By Gary Kirk

Students at Chatham Grammar School for Boys will soon have the opportunity to learn Mandarin in a move reflecting changes in the world of business.

The language college is offering a basic course in the Chinese language as an enrichment opportunity, one of several options sixth form students can choose from which happen on Wednesdays.

It is hoped that a weekly club for younger students can also be set up to learn about both the language and culture of China, in acknowledgement of China's growing economic power.

It comes after a trip to China in November 2008 where discussions began between headteachers and a number of sixth form students expressed interest in discovering more.

Pupils at the school study two languages throughout Key Stage 3 and at GCSE level at least one is compulsory.

Director of the Language College, Craig Brown, explains how languages are integrated in to other lessons.

Business-level language courses in several languages like Italian and Russian are also offered in the selection of enrichment activities, one of which is compulsory.

A-level students can volunteer as mentors for those doing GCSEs during their free periods.

The school has been awarded full international status by the British Council in recognition of the work it does.