THE University of Chester Academy Northwich (UCAN) has been given a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to develop international links in Cape Town and Zimbabwe as part of a major new school twinning project.

Connecting Classrooms is a UK government and British Council education initiative, and UCAN has been selected in recognition of its commitment to teaching students about global issues.

Teachers and students are working with Alexander Sinton High School in Cape Town, South Africa and Watershed College in Zimbabwe to learn how to become responsible global citizens and to develop skills to work in a global economy.

Anastasia Arendse from Alexander Sinton High School said: “My visit to UCAN was of great benefit to my understanding of how an Academy is managed in the United Kingdom.

“I found the classes were disciplined and managed extremely well, and the learners were aware of the high standards set by the school and applied themselves well during lessons.

“Building links between UCAN and Alexander Sinton High School is a very beneficial project to all the schools involved in breaking down barriers, and we are looking forward to this partnership with an incredible Academy.”

Secretary of State for International Development, Justine Greening, said: “I am very pleased UCAN is taking on this excellent opportunity to link with schools in other parts of our world.

“Connecting Classrooms will enable students to learn about the world around them and how education can help eradicate poverty. It will also benefit teachers by enhancing their professional skills.”

The programme will enable teacher Mrs Davies, a Specialist Leader of Education from UCAN, to take part in an exchange visit with Alexander Sinton Secondary School and Watershed and work on classroom-based projects together, with the aim of giving young people a unique and hands-on international learning experience.

Mrs Davies, UCAN’s International Co-ordinator, said: “We are so lucky to be able to link with our sister school in Cape Town and forge new links in Zimbabwe.

“This link has been incredible and engaged so many students in UCAN and Sinton in real projects that have made a difference.”

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which has touched the hearts of many and changed the lives of even more through the Connecting Classrooms partnership.”