At Cambridge School of Bucharest, our teachers are at the heart of everything we do, shaping not only academic success but also a strong sense of belonging within our community. In this interview, we speak with Ms Mei, our Native Chinese Language Teacher, who shares her journey at CSB and reflects on what makes being part of our school such a rewarding experience. From meaningful relationships with students to the supportive culture among colleagues, Ms Mei offers a thoughtful insight into life at CSB and the values that guide her work every day.
Q: Why are languages such an important part of CSB?
Languages are at the heart of CSB because they shape who we are and how we connect with the world. At our school, we see languages as more than just academic subjects—they are living expressions of identity, culture, and heritage. By valuing both foreign languages and mother tongues, CSB helps students grow into confident individuals who can celebrate their own roots while also building bridges to other cultures.
Q: What language opportunities are available to students?
Students at CSB have the chance to learn English, French, Spanish, and German, while also continuing their mother tongues such as Romanian, Chinese, Arabic, and Turkish. I find it especially meaningful when my students take pride in speaking Chinese with their families at home and then bring that into the classroom. Learning foreign languages gives them the ability to connect internationally, while developing their mother tongue helps them express themselves authentically and stay close to their roots. It’s a combination that creates truly multilingual, multicultural students.
Q: How do students benefit from learning languages at CSB?
The benefits are both practical and deeply personal. On one hand, learning multiple languages opens doors to international education, careers, and friendships. On the other hand, having their mother tongue recognised and celebrated in school gives students a stronger sense of identity and belonging. This balance prepares them to navigate a multicultural world with confidence and pride in their heritage.
Q: How does the work culture at CSB support language teachers?
The supportive culture at CSB makes it possible for language teachers to thrive. As teachers, we are encouraged to design lessons that celebrate diversity, create space for cultural exchange, and connect languages to students’ personal identities. Collaboration across departments is common.
Q: What makes teaching languages at CSB rewarding?
For me, the most rewarding moments are when students surprise themselves. When a beginner successfully introduces themselves in Chinese or when a child confidently explains something in their mother tongue, I see the pride that goes beyond academics. Those moments remind me that teaching language is not only about grammar and vocabulary—it’s about helping young people find confidence in their identity and joy in connecting with others.
Q: Do you have any advice for teachers looking to work at Cambridge School of Bucharest?
My advice would be: come prepared to celebrate diversity and to see yourself as both a teacher and a cultural guide. At CSB, your role will go beyond teaching language structures —you’ll be helping students connect with their heritage while also introducing them to new cultures.
If you would like to learn more about career opportunities at Cambridge School of Bucharest, we invite you to contact our HR team and discover what it means to be part of our team.