international partnerships
Our International Partners
Pilton Bluecoat Academy, is proud of its rich history in developing global partnerships that have enriched students' learning experiences and expanded their understanding of the world. We believe in the power of international education to foster mutual understanding, build cultural awareness, and prepare our students to become active global citizens.
Lourdes Central School, Mangalore, India
Our partnership with Lourdes Central School in Mangalore, India, began in 2008 and remains a cornerstone of our international focus. Lourdes Central School, established in 1999 under the Catholic Board of Education of the Diocese of Mangalore, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and moral education. Led by Principal Rev. Father Johnson L Sequeira, the school serves over 2,000 students and aims to create a peaceful and enlightened society through knowledge.
Key Highlights of Our Partnership:
- Student Exchanges: Over the years, students from Lourdes Central School have visited and studied alongside their peers at Pilton Bluecoat. In 2012, a group of our pupils, visited Lourdes Central School, fostering a deep connection between our students.
- Collaborative Projects: Our partnership has involved a range of activities, including a pen pal system where students exchange letters, emails, and video calls, sharing insights into their lives and education. Teachers from both schools have developed joint curriculum projects focusing on the UNICEF Sustainable Development Goals, promoting global citizenship and awareness.
- Recent Visit: In August 2024, our CEO, Ian Thomas, had the pleasure of visiting Lourdes Central School. He was warmly welcomed with a special assembly where he addressed the students about the importance of global education and the ongoing partnership. Several productive meetings were held to discuss the future of the collaboration, agreeing to launch a new phase in September 2024, centred around innovative curriculum projects and teacher interaction.
Looking Ahead:
Both Pilton Bluecoat and Lourdes Central School are committed to maintaining and expanding the partnership. With a shared focus on educational excellence and global learning, we are excited to explore new projects that will benefit students on both sides, fostering a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
Other Global Partnerships
In addition to our work with Lourdes Central School, Pilton Bluecoat Academy has developed meaningful partnerships with:
- Green Valley Primary School, Uganda
- St John's Primary School, Kenya
These partnerships have been integral in promoting cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
British Council Projects and European Links
Our commitment to international education is further demonstrated by our active participation in various British Council projects, which have connected us with schools across Europe. These collaborations have included cultural exchanges, language learning initiatives, and joint projects that align with our educational goals.
Residential Trips to Spain and Germany
We believe in providing our students with hands-on international experiences. Pilton Bluecoat Academy runs two residential trips for our students:
- Segovia, Spain
- Berlin, Germany
These trips offer unique opportunities for our students to immerse themselves in different cultures, enhancing their language skills and global awareness.
A Truly International School
At Pilton Bluecoat Academy, we are dedicated to providing a learning environment that values global education. Our partnerships across the world, combined with our international trips and involvement in global projects, ensure that our students are well-prepared to thrive in an interconnected world.
For more information about Lourdes Central School, please visit their website.