The British Chamber of Commerce Shanghai proudly hosted the 2024 Virgin Atlantic Great British Day Out on 25 May at The British International School Shanghai Puxi.
This year, the event was generously supported by Virgin Atlantic and welcomed nearly 3,000 attendees who enjoyed a vibrant celebration of British culture and international community spirit.
The full-day celebration commenced with perfect weather – mostly cloudy skies and a pleasant breeze throughout the day. As lunchtime approached, a gentle heat added passion and energy to the festivities.
Following the stirring melodies of a Scottish bagpipe performance, Matthew John Burney, CMG, British Consul-General, Shanghai, Kirsten Johnston, Chair of BritCham Shanghai, and Stuart Dunn, Executive Director of BritCham Shanghai, shared their welcome remarks on the stage and underscored the significance in fostering a united community and robust business connections.
Throughout the day, the main stage was the heart of the celebration, featuring a dynamic array of performances and activities, from choir and orchestra performances by students, parents, and teachers at international schools, to live band music, engaging science show and thrilling lucky draw that featured over 180 fantastic prizes.
The Food & Beverage Zone offered a selection of British-inspired foods and beverages. VIP guests were treated to exquisite flavours crafted by Le Cordon Bleu chefs at the exclusive Virgin Atlantic Lounge Area.
Simultaneously, various interactive activities and wellness programmes kept attendees engaged throughout the day. From yoga and fitness sessions to golf and STEM games, as well as luxury transport displays, there was delightful entertainment for all ages.
Another highlight of the event was the F1 in Schools Programme, an initiative by the Chamber to inspire STEM knowledge and future careers. The programme hosted its Final Race during the event, featuring an inter-school miniature Formula Car competition. This initiative was supported by the University of Nottingham Ningbo, China, and Berkeley Group, along with partner F1 in Schools (SQ EDU).
The ITAA: Great British Inter-School Team Tennis Tournament also took place during the day, showcasing young athletic talent and fostering a spirit of friendly competition among the participating schools.
Launched in 2023 by BritCham Shanghai, the Great British Day Out exemplifies the strong ties between the UK and China, offering a wonderful opportunity for businesses and communities to connect and celebrate together.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us, making the day a truly memorable experience for all!
