STAFF and pupils at Earlsheaton Technology College have been going global to improve their understanding of different faiths and cultures.
The school has linked up with young people in Pakistan to ensure that students had a sense of shared values and felt part of a community - both locally and internationally.
As part of the Connecting Classrooms project, they worked with the community cohesion team based in at Kirklees Council and also with the council’s Learning Service.
Projects included performances of a play called ‘From One Extreme To The Other’, the production of a CD called ‘Songs in the Key of Dewsbury’ and an exchange programme between Earlsheaton Technology College, local primary schools and schools in Pakistan.
The Connecting Classrooms initiative, a project spanning three years, is encouraging students in Dewsbury to communicate via the internet with other youngsters in Pakistan.
Across the two countries, more than 1,200 students have been involved, along with staff, parents and community members. There have also been twinning projects between parents in schools including Boothroyd and St Paulinus.
Coun Peter O’Neill, Cabinet member for communities, said the project had been very successful and added: “Feedback from students, staff and parents has been very positive and they tell us there are improved community relations within the school and in the wider area.
“A DVD about a visit to Pakistani schools by staff from Earlsheaton Technology College has been shared with other Kirklees schools and they have carried out visits to take part in assemblies.
“Teachers from Pakistani schools also visited the UK to see Dewsbury schools in operation.
“This has been an excellent opportunity for those working and living in Dewsbury to get to know each other better while doing something interesting and informative at the same time.”
Coun Cath Harris, Cabinet member for children and families, said: “This is an example of excellent work by the school and its partners to bring communities together and look for shared interests and concerns.
“I hope this partnership will continue to promote positive relations between people in Dewsbury. It is portraying Dewsbury in a positive light at home and abroad.”