A HAMPSHIRE head teacher is one of more than 100 business leaders accompanying the Prime Minister on a three-day mission to China.

The principal of Brockenhurst College, Di Roberts, is part of a delegation that is visiting Beijing and other cities to promote a proposed EU-China trade agreement.

Mrs Roberts is visiting China in her capacity as a board member of the Association of Colleges and is the only further education representative on the trip. She will demonstrate the college’s experience in partnership working with China as well as illustrating the opportunities for joint working offered by further education.

Mrs Roberts said: “This visit is a tremendous opportunity for us to strengthen our existing links with China.

“Our Confucius Classroom initiative enables students to gain knowledge and understanding of Chinese culture and working practices across areas such as business, law and economics, in addition to learning Mandarin.

“The partnership with our sister college in Chengdu has provided opportunities for students and staff to visit China and learn from each other.

“Our reputation as a provider of world-class education can only be strengthened yet further by this visit and I’m honoured to be a part of it.”

A college spokesman added: “Brockenhurst students benefit from working alongside high-calibre students from across Europe, the Americas, Australia and Asia, who choose to study at the college. This international dimension adds a richness to the student experience. In addition Mandarin has become a popular subject for Brockenhurst students in recent years.”

Speaking shortly after arriving in China Mr Cameron said: “I see China’s rise as an opportunity not just for the people of this country but for Britain and the world.”