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Mandarin Success Leads to Prestigious Peking University Research Opportunity

7th Jul 2026

We are delighted to celebrate the fantastic achievement of Jerica, who has been successful in her application for the highly competitive IOE/Peking University China Research Internship 2026. Peking University is widely recognised as one of China's leading universities, making this an exceptional opportunity.

Jerica joined Greig City Academy in Year 7 in 2019 and has made the most of every opportunity during her time at the school. Alongside her studies, she is a national-level swimmer with Enfield Swim Squad, where she also works as a swim coach, delivering training sessions to younger swimmers while balancing her own demanding training schedule and academic studies.

During Sixth Form, Jerica studied A-Level Biology, A-Level Textiles, BTEC Sport (Coaching and Development) and continued her Mandarin studies, achieving HSK Level 6, the highest level of the internationally recognised Chinese proficiency qualification.

Jerica has been learning Mandarin at Greig City Academy since Year 7 and has continued to develop her language skills throughout Sixth Form. Her dedication has now led to this remarkable opportunity to join students from across the UK on a 15-day Mandarin Research Internship Programme in China.

The programme will take place in Beijing and Xi'an, with students working alongside researchers and students at Peking University. As part of the internship, participants will visit significant cultural and historical sites, including the Shaanxi History Museum, and carry out collaborative research projects before presenting their findings.

Research themes include:

  • The influence of the Qin and Han civilisations on modern society.
  • How traditional Chinese cuisine can appeal to younger consumers.

This internship will allow Jerica to further develop her Mandarin language skills while gaining valuable experience in international research, teamwork and cultural exchange.

Everyone at Greig City Academy is incredibly proud of Jerica and all she has achieved. Her determination, hard work and positive, can-do attitude have enabled her to take advantage of an outstanding opportunity on the international stage. She is a wonderful role model for our younger students and a brilliant example of what can be achieved through dedication, ambition and perseverance.

Congratulations, Jerica, and we wish you every success as you represent Greig City Academy on this exciting programme in China.