Abbey Junior School, Darlington and School 639, St Petersburg, Russia

Abbey Junior School, Darlington, UK:

360 Pupils on roll aged 7 - 11 years. The majority of children come from nearby Abbey Infant School. Links between both schools are encouraged as is the link with Hummerskott School and Language College where the majority of the children transfer at the end of Year 6.

Details of the partner school

School 639, St Petersburg, Russia: Pupils aged 7-17

When did the partnership start?  How was the partner school located?

The link between both schools was made in May 2005. Abbey Junior School was approached by Hummersknott School & Language College. They had already established a partnership with School 639 St Petersburg and this school wanted a primary link.

Case Study of a particular activity or all joint activities to date

Within this partnership the Russian pupils (11) have visited Abbey Junior’s in February 2006. A reciprocal visit will take place in May 2006 for 10 days.

The project, ‘Healthy Schools’ was selected because of the international nature of the issue of healthy lifestyles and its significance and current importance within UK schools. Eleven Year 6 pupils have been involved in the project so far; encompassing a science based project supported by work in PE, PSHE, Art, DT, ICT and Languages (8 boys & 3 girls). The experiences so far have widened the children’s knowledge and understanding of different cultures. Their ICT skills via email/personal contacts have developed and it is hoped they will further enhance these skills with video conferencing whilst in Russia. Evaluation has been as a staff with parents, with our link school (Hummersknott). Also through displays, presentations and the children’s work itself.

Funding for this project: British Council, local companies and parental/pupil fundraising.

Other information

• Professional Development: to explore ways of improving teaching and learning through the sharing of ideas and unique styles of teaching in both counties (UK and Russia). A development of international attitude and awareness of teaching and citizenship through the practical work and learning about a different culture
• Language skills and communication have further developed
• Parental awareness of cultural differences has also been developed and their own personal experiences of the link have enriched their lives and the lives of their families. Much encouragement has been given to the school to develop additional partnerships
• The school has learnt a great deal through the 11 pupils that presented their work and findings in assemblies and other pupils have researched facts and stories about Russia
• This project has enhanced the reputation of Abbey Junior School throughout Darlington. Much interest has been shown by the press, TV, local groups and other schools