International Work

Our International Work
Our school has a long-standing commitment to international learning, previously recognised with the International School Award - Foundation. We regularly work with and support a charity which support children in the Peruvian rain-forest. It recognises the inequality in the provision of care especially in education for the very poorest communities of that country with a school in Peru. Pupils take part in fundraising, cultural activities, and learning projects that develop empathy, awareness, and global citizenship. International themes such as sustainability, diversity, and shared responsibility are embedded across the curriculum. 

2024-2025

(Autumn Term) First Steps 2 School – Peru
As part of our link with First Steps 2 School – Peru, pupils took part in fundraising events, including themed dress-up and Christmas Jumper Days. Through assemblies and class discussions, they learned about Peruvian culture and school life, reflecting on similarities and differences with their own experiences. While we did not work directly with a partner school, a local contact supported the project and sent a letter recognising our efforts, helping pupils understand the real impact of their contributions.

(Spring 2025) French Folk Music Workshops
We welcomed the French folk band Cri du Canard for a day of music, dance, and language. The trio introduced French folk traditions and vocabulary to all year groups, teaching a song and traditional dance. Pupils practised French phrases, co-created a song, and shared their learning in a whole-school assembly open to parents. The workshops engaged all children, and some children found a real love for French Folk Music, giving all our pupils a hands-on, immersive experience of French culture.

EYFS – Chinese New Year
Our EYFS children explored and celebrated Chinese New Year through a variety of hands-on cultural activities. They dressed up and played in a specially decorated home corner, made dragon masks, and created a lively parade outdoors inspired by traditional dragon dances. In Forest School, pupils made snakes from elder and wire and practised using chopsticks to enjoy noodles around the fire. These activities helped children develop creativity, fine motor skills, and an early appreciation of cultural traditions from around the world.

Year 1 Bell Class – Rio Carnival
Year 1 pupils in Bell Class immersed themselves in the vibrant culture of Rio Carnival. They explored Brazilian music, dance, and costume, creating their own carnival-inspired artwork and performing simple dances and carnival procession through the school - the lively line was a sight to behold! The activities encouraged creativity, teamwork, and appreciation of global traditions.

(Summer 2025) KS2 Residential Trip to Le Touquet
In June, KS2 pupils joined Bishop Monkton CE Primary School on our annual trip to Le Touquet, France. The trip included exploring a French market, visiting a chocolate factory, making croissants, and tasting local foods. Pupils used their French language skills in real-life contexts and met locals, including a baker, Bruno. Visits such as Étaples War Cemetery encouraged reflection, respect, and compassion. The trip strengthened friendships, independence, and confidence, offering a rich combination of cultural, linguistic, and personal development experiences.