Whole world in our hands

2:30pm Friday 10th October 2008

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By Sarah Hilley »

SWINDON schools have been applauded for embracing the world at an awards ceremony in London.

Teachers from Grange junior, Moredon primary and nursery school and Wootton Bassett School received International School Awards from broadcaster George Alagiah on Wednesday.

They have all reached out to schools in other countries to help pupils understand what life is like abroad.

Grange Junior School has been sharing weather records and British music with schools abroad, as well as writing letters.

It has formed links with schools in France, Italy, Spain and Sri Lanka.

“It makes learning about other countries come alive so the pupils know what it is like to be a child there,” said headteacher Christine Parkyn.

“We are really pleased to have received the award as it recognises the exciting international dimension work going on at our school.”

In July, Ofsted noticed Grange Junior’s international links, saying it had an outstanding influence on pupils’ personal development Wootton Bassett also basked in glory as teacher Hester McCunn picked up an awards for its global work.

Headteacher Chris Montacute said: “We are delighted that our work has been recognised. The school has developed international links over a number of years.

“We have many exciting projects in Europe, Africa, Asia and North America, which have given young people the opportunity to develop their understanding of different cultures and to be able to use this to enhance their overall education.”

Teacher Violet McLaren, from Moredon Primary School, also came face to face with Mr Alagiah.

“The event was fabulous, as we had a red carpet and there were people there from all over the UK,” she said.

Special Gambian and Chinese weeks have taught children about other cultures and the school is also running projects linked to Poland, Italy, Finland and Berlin.

Headteacher Lauren Connor said: “Developing our children as citizens of the world is at the heart of what we do.”

A record 585 schools were accredited for adding an international touch to their curriculum this year. The International School Award was launched in 1999 to praise schools, taking a global dimension to learning.