A PRIMARY school has received a prestigious award for its commitment to international education.
Bidston Avenue Primary School in Birkenhead has been awarded the Intermediate Level of the British Council’s International School Award, recognising its efforts to bring a global perspective into the classroom.
Stuart Brady, headteacher at Bidston Avenue Primary School, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this award, which recognises the hard work of our staff and pupils in making international education part of everyday learning.
“At Bidston Avenue, we want our children to be rooted in their local community but also to understand the wider world.
“This award shows how far we’ve come and how committed we are to global citizenship for all.”
The award celebrates schools that “do exceptional work in international education.”
In the case of Bidston Avenue, this includes a long-standing partnership with Taicang Experimental Primary School in China, a Year 6 visit to Jiangsu province, the teaching of Mandarin in Key Stage 2, and climate change projects.
The school also works with the Global School Alliance (GSA), which supports Mandarin teaching for all junior pupils.
Councillor George Davies, chair of governors, said: “This is a wonderful achievement for the school and the local area.
“It’s a reflection of the vision, values, and ambition we see every day at Bidston Avenue.
“Giving children the chance to explore other cultures, learn new languages, and engage with international issues prepares them not just for exams, but for life.
“I am also delighted to see the school working with a school in Taicang as this sister city has links with Wirral Council.”
Shannon West, head of UK schools at the British Council, said: “Bidston Avenue’s international work has earned the school well-deserved recognition with the British Council International School Award.
“We are proud and delighted to work with this great school.
“Many thanks to everyone for all their commitment to developing international work and sharing excellent classroom practice and resources.”
More than 6,000 International School Awards have been presented to successful schools in the UK since the scheme began in 1999.
