The Farnley Academy has gained a prestigious British Council award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom.
The International School Award celebrates the achievements of schools that do exceptional work in international education.
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 for life work in today’s world.
The Farnley Academy’s international work includes projects with students and their three partner schools in France, Germany and Spain.
They have also celebrated a wide range of international-based festivals and events, including Fairtrade Fortnight, Refugee Week and European Day of Languages.
Claire Noble, International Dimensions Co-Ordinator at The Farnley Academy, said:
“We were thrilled last month to be awarded with the British Council International School Award at Accreditation Level, the highest level possible.
“Staff and students at The Farnley Academy have worked with great enthusiasm and commitment in order to achieve this prestigious award, which is testament to the beliefs and values of the whole school in embedding a rich and creative range of international work.”
Sir Ciarán Devane, CEO of the British Council, said:
“The school’s fantastic international work has rightfully earned it this prestigious award.
“The International School Award is a great chance for schools to demonstrate the important work they’re doing to bring the world into their classrooms. Embedding an international dimension in children’s education ensures that they are truly global citizens and helps prepare them for successful lives and careers in an increasingly global economy.”
The International School Award encourages and supports schools to develop:
- An international ethos embedded throughout the school
- A whole school approach to international work
- Collaborative curriculum-based work with a number of partner schools
- Year-round international activity
- Involvement of the wider community
The award is now available worldwide in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Lebanon, Cyprus, and Pakistan. Around 5,500 International School Awards have been presented to successful schools in the UK since the scheme began in 1999.