The following article comes from Charlotte Ashfield, MFL Teacher at Yew Tree Primary School.
Why is global education important to you and your school?
Global education is important to us at Yew Tree Primary because it broadens perspectives, encourages cultural understanding, and helps our young people become more informed, empathetic, and responsible global citizens. We want our children to make a difference in the world they live in and be proud of who they are and where they come from. We believe that in an interconnected world, it is vital for young people to understand the diversity of experiences, viewpoints, and the challenges others face across the globe. To me, global education also prepares youngsters for the future by developing skills that are necessary for the global workforce, such as collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. It promotes respect for different cultures and ideas, fostering an environment of inclusivity and openness.
How has the Global School Alliance benefited you as a teacher and the opportunities for your school?
The Global School Alliance offers many benefits to teachers and schools, including access to a network of educators, global resources, and cross-cultural collaboration. It has provided me personally with opportunities to engage in professional development through webinars and conferences. As a school we have formed an international partnership with a Spanish school, giving our children the opportunity to collaborate on joint projects, exchange ideas, and experience a different culture. We have taken part in live video chats and written letters/emails which have broadened our children’s’ understanding of other cultures and enriched our teaching and learning experiences. Overall, the GSA has provided a platform for me to grow professionally, has enhanced classroom learning, and opened doors to global opportunities for our children.
The GSA has provided a platform for me to grow professionally, has enhanced classroom learning, and opened doors to global opportunities for our children.
What benefits do you think this award will have on the whole school community?
By being recognised as part of a global educational alliance, our whole school community is experiencing growth, while preparing the children for success in an interconnected world. The award fosters strong connections with other schools around the world, ensuring students have access to diverse learning experiences, resources, and cultural insights, enriching their educational journey. It also highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity, creating a welcoming environment for children from all backgrounds, and encouraging respect and understanding for different cultures. I believe that achieving the award serves as a motivational tool, inspiring both children and staff to aim higher, embrace innovation, and take pride in the school’s achievements.
How will you use this award to motivate students and staff?
At Yew Tree, we have ensured the criteria for this award is connected to what we as a school want to promote, such as collective success, teamwork and collaboration. We encourage our children and staff to see the award as a way to celebrate progress, and highlight the importance of effort, improvement, and perseverance in achieving goals.
What are your plans to develop your international work?
In the future we would like to further develop our collaboration with our Spanish partner school, and perhaps establish more connections with other schools/institutions in different countries. This could lead to exchange programs or virtual collaborations, and even professional development opportunities for staff. We would also like to incorporate more global perspectives into our curriculum, further enhancing the children’s global exposure and experiences. By taking these steps, our school can not only enrich the educational experience for our children but also build a reputation for fostering a global mindset.
To learn more about the Global School Awards, visit: www.globalschoolalliance.com/global-school-awards.
