What Did BCIS Students Sell at First-Ever PTA Flea Market?

Last Sat, April 21, from 9am to noon, Beijing City International School (BCIS) students and parents participated in the first-ever PTA Ginkgo Tree Flea Market where they hawked their wares to the school community and general public. This new event was championed by the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in a bid to support the spirit of sustainability and provide a platform for students to practice their business skills.

To inaugurate the event, Head of School Tom Schafer handed out personally signed certificates to each student participant at the opening ceremony, thanking them for their green spirit. The BCIS school mascot Lele also made an appearance and went stall to stall for photo opportunities with the kids. Many students took the chance to sell their own pre-loved toys and books, giving the items a fresh lease of life in the hands of a new owner. Some stalls did offer brand new items such as video game trading cards, customisable badges, and greeting cards.

Grade 1 student Yo-yo shared: “I earned over RMB 100 from the flea market! I discovered that as long as I decorate my booth well and have nice goods to sell, customers will come to me to buy them.” Grade 5 student Kimmy had these insights: “Today I accomplished many things. I learned a lot of skills like marketing and advertising.”

PTA President Shu Qi said of the event: “Everybody had so much fun today! The PTA is very happy to see how the kids became business wizards; walking around selling and exchanging their goods. To see their hard work through this real-world experience is exactly our intention for organizing this event in the first place. Thanks again to the kids and all the participating families for their hard work and sweat, in the spirit of BCIS Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle! Go BCIS! Go Green Warriors!”