A YOUNGSTER from Studley has just returned from spending four weeks teaching children English in China.

Michelle Goulding, who is studying Psychology at Birmingham University, spent her holidays volunteering at a summer school in the city of Xi'an.

She had to raise £1,650 for the trip, something she managed with the help of several local businesses including Whitbreads Raise and Match scheme which donated £750.

The children, who were aged between four and eight, were taught through games, activities and songs and at the end of their summer school, they staged a talent contest, having to learn lines for a play and perform songs.

Michelle said: "Although it was hard work, teaching the children was extremely rewarding and by the end of the camp, I had become so attached to them I didn't want to leave."

Other contributions to the trip's funding came from Studley High School, Stratford College, Redditch HSBC, Mr D Atkins from Redditch School of Tae Kwon Do and KV Process Controls Ltd, as well as family members.

Michelle made the most of her visit to China, seeing the nearby world famous terracotta warriors in her spare time.

She added: "I would love to go back and see Beijing and Shanghai. It was absolutely amazing, a once in a lifetime experience."