers, CLTANT continues to build a sustainable and culturally responsive Chinese language teaching community in the Northern Territory.

The Chinese Language Teachers Association of the Northern Territory (CLTANT) marked 2025 as a year of meaningful growth, community engagement and strengthened collaboration with Charles Darwin University’s Confucius Institute. Through a series of language programmes and cultural activities, the association continued to expand the reach and impact of Chinese education across the Northern Territory. Throughout the year, CLTANT delivered initiatives that supported learners at different stages of their Chinese language journey. The Travel Chinese for Beginners programme introduced first‑time learners to essential Mandarin expressions used in travel and business settings. With an emphasis on practical communication and cultural awareness, the course enabled participants to gain confidence in navigating real‑world interactions. For learners with foundational knowledge of Chinese, the Chinese Language Speaking Course offered a structured pathway to improve fluency and communicative competence. Led by CLTANT President Jian Wu, the course adopted a thematic and interactive approach, encouraging participants to express themselves more naturally and effectively. Held at CDU’s Casuarina campus, the programme became a key platform for adult Chinese language learning in the region. Beyond language instruction, CLTANT also enriched the cultural landscape of the Northern Territory through hands‑on workshops and wellbeing‑focused activities. The Handmade Grass Weaving Workshop introduced participants to grass weaving inspired by Dongshan traditions, while also highlighting connections with Indigenous weaving practices. This cross‑cultural artistic experience provided a calm and reflective environment for community members to explore creativity and heritage. In addition, the association supported the delivery of Tai Chi classes taught by Treasurer Alix Chen in collaboration with Yanli Liu from the Confucius Institute. The sessions, featuring Ba Duan Jin and Ba Fa Wu Bu, welcomed participants of all ages and experience levels. Through gentle movement and mindful breathing, the classes promoted physical wellbeing, stress relief and a deeper appreciation of Chinese health philosophy. Across all initiatives, CLTANT continued to serve as a bridge between educators, learners and the wider community. The association’s work in 2025 strengthened professional connections, broadened access to high‑quality Chinese language education and fostered greater intercultural understanding within the Northern Territory. As CLTANT looks ahead, it remains committed to supporting teachers, empowering learners and enriching the multicultural fabric of the region through sustained educational and cultural engagement.

The first CLTANT Professional Development (PD) workshop of 2026 was triumphantly conducted on 29 March 2026 at the Confucius Institute, Charles Darwin University. This eagerly awaited event united Chinese language teachers from across the Northern Territory for an enriching and practice-oriented program, emphasising the integration of traditional Chinese cultural activities into modern language classrooms. The workshop aimed to provide teachers with concrete, hands-on strategies for enhancing student engagement through culturally immersive learning experiences. By combining traditional Chinese handicrafts with pedagogical theory and classroom-ready applications, the session offered meaningful support for teachers seeking to strengthen both linguistic and cultural outcomes for their students. The first part of the workshop was led by Sun Miao, a Chinese language teacher currently teaching at a Confucius Institute in China. Drawing on her extensive teaching experience, Sun introduced a wide range of innovative ideas for designing culturally embedded classroom activities. Her presentation centred on traditional Chinese straw weaving, covering both the cultural background and the pedagogical value of incorporating such manual arts into Chinese language instruction. Through a balance of theory and practice, Ms Sun demonstrated how straw weaving activities could be adapted for different age groups and proficiency levels, making abstract cultural concepts tangible and accessible to learners. Throughout this session, teachers were encouraged to engage in open discussion, exchanging ideas and reflecting on how similar activities might be implemented in their own classrooms. The workshop atmosphere fostered collaborative exploration, allowing participants to examine case studies, share classroom experiences, and consider how traditional cultural practices could be aligned with curriculum requirements in the Australian education context. Following this session, teachers from the Confucius Institute, together with the presidents of local Chinese language teacher associations, engaged in thoughtful and forward-looking discussions. These conversations focused on the feasibility of developing structured professional training programmes centred on traditional Chinese handicrafts, such as straw weaving and other forms of manual art. Participants explored the possibility of offering future workshops that would equip teachers with the necessary skills to deliver these activities with confidence, ultimately enabling them to bring authentic, hands-on cultural learning experiences to primary and secondary students across the Northern Territory. The second part of the workshop was delivered by Jing Weng, a highly respected educator with a long-standing history of teaching Chinese in the Northern Territory. Wen presented an engaging and highly practical workshop on the use of Chinese paper cutting as a tool for stimulating student interest and motivation in learning Chinese. Her session demonstrated how this traditional art form can be effectively integrated into language lessons to support vocabulary acquisition, cultural awareness, and learner engagement. Through guided practice and clear classroom examples, Ms Weng illustrated how paper cutting activities can be scaffolded for students at different learning stages, from primary through to lower secondary and senior secondary levels. Participants responded with great enthusiasm, actively engaging in the hands-on component and producing intricate and technically challenging paper-cut designs by the end of the workshop. For many language teachers, developing a deep understanding of Chinese traditional culture requires sustained learning and ongoing professional support. Workshops such as this play a vital role in supporting teachers on that journey. By offering experiential learning opportunities, the CLTANT PD workshop enabled teachers not only to acquire new skills, but also to reflect critically on how cultural activities can be meaningfully embedded into language teaching and learning. The workshop concluded with a lively sharing session, during which teachers exchanged reflections and proposed ideas for future cultural activities they hoped could be implemented in Northern Territory classrooms. Many participants expressed a strong desire to apply what they had learned, viewing hands-on cultural activities as an effective way to engage Australian students and foster deeper appreciation for Chinese language and culture. This approach, aligned with students’ preference for interactive and experiential learning, was widely recognised as a powerful means of enhancing both cultural understanding and language acquisition. The successful delivery of the CLTANT 2026 first Professional Development workshop highlighted the ongoing commitment of the Confucius Institute at Charles Darwin University and the CLTANT community to supporting high-quality Chinese language education in the Northern Territory. Organisers expressed strong anticipation for future workshops and warmly encouraged more teachers to participate in upcoming professional development activities, continuing to build a vibrant, collaborative, and culturally rich teaching community.

On 22 February 2026, Chairperson Jian Wu led a professional discussion forum for Chinese language educators in the Northern Territory, followed by a guided visit to the Northern Territory Chinese Museum. The event brought together newly arrived teachers from China and local NT practitioners, offering a structured platform for professional exchange and community engagement. During the forum, participants engaged in focused discussions on curriculum design, instructional methodology, cross-cultural teaching considerations, and the unique opportunities and challenges of delivering Chinese language education in the Northern Territory. The session enabled teachers to share evidence-informed practices, reflect on their professional experiences, and collectively explore strategies for strengthening learning outcomes across diverse school contexts. The subsequent museum visit provided educators with historical and cultural grounding in the long-standing contributions of Chinese communities to Northern Australia. Through its archival materials and cultural exhibitions, the museum offered valuable insights into the social significance of Chinese language education and its deep-rooted connections with local community development. This initiative aligns strongly with the goals of Australia’s Better and Fairer Schools Agreement (2025–2034), which places emphasis on equity, inclusion, and high-quality learning opportunities for all students. By fostering collaboration between migrant and local educators, the Association actively supports a more inclusive and culturally responsive national education landscape. Moreover, the forum directly contributes to national priorities relating to teacher induction, retention, and ongoing professional development. The exchange of both pedagogical expertise and practical experiences supports new teachers in adapting to the NT environment, while also laying the foundation for a sustainable, intergenerational network of Chinese language educators. This emerging professional community exemplifies the “passing the torch” ethos that strengthens continuity and resilience in Australia’s multicultural education systems. In essence, the professional forum and museum visit served not merely as a gathering, but as a purposeful demonstration of how grassroots professional initiatives can complement national education reforms, enhance intercultural understanding, and contribute to a robust and enduring community of practice across Northern Australia.

On 7 December 2025, Vice President Weng of the Northern Australia Chinese Teachers Association organised a special visit to the CDU Chinese Garden for Chinese language teachers in the Northern Territory. The event brought together newly arrived teachers from China and local NT educators for a joyful community celebration. Teachers shared teaching practices and life experiences, offering mutual support and building stronger bonds. The gathering not only provided practical help but also marked the beginning of an intergenerational network of Chinese language teachers—passing on knowledge and strengthening community ties across Australia. The event was both a cultural celebration and a professional exchange, where teachers shared insights on pedagogy, community life, and mutual support. This initiative resonates strongly with Australia’s Better and Fairer Schools Agreement (2025–2034), which emphasises equitable funding and opportunities for all students. By fostering collaboration between new migrant teachers and local educators, the Association is contributing to the national goal of building a fairer education system that values diversity and inclusivity. Moreover, the exchange reflects broader national priorities such as investing in teacher retention and professional development. Sharing both teaching practices and personal life experiences provided practical help for teachers adapting to the Northern Territory context, while also laying the groundwork for an intergenerational network of Chinese language educators. This network embodies the spirit of “passing the torch” from one generation to the next, ensuring continuity and resilience in Australia’s multicultural education landscape. In essence, the CDU Chinese Garden gathering was more than a social event—it was a living example of how grassroots teacher initiatives can complement national education reforms, strengthen intercultural understanding, and build sustainable communities of practice across Australia.

Chairperson Jian Wu Visits Victoria, Engages with Young Teachers and Launches New Support, and Story Collection Initiatives. On 6 December 2025, CLTANT's Chairperson Jian Wu, together with Secretary Jinyi Wu, visited a community centre in Melbourne to meet with more than thirty young teachers of Chinese heritage from Victoria and across Australia. The event aimed to strengthen interstate connections among Chinese teachers, explore the role of education in cross-disciplinary contexts, and introduce new initiatives for teacher support and story collection. As the only participant travelling from interstate, Jian Wu actively joined the discussions and exchanges with young teachers. He engaged with educators from diverse fields—including English, humanities, and other subject areas—highlighting the importance of Chinese language education in multidisciplinary teaching environments. The dialogue also revisited challenges faced by teachers of Chinese heritage in Australia, echoing themes from the Association’s 2023 professional development conference, and sparking thoughtful reflection among participants. Jian Wu emphasised that the passion and dedication of young teachers resonate strongly with the inspiring stories of educators working in remote regions. In response, the Association announced a new project to collect and share the educational stories of Chinese teachers, Chinese language teachers, and other foreign language educators. These stories will be published on the Association’s website and social media platforms, encouraging the growth of teachers in remote areas, providing them with updates on educational developments, and fostering stronger interstate connections to build a broader and more inclusive teaching community. A highlight of the event was the organisation and leadership of renowned online educator and KOL, Patrick Wang. His efforts made this gathering a pioneering and unprecedented exchange—the most significant of its kind since the sharp rise in young teachers of Chinese heritage after 2019. Patrick’s initiative created a valuable platform for collaboration, marking a milestone in the cohesion and influence of Chinese language educators within Australia’s education landscape. His work laid a solid foundation for future community building and networking among teachers. Looking ahead, Jian Wu expressed his commitment to visiting more language schools in Melbourne and other states, further expanding social and professional networks for Chinese teachers in the Northern Territory. The Association is confident that this exchange will open new possibilities, strengthen collaboration, and promote the flourishing of Chinese language education in Australia’s multicultural environment.