On the luminous evening of September 22, 2023, the Hall of Tie in the early autumn of the Aspiration Building dazzled with bright lights and vibrant hues. The annual welcome banquet of Beijing National Day School commenced with the enchanting Chinese classical dance performed by Liu Yike and Lin Ruiying.

Tonight, the dance steps illuminated the venue, stirring up new energy among the old, middle-aged, and young teachers who gathered, adorned in their finest attire. Hosts Xu Shuo, Wang Shaodong, Guo Donghua, and Han Shuanglong delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for an evening filled with camaraderie and celebration.

Stepping onto the red carpet symbolized embarking on a new journey in life.

The arrival of new teachers on the red carpet has always been a highlight of the cocktail party, making them the most eye-catching stars of the day. Under the spotlight and guided by the subject director, new teachers from various subjects graced the stage one by one.

Adhering to the fine tradition of “passing on mentorship,” the subject director provided a unique introduction and message for each new teacher, brimming with expectations. The photographer skillfully captured every exciting moment as spirited young students transitioned from being on campus to becoming teachers, injecting fresh enthusiasm into the BNDS Family. The short red carpet bore witness to another group of young individuals embracing the mission of education.

The versatile new teachers

The versatile new teachers showcased their talents during the captivating mid-segment performance, elevating the atmosphere of the Hall of Tie with warmth and enthusiasm. Ms. Pan Jieyu’s piano piece “Flower Dance” resonated with a gentle and melodious sound, leaving a lasting impression. Mr. Ding Zhiheng’s powerful rendition of the song “Ten Years a Moment” further fueled our direction forward.

▲ Ms. Pan Jieyu plays the piano

▲Mr. Ding Zhiheng sings a song

“Onboarding congratulatory messages”

An unexpected surprise unfolded in the second half – “onboarding congratulatory messages” from parents in the hometowns of the new teachers. The simple and heartfelt messages brought great surprise and emotion, bridging the distance and creating a touching moment for everyone present.

Principal Tian Jun, the “Chief Service Officer,” shared insights into what makes BNDS teachers truly “BNDS.” They possess not only professional and solid theoretical knowledge but also a serious, rigorous work attitude, a humorous teaching style, and a gentle, patient approach to students. This spirit, he suggested, is both a blessing and an expectation for new teachers.

To showcase the vitality of young teachers, the cocktail party creatively incorporated an interactive activity – the “fate cards.” Each new teacher drew a “fate card” before entering the venue, guiding them to find a fellow teacher. Those who successfully found each other received a small gift, fostering connections and eliminating the sense of unfamiliarity.

As the evening unfolded, good times always seemed fleeting, yet the memories created were eternal. A new starting point, a new dream, a new journey – in appreciating the charm of BNDS together, being a “BNDS” teacher, and understanding the unity of the world, we teach for the unknown and learn for the unknown. Willing to settle and strive, we aim to achieve a better version of ourselves in life and contribute to changing the world through education.