Why do it?

There are many reasons for promoting the global dimension in your school. The following extract from ‘Put the world in your classroom’ by the British Council summarises some of the benefits.

‘Encouraging pupils to share and exchange schoolwork with their peers around the world, even at a very early age, enhances all areas of the curriculum. An international dimension in schools has also been proven to raise standards, achievement and motivation for pupils and staff across all subjects.’

The following are some quotes from Headteachers and teachers that have been involved in implementing the global dimension in their schools.

‘The gains – both personal and professional – have been immeasurable, just like the effects on the ethos of our school as a whole.’ (Keith Atkins, Headteacher, Swansea)

‘It makes the world a smaller place, but widens the world of our pupils. They are very interested in the lives of people in other countries and have shown such enthusiasm.’ (Barbera Mole, Headteacher, Nottingham)

‘Sharing information with our partner schools has raised standards. Getting involved in this kind of work is very much worth it.’ (Carol Courtney, International Co-ordinator,NI)

‘Ours was a school in trouble. With a two- pronged attack using creativity and internationalism we increased standards across the board. It was the glue we needed to bring us together.’ (Kevin Mcabe, Headteacher, Paget Primary School, Birmingham)

If you would like to find out how Peterborough schools have started to develop the global dimension in their schools we recommend you look at what our ‘partner schools’ are up to.