Brackenbury Primary Gains International School Award

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British Council honour recognises outstanding work in international education

The International School Award is a badge of honour for schools that do outstanding work in international education, such as through links with partner schools overseas.

Brackenbury Primary School's headteacher Jackie Roberts says: " The children at Brackenbury benefit hugely from our work on global citizenship as it educates and prepares them for their role in a modern world. It fosters a sense of caring about the world and helps them to understand how they can have a positive impact. I’m delighted that this award recognises the hard work of our staff."

Fostering an international dimension in the curriculum is at the heart of the British Council’s work with schools, so that young people gain the cultural understanding and skills they need to live and work as global citizens.

One of Brackenbury Primary School’s international projects centres around its relationship with Beza (Besabarok) School in Ethiopia. Reciprocal staff visits have taken place over the last three years through the charity Link Ethiopia, thanks to funding from the British Council’s ‘Connecting Classrooms’ initiative.

Mr Ato Gezaghen, Headteacher at Beza School, congratulated Brackenbury, saying: "The link we have made with our partner school has brought tremendous change and different opportunities that have significantly enhanced the capacity of our students and teachers.

"We continue to strengthen the positive relationship between our two schools, supported by Link Ethiopia, for further friendship and learning together. Long live Ethiopia and UK friendship! Long live our partnership."

In addition, Brackenbury Primary School’s international work includes celebrating the diversity of languages and cultures represented in the community; learning about international issues; recognising what makes a good global citizen; providing opportunities for children to participate in campaigns; and, hosting events to enjoy different cultures.

The award is now available worldwide in countries such as India, Egypt, Lebanon and Pakistan as part of the Connecting Classrooms programme, which is delivered by the British Council and supported by the Department for International Development (DFID).

International Development Secretary Justine Greening says: " Young people must be at the heart of our work to create a safer and more prosperous world for everyone and we need to ensure their voices are heard if we are to win the fight against global poverty.

"That is why I am delighted to celebrate the international work of Brackenbury Primary School and the energy and passion of the young people involved. "

December 21, 2015