Benefits of the ISA
The introduction of the International School
Award into Part One of the 2007-8 SEF reflects the contribution it
can make to school development.
"Perhaps the most important aspect of
the ISA is the context it gives to what might be called the
celebration of diversity. For us this is the framework for all our
anti racist and equal opportunities strategies; within this, EAL
and ethnic diversity have become positive aspects of school life
rather than issues that need to be dealt with."
Fiona Swanson, Impington Village College, Cambs
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. More>>>
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. It
also strongly supports work on rights, sustainability, and the
future. You can read more about this approach on the QCDA website,
which refers to the ISA as the means through which exemplary school
partnerships are recognised.
More>>>
Widening participation
Activities with a partner school can refresh
the teaching approach and engage all pupils. More>>>
You can find out more about how the
ISA supports school development in the section for school leaders
in Support and management, where there is
information about mapping to ECM outcomes, a Head Teacher Support
Document for the International Strategy (with guidance),
examples of Ofsted's feedback and so
on.