EGERTON Primary School has received a major international accolade in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom.

The school has received the British Council’s International School Award, which celebrates the achievements of schools which do exceptional work in international education.

Fostering an international dimension in the curriculum is at the heart of the British Council’s work with schools, so young people gain the cultural understanding and skills they need in today’s world.

Egerton’s international work includes leading a cluster of 35 schools, including six in Njoro, Kenya.

A British Council spokesman said: “They are a school of excellence in global learning, and have been actively involved in research and been the subject of many case studies by the British Council, Oxfam and the Institute of Education in London to support other schools in embedding this approach.”

Headteacher Alison Hooper said: “I am immensely proud of all we have achieved for the children of our school to support them in understanding the big issues that shape our world and equip them with the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to make a positive contribution.

“We believe strongly in sharing best practice, and as a result the Egerton partnership with Egerton in Njoro has been instrumental in bringing together more than 80 schools in Cheshire and in Njoro, involving more than 10,000 children. This is a living legacy of the commitment to education shown by the Egerton family.”

Sir Ciarán Devane, CEO of the British Council, said: “The school’s fantastic international work has rightfully earned it this prestigious award.

“The International School Award is a great chance for schools to demonstrate the important work they are doing to bring the world into their classrooms.

“Embedding an international dimension in children’s education ensures they are global citizens and helps prepare them for successful lives and careers in an increasingly global economy.”

The award, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, is now available worldwide in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Lebanon, Nigeria and Pakistan.

More than 6,000 International School Awards have been presented to schools in the UK since the scheme began in 1999.

The award encourages and supports schools to develop an international ethos embedded throughout the school, a whole school approach to international work, collaborative curriculum-based work with partner schools, year-round international activity and the involvement of the wider community.