A school has been recognised for its work in bringing the world to its Hammersmith classrooms.
Brackenbury Primary has been given the British Council’s prestigious International School Award for its outstanding work in overseas education.
Headteacher Jackie Roberts praised the work of the staff at the Brackenbury Road school.
The award looks at schools which foster an international dimension in the curriculum, allowing young people to gain a the cultural understanding and skills needed to live and work.
Among the schools international projects is its relationship with Beza School in Ethiopia , which have seen reciprocal staff visits over recent years, and was set up by the charity Link Ethiopia.
News of Brackenbury’s award was warmly received by the headteacher at the African school. Ato Gezaghen said: “It was with great joy that I heard the breaking news of the International Award of Brackenbury Primary School [and] I say congratulations to all members and stakeholders of the school.
“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 our partnership”.
Laurence Conneely (CORRECT), from Link Ethiopia, said: “In just three short years, Beza School and Brackenbury Primary have shown how a meaningful link can bring learning to life.
"The learning opportunities afforded by the link improve pupil engagement, knowledge, skills and values and I think receiving the International School Award is recognition of these important achievements.”
Brackenbury's international work also 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.
British Council chief executive Sir Ciarán Devane said the school had “rightfully earned” the award, while international development minister Justine Greening MP said: “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.”
And Brackenbury headteacher Jackie Roberts added: “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.”
