Pupils at Manor Park primary school in Pulrose, Douglas, learned about Chinese culture during a special assembly this week.

It took place to mark Chinese New Year.

They retold the story of how the Chinese name each year using the Zodiac calendar. The children re-enacted the race of the 12 animals.

Headteacher Tuyet Ramzy said ’This year being especially lucky for the Chinese as it’s the year of the rat.

’We very carefully not to say the word R.A.T as we truly respect the Isle of Man belief of bad luck if the word to said in its entirety. We understand the sailors across the island fear these animals.’

She added that pupils had been learning about different cultures.

The pupils recently enjoyed a food festival where the school celebrated different cultures from around the world including Manx culture.

’I believe we should bring the world to the classroom for our children, so that they have a thirst for learning and want to explore and visit the ever growing global world that we live in,’ Mrs Ramzy said.

’This event brought the community together is it was so lovely to see so many parents and children trying different food that they would not usually try. This exciting session certainly got the taste buds going at Manor Park.’