Bredon Hill Academy has scooped a prestigious award for its international teaching encouraging students to be ‘global citizens’, presented by West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin. The school picked up the award for its work encouraging students to learn more about other countries. It has partnered with schools in Norway, France, Poland Germany, Austria and Belgium and even hosted a French language assistant. The scheme 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 award is made by the British Council and was presented by Harriett to Anne Amzallag at a ceremony in London yesterday (November 28). The International School Award is a global accreditation scheme recognising good practice in incorporating the international dimension into schools. The accreditation process takes approximately 15 months to complete and successful schools are accredited for three years. Harriett commented: “It is fabulous news that Bredon Hill Academy scooped this extremely prestigious award and I was delighted to be asked to make the presentation. “The British Council runs great activities encouraging teachers and pupils to learn more about other countries and I have seen lots of evidence of schools benefitting from this initiative. “As someone who studied modern language I know that I benefited from this international focus on teaching and I would encourage as many schools as possible to get involved in these sorts of initiatives.” Sir Ciarán Devane, Chief Executive 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.” Photo: Bredon Hill Academy Anne Amzallag (left) receives the International School Award from West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin.