[NEW ARRIVALS] Performing Arts Teacher: Annette Atkins

As we continue our series of new YCIS Beijing Arrivals, we spoke with new Performing Arts teacher Annette Atkins about her love of and experience teaching the subject as well as the myriad of benefits the Performing Arts brings to students.

Please introduce yourself.
"My name is Annette Atkins and I’m the new Performing Arts teacher at YCIS Beijing. I’m originally Scottish, although I lived in New Zealand for quite a number of years. I spent much of my teaching career there, teaching there for 26 years. I had the opportunity to come to Beijing in 2014 which I seized and haven’t looked back!"

What are some of your interests outside of school?
"I’m very involved in the Scottish society here in Beijing. I’ve been with the society for a couple of years, helping to organize the Scottish Ball and various events. The Scottish Ball happens at the end of November at the China World Hotel and features a wide variety of Scottish culture. They bring in a band from Scotland and invite to everyone participate in Scottish dance onstage. I organize workshops for free in advance of the ball so that attendees can practice in advance; that way they can dance on the night and not look too silly! Kids tend to love it, so be sure to bring your kids! I’ll be doing a bit of this Scottish dancing with my students this year as well."

To learn more about Annette's life and passion for teaching, please click "read more"!