China International Leadership Programme | Europe—China Delegate Track
3 Months
3 Months
The Europe–China Delegate Track was created as the perfect starting point for learners who want to experience China through both structured study and real-world immersion. This 3-month journey follows a blended learning model, combining online preparation modules with guided, in-country language and cultural experiences.
The programme grew from a simple idea: to help learners step into China not as tourists, but as active participants in everyday life. Over the years, we’ve seen how even a short period in China can transform confidence, language ability, and global awareness. That is why this track blends expert-led Mandarin lessons with authentic interactions—such as exchanges with local families, cultural activities, and daily practice in real Chinese environments.
By studying before departure and then living the experience on arrival, participants gain a stronger, more meaningful understanding of China’s language, people, and culture. This track forms the foundation for deeper cultural competence and opens the door to the longer 6- and 12-month pathways of the China International Leadership Programme.
The China International Leadership Programme is a blended, immersive internship and leadership development initiative coordinated by the Ireland Sino Institute Headquarters in Cork, Ireland, and delivered on the ground in Liaoning Province, China. The programme is hosted in partnership with a locally registered institution in China that is officially recognised by the China Ministry of Education and the China Ministry of Civil Affairs.
Structured across three progressive tracks—
The programme offers participants a unique opportunity to live, work, and study in China while building leadership skills, deepening cultural understanding, and developing strong Mandarin proficiency.
Founded in 2012 by Pat and Chang McCarthy, the Ireland Sino Institute is a non-political organization dedicated to deepening cooperation and mutual understanding between Europe and China. With operations in both regions, the Institute follows a dual-office model:
To be admitted to the programme, applicants must hold an apostilled degree from a recognized university, an apostilled police clearance certificate issued within the last six months, a TEFL or TESOL qualification, and a recommendation letter from a previous employer.
We offer a free introductory module that includes a programme overview document and video. It’s free to sign up, and you can access it here: China International Leadership Programme Free Introductory Module
We also offer an Accelerated Arrival Preparation Session — a once-off advisory module designed to help prospective participants complete key documentation and procedural requirements before entering the main stages of the China International Leadership Programme. This accelerated pathway allows applicants to significantly shorten their preparation timeline, reduce administrative delays, and begin their studies and cultural immersion in China much sooner.
More information is available here:
Accelerated Arrival Preparation Session
If you meet the requirements for your chosen track—whether the Europe–China Delegate, Ambassador for Europe–China Cultural Relations, or Ambassador for Europe–China Relations—it is likely that you will be accepted.
Participating in the free information session will help you determine whether the programme is suitable for you and will better prepare you for both the application process and your journey to China
For any participant who wishes to withdraw from the China International Leadership Programme within the first 8 weeks, we offer a 20% full refund.
Ideal for motivated graduates ready for elite China immersion, the China International Leadership Programme blends intensive Mandarin learning with structured teaching and internship placements, cultural engagement, and guided exploration of iconic Chinese cities. Participants gain real-world experience working with local communities, build influential professional networks, and develop leadership, cross-cultural insight, and confidence. With personalised support from teams in Europe and China, this transformative programme accelerates global career potential and lifelong connections.
No, this is not a governmental position, but it will prepare you exceptionally well for future roles in government, international organisations, education, cultural exchange, and global development
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