A primary school in Plaistow has received an international award recognising its work at bringing the world into the classroom.

Portway Primary School been awarded the British Council’s prestigious International School Award. It is accepted as a badge of honour for schools that undertake work in international education so that students gain the cultural understanding and skills they need to live and work as international citizens in an increasingly global community and economy.

To mark the European Day of Languages on September 26, Portway hosted a cultural dance performance from the local Kosovan Shpresa Programme. Children watched the young dancers delivered a stunning and colourful routine that provided a strong flavour of their cultural heritage.

Maggie Van Loan, head teacher said: “We are delighted to have been awarded The International School Award for our global dimension to the first-rate education we provide here at Portway. We were equally delighted to welcome young performers from the Kosovan Shpresa Programme who have motivated our young learners to become more involved with the wonderful range of cultural traditions that we enjoy in Newham.

“Portway already teaches a range of European languages, including French, Spanish, German and Portuguese and we anticipate that events such as these, will empower our children to aspire to exciting careers on an international level”.