Mandarin World Language
Stratford’s Mandarin program is designed to help students build strong language skills, cultural understanding, and confidence in an increasingly connected world. Beginning in early childhood and continuing through high school, students have opportunities to develop Mandarin through immersive, specialty, and enrichment experiences.
Research shows that learning more than one language can strengthen cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, communication, and cultural awareness. At Stratford, Mandarin learning is both rigorous and joyful, giving students meaningful opportunities to listen, speak, read, and write while making connections across language, academics, and culture.
Across our Mandarin pathways, our goals are to build strong communication skills, support growing proficiency and biliteracy, meet Stratford’s high academic expectations, and help students develop curiosity, confidence, and appreciation for other cultures.
Students explore Chinese language, culture, and traditions, developing a broader understanding of the world and respect for others.
Through meaningful interactions and practice, students gain confidence expressing themselves and communicating in Mandarin.
Multilingual children gain a cognitive, academic, and social edge in educational settings and beyond.
Stratford School was selected as a 2025 CLASS Outstanding K–16 Chinese Program Award winner, recognizing excellence in curriculum innovation, student learning, and community engagement.
Mandarin World Language
Stratford’s Mandarin program is designed to help students build strong language skills, cultural understanding, and confidence in an increasingly connected world. Beginning in early childhood and continuing through high school, students have opportunities to develop Mandarin through immersive, specialty, and enrichment experiences.
Research shows that learning more than one language can strengthen cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, communication, and cultural awareness. At Stratford, Mandarin learning is both rigorous and joyful, giving students meaningful opportunities to listen, speak, read, and write while making connections across language, academics, and culture.
Across our Mandarin pathways, our goals are to build strong communication skills, support growing proficiency and biliteracy, meet Stratford’s high academic expectations, and help students develop curiosity, confidence, and appreciation for other cultures.
Students explore Chinese language, culture, and traditions, developing a broader understanding of the world and respect for others.
Through meaningful interactions and practice, students gain confidence expressing themselves and communicating in Mandarin.
Multilingual children gain a cognitive, academic, and social edge in educational settings and beyond.
Stratford School was selected as a 2025 CLASS Outstanding K–16 Chinese Program Award winner, recognizing excellence in curriculum innovation, student learning, and community engagement.
Explore our Mandarin Programs Program and STEAM Curriculum
Elementary Mandarin After-School Program
Stratford’s Mandarin After-School Program gives elementary students additional time to build language skills in a fun, immersive setting while providing families with convenient after-school care.
Students strengthen listening and speaking skills through hands-on activities that bring Chinese language and culture to life. Experiences may include calligraphy, watercolor, dance, traditional games, cooking, and cultural celebrations.
The program also includes homework support, giving students opportunities to make connections between what they are learning in English and Mandarin while continuing to build confidence using the language.
Elementary Mandarin Specialty
Stratford’s Mandarin specialty class introduces elementary students to Mandarin through engaging, twice-weekly instruction during the school day. Students build skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing while learning about Chinese language and culture.
Classes are designed to support students with different levels of Mandarin experience, from beginners to students who already speak or understand some of the language. Heritage and Non-Heritage classes help students build from where they are and continue making progress.
Our goal is to help students develop strong Mandarin language skills, cultural understanding, and confidence in communicating in another language.