While the prime minister led a trade delegation to China, a sixth form centre in Tottenham welcomed its own group of visitors from the world’s most populated country.

Haringey Sixth Form Centre, in White Hart Lane, hosted a delegation of Chinese youth leaders during their visit to London this week.

They were part of the powerful All-China Youth Federation, whose members have produced six of the last eight of the country's presidents.

The centre was the group’s only education destination in the capital and after being welcomed by principal June Jarrett they were given a tour of the sixth form.

They met staff, students and even dropped in on a genetics lesson.

A spokesman for the delegates said they were “touched by the values and concepts” demonstrated by the work of the centre.

She added that they believed there was “so much we can learn from the British education system”.

The trip was organised by the British Council.