A Spalding primary school has received a prestigious award from the British Council for its work helping pupils learn about languages, cultures and communities around the world.
Spalding Parish Church of England Day School has been handed the International School Award, which recognises schools that carry out what the British Council describes as exceptional work in international education.
Projects connected pupils with children overseas
The school’s international programme included language workshops led by secondary school Language Ambassadors, letter-writing with children in Spain and a French café involving families and the wider community.
Pupils also explored possible global careers through World of Work sessions focused on travel and tourism. The activities were designed to extend language learning beyond the classroom and introduce children to different cultures and international opportunities.
A major part of the programme was a visit to Madrid, where pupils worked alongside students from the school’s partner school. The groups took part in a collaborative gardening project, learning about sustainability, environmental responsibility and cultural differences in food production.
School celebrates international partnership
A British Council spokesman said the school’s international collaboration, cultural celebrations, storytelling events and continuing links with Spain had helped pupils develop confidence, empathy and a better understanding of the wider world.
“Through international collaboration, cultural celebrations, storytelling events and ongoing links with Spain, pupils developed greater confidence, empathy and understanding of the wider world. “The award reflects the school’s dedication to preparing pupils to become informed, respectful and responsible global citizens while fostering a strong international ethos throughout the school community.”
Sue Hirst, the school’s international co-ordinator and primary languages lead, said staff were “absolutely delighted” to receive the award.
“We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded the International School Award. “This achievement reflects the enthusiasm, curiosity and hard work of our pupils and staff, as well as the strong partnerships we have built with schools overseas. “Through a wide range of international projects, our children have developed a greater understanding of different cultures and gained valuable skills that will help them become confident, responsible global citizens.”
The award recognises work involving pupils, staff, families and overseas partners, with the school’s projects combining language learning, cultural exchange, sustainability and discussions about future careers.