ST MARY Bourne Primary School has been awarded the British Council’s full international school award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom.

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.

St Mary Bourne School’s international work includes a range of projects, including some collaborative projects with partner schools in Germany and Uganda.

Childrens’ favourites included the Eating is believing project, the German Café and the St Mary Bourne Bake Off.

Many of the projects saw partnership schools involved in similar activities and technology played a full part in keeping each of the schools up-to-date throughout the planned activities.

Jonathan Nelson, head teacher, said: “This is an incredible achievement of which our whole school community can be justly proud.

“Very few primary schools hold the full international school’s award and we are very fortunate to have an award coordinator in Mrs Robinson, who is so passionate about languages.

“We have been amazed at the very positive way the activities have been received by staff, pupils, parents and governors.

“All of the activities have enriched our curriculum enormously this year and we have had great fun with them.

“Children have loved the projects and have been pleading for special days like Apple Day and the German Café to now become permanent parts of our curriculum.’ John Rolfe, from 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.

“Adding an international dimension to children’s education ensures that they are truly global citizens and helps prepare them for successful future careers in an increasingly global economy.”