The school partnerships and international education programme at the British Council goes back more than 60 years. In 1999 the Council started the International School Award accreditation scheme, and this is now a framework that supports international work in schools around the world. More than 3000 schools across the UK have gained the Full Award. 

Our new schools strategy for 2012 will re-affirm these commitments, with a particular objective to support sustained collaboration between schools. We firmly believe this improves educational outcomes for young people globally as well as offering opportunities for teachers and school leaders to develop professionally and contribute to system reform in the education sector.

The British Council advocates global citizenship in young people worldwide. We are committed to recognising schools that equip pupils with the skills, understanding and outlook required to work in a global economy and contribute responsibly to society, locally and globally.

Next year, as the UK welcomes the world for 2012, the International School Award will be an important symbol of our commitment to building sustainable connections between young people globally.

We hope to see ever more schools working with partner schools around the world and getting involved in exciting international projects that fit with and enhance curriculum-based learning and skills development. We will continue to support you with your ideas throughout next year and recognise your work through our International School Award accreditation framework.