Pioneering scheme links Llandudno schools to Malawi and South Africa

Nov 18 2010 by Helen Harper, North Wales Weekly News

A PIONEERING scheme to link schools in Llandudno with counterparts in South Africa and Malawi is proving a success.

Ysgolion Craig-y-Don, San Sior and John Bright are taking part in the British Council’s Connecting Classrooms project and have entertained teachers from the two African countries.

A highlight of the visit was a day at Premiership football club Blackburn Rovers.

“Connecting Classrooms is an educational project designed to develop greater understanding of world cultures, celebrate diversity and share best practice in teaching and learning,” said John Bright teacher Rebecca Gavin.

“It’s a project that aims to bring an international dimension to young people’s learning, and prepare them for life as global citizens.”

During their visit the teachers spent time at each Llandudno school.

“Eight teachers came for a week and teachers from Llandudno will go to Africa next June. It was good to exchange ideas,” said Craig-y-Don headteacher Marc Berw Hughes.

The Blackburn Rovers visit was a highlight for the African teachers.

Marc explained: “The common language of football can help unite the schools and their countries.

“When asked about what they wanted to see on their visit to Britain, our African friends enquired about a Premiership football match and Blackburn made their dream come true.”