AEA International Day – Connecting Cultures, Creating Friendships

24/09/2025

International Day at AEA

11 september 2025 | ICL Education Centre

On 11 September 2025, Auckland English Academy came alive with colour, music, and flavours as we celebrated AEA International Day – Connecting Cultures, Creating Friendships.

The event, organised by our dedicated teachers and led by Director of Studies Leah Winsley, brought together students from around the world to share and celebrate their unique cultural identities. Grouped by countries and regions, students worked together to proudly represent their cultures through food, traditional attire, decorations, music, and live performances.

The student lounge was transformed into a vibrant stage for a global variety show. Performances ranged from modern Japanese classics to the traditional Chinese folk song Jasmine Flower, accompanied by a beautiful group rendition. A kung fu demonstration drew enthusiastic applause, followed by heartfelt Cantonese songs from our Chinese students. Students from Rapa Nui amazed the audience with a powerful Hōko and graceful ’aparima dance, while fellow Chileans shared the national dance, the Cueca and sang folklore songs.

Our Colombian students lifted the energy with a mash-up of rhythms, from salsa and cumbia to the fast-paced mapalé. A Korean student surprised the audience with an interactive K-pop trivia quiz, while a Brazilian student wowed with capoeira moves. The day closed with smiles and elegance as a group of Thai students performed the traditional Ram Thai.

A group of Japanese students singing a classic Japanese pop song

Teachers’ jury clapping at students’ performances

A group of Chinese students singing the Jasmine Flower song

A Mongolian student chanting a classic Mongolian song

Rapa Nui (Chile) student performing a hoka, a traditional war dance

Rapa Nui students performing traditional ‘aparima dance

After the performances, the celebration continued in classrooms that students had transformed into cultural showcases. Each room featured decorations, traditional themes, and an incredible variety of sweet and savoury dishes. Students shared the stories behind their food, inviting their peers to taste and learn more about their traditions.

The atmosphere throughout the day was filled with laughter, delicious food, music, and friendships that crossed borders and cultures. Events like these remind us of the rich diversity within our school and the importance of celebrating and respecting each other’s heritage.

At AEA, we are proud to create opportunities for our students to share their cultures, build lasting friendships, and learn from one another, fostering a spirit of unity and global connection that extends far beyond the classroom.