At Dulwich College International and Dehong schools, education goes far beyond books and classrooms. With students and educators from across the globe, our schools form a connected community—one that embraces diversity, nurtures curiosity, and offers students a truly global learning experience.
From March 24 to 26, Dehong Xi'an proudly hosted the 2025 Worldwise Primary Games, welcoming over 400 young athletes from eight EiM schools worldwide. For three days, our campus became a vibrant arena of athletic spirit, cross-cultural connection, and unforgettable memories.
Running, Jumping, Swimming
– and So Much More
The Games officially opened with a warm welcome from Lily, the Founding Principal of Dehong Xi'an, who greeted guests with heartfelt words:
"Xi'an, a city with over a thousand years of history, served as the starting point of the Silk Road and is renowned for its majestic city walls and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. At the same time, it thrives as a modern hub of technological advancement and international exchange. As a vital member of the Dulwich and Dehong family, DEXA collaborates closely with its sister schools worldwide, sharing exceptional educational resources and fostering an open and inclusive spirit that welcomes every opportunity for exchange and challenge."
Across the event, students gave their all in track and field, swimming, and football. Every race and match was a celebration of effort, resilience, and team spirit. The long jump pit became a launchpad for courage; the running track, a test of perseverance; the swimming pool, a place of precision and strength; and the football pitch, a stage for collaboration and trust.
The energy was electric—cheers rang out, high-fives flew, and smiles were everywhere. These were more than competitions. They were moments of character building, of discovering what it means to try, to support, to achieve.
Friendship Beyond the Finish Line
But what made the Games truly special wasn't just what happened during the events—it was what happened in between.
Students from different cultures and countries connected in ways that transcended language. Whether through shared meals, casual conversations, or simple gestures, they found common ground and made genuine friendships.
"I also had the chance to make new friends from other schools. I befriended students from Dulwich Seoul and Dehong Shanghai. We got to know each other during various competitions, such as swimming meets and athletics contests."
— Student, Dulwich Shanghai
Dehong Xi'an's student volunteers also played a key role, offering support with enthusiasm and kindness. From carrying scorecards to distributing water, they made sure every guest felt welcome.
"I also had the chance to make new friends from other schools. I befriended students from Dulwich Seoul and Dehong Shanghai. We got to know each other during various competitions, such as swimming meets and athletics contests."
— Student volunteer, Dehong Xi'an
Even parents joined in, volunteering and cheering on from the sidelines.
"What impressed me the most about this international sports event was not only the competition itself but also the cultural exchange it brought. Children from different countries connected beyond the matches, building friendships that extended far beyond the playing field."
— Parent volunteer
Sport as a Cornerstone
of Our Education
At EiM, we believe that physical education is an essential part of every child’s development. Through sport, students build not only strength and coordination, but also confidence, perseverance, and empathy.
Every detail of the Worldwise Primary Games—from planning and logistics to coaching and safety—was designed to support this vision.
"For nearly a year, we have been preparing for this sports meet," said Colby Knapp, Head of Physical Education and Sport at Dehong Xi'an. "Our faculty and students meticulously prepared for this grand event. From professional venue setups to comprehensive competition logistics, every detail was fine-tuned to provide athletes with an optimal experience. Our academic and operations teams worked closely together while maintaining continuous communication with other schools to ensure they were fully prepared."
This spring, in one of China's most historic cities, we witnessed how sport can shape character, inspire joy, and bring people together across borders.
On the track and in the pool, children discovered their strength. Off the field, they found friendship. That spirit of connection is at the heart of the EiM community—and the legacy of the 2025 Worldwise Primary Games.
We'll see you again at the next games in 2026. Until then, keep playing, keep growing, and keep connecting.
