International School Award for Pitsford School

In a world where travel has become less frequent, Pitsford School has worked hard to embed an international dimension in their pupil's education, creating truly global citizens.

Pitsford School has been awarded the British Council’s prestigious International School 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.

Over the last year Pitsford School’s international work has included: a whole school celebration of the European Day of Languages, trips abroad to France and Germany, a visit to the prestigious Language Show in London, three Etwinning projects with 6 partner schools in Spain and France, the participation in the Juvenes Translatores translation contest and the creation of a multilingual and multicultural magazine published during lockdown. New and exciting projects have also been planned for this academic year.

On hearing the news that Pitsford School had received the award, Dr Craig Walker, Headmaster said: "I am so proud of my students and school in securing this magnificent award as it epitomises the culture and outlook of Pitsford School: outward looking, engaged, international and interested in others. That, under the leadership of Dr Cabrera Álvarez, they built links with so many schools in France and Spain demonstrates that the boys and girls of Pitsford School are genuine citizens of the world and the future will be safe in their hands. I look forward with great anticipation as they continue to build on what has been achieved thus far. Bravo!"

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.’"

Around 5,500 International School Awards have been presented to successful schools in the UK since the scheme began in 1999.