St John's has just registered its intent to become an international school. We are aiming to achieve the International School award. Here is some information about this award:

Whole school ethos

When a school has partner schools in the UK and in other countries, this can have the effect of bringing the school together and increasing its sense of ethos and identity. That is because the staff and pupils of the school think much more about how others see them, and wish to be seen in a positive light (welcoming, open-minded, ready to collaborate and share!)

Community Cohesion

The ISA has always promoted partnerships both within the UK and with other countries. This can give a real focus to discussions in the school about who we are (and how others see us), what it is to be British (and how other countries see us) and what it means to be a global citizen. Students are more willing to collaborate within the UK to produce something for a third audience – a partner school abroad is ideal.

Developing the curriculum

A Global Dimension approach to the curriculum can add relevance and real life to topics and really engage children. It incorporates news items and current affairs – crucially bringing in the different viewpoints and opinions from the people affected. It makes creative and ‘real’ use of  ICT. It puts languages into an exciting context. And it opens up global issues through history, geography and science, and strongly supports work on rights, sustainability and the future. You can read more about this approach on the QCA website, which refers to the ISA as the means through which exemplary school partnerships are recognised.

Widening participation

Activities with a partner school can refresh the teaching approach and engage all pupils.

You can visit the ISA site here