Grays Thurrock school's approach to learning with schools in Europe

A GRAYS school has started working in partnership with schools across Europe to pass on its approach to learning.

Thameside Infants in Manor Road, is working with schools from Poland, Bulgaria, Turkey and Romania as part of a British Council and its Comenius Partnership scheme.

The programme was launched at the end of October when teachers from the European schools visited Thameside for a week, and will last for three years with further visits planned.

The aim of the project is for the European partners to see the cross-curricula approach to learning at Thameside and its topic-based planning approach to teaching so its good practice can be spread further afield.

Dot Todhunter, the long-service head at Thameside, said: “Our teachers can share their experiences of using our topic-based approach and help them develop similar programmes in their own schools.

“Our curriculum is heavily based on giving the children practical first-hand experiences to explore their understanding and record their ideas.”

Councillor Sue MacPherson, Thurrock Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, visited the school on Tuesday and met with Miss Todhunter and her European visitors.

She said: “Too often we focus on the negative with our schools and our young people and it is marvellous to be able to see a Thurrock school being recognised for its leading role and being able to spread its successful message far and wide.

“Speaking with the teachers and seeing their enthusiasm for what Thameside does was a heartening experience for me. Thurrock’s schools and teachers are determined to raise attainment not just among their pupils, but in the community as a whole and Thameside is a shining example.”

She added: “It was also a pleasure to be able to congratulate Dot on the school’s recent success in the regional finals of the Learning Outside the Classroom Award for Excellence and Innovation.”

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