Springwood High School received the International School Award for its success in ‘bringing the world into the classroom’ through its ‘exceptional work in international education’.

The school was singled out for its sustainable fashion project with a partner school in Nepal, as well as two Erasmus initiatives in collaboration with schools in France, Italy, Macedonia and Croatia, and its overseas voluntary work opportunities for students in Thailand and Cambodia.

“Springwood High School has successfully met the criteria for gaining Reaccreditation of the International School Award,” stated the British Council report. 

“You have firmly embedded a genuine commitment to internationalism and global learning into the whole school curriculum. The teaching and learning of global and international issues remain at the forefront of the school ethos.”

Over 6,000 International School Awards have been granted to schools across the UK since the scheme was launched in 1999, and the programme has now been expanded to operate worldwide.

Judging criteria include: an international ethos; a whole-school approach to international work; collaborative curriculum-based work with partner schools; year-round international activity; and involvement of the wider community.

“Achieving the International School Award reflects the hard work and dedication of staff and students throughout Springwood High School,” said Andrew Johnson, who is Headteacher at the school. 

“We are proud that Springwood’s achievements in cultivating international connections, and improving our students’ understanding and awareness of the wider world, have been recognised by this award, and we will continue to work to strengthen our place within the global community.

“The International School Award is a chance for schools to be recognised for their important work bringing the world into their classrooms,” added Scott McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Council. 

“This is especially commendable when schools have been deeply affected by the global pandemic. The desire to build on their international work shines through and it is with utmost pride that we celebrate their achievements.

“By embedding an international dimension in children’s education, these schools are preparing their students for successful lives in the UK or further afield, empowering them to be global citizens, and are creating vital opportunities in an increasingly global economy.”