The fact that the first World Expo took place in London in 1851, and the 2010 World Expo is taking place in Shanghai, China, presents schools from the two countries with an opportunity to work together on a joint Expo and Community project.

Expos have a theme that has significance to people all over the world.  The theme of Shanghai World Expo 2010 is "Better City, Better Life" representing the global ambition for a better life in future urban environments.  This is a big challenge for all of us as our way of living together impacts on our environment.

In 1800 only 2% of the global population lived in cities.  In 1950 this figure had increased to 29% and, according to the United Nations, this year (2010) will see 55% percent of us living in cities.  This places great pressure on all policy makers to ensure that we create urban environments which are suitable and sustainable for the future.

UK schools having Chinese partner schools that intend to make a visit to the Shanghai World Expo 2010 between May and October this year, can use their partner school to be their ‘eyes and ears’ at Expo 2010. The Chinese partner schools can inform them about Expo 2010 and answer any questions they may have on any of the subthemes being tackled by different nations at the event.  The subthemes identified by Shanghai World Expo 2010 are:

• Blending of diverse cultures in the city
• Economic prosperity in the city
• Innovations of science and technology in the city
• Remodelling of communities in the city
• Interactions between urban and rural areas

Both partner schools can also make full use of the Expo 2010 Shanghai website Shanghai Expo Online is a 'Virtual Expo' that provides a very special experience for all staff and students.

The Shanghai World Expo 2010 subthemes may well provide partner schools with a suitable topic for their combined study.  It is important to remember that all projects should link very closely with their own community.