A WEST Devon primary school has been given recognition for its links across the globe, by achieving a Full International School award.

Staff at Gulworthy Primary were delighted to be given the status by the British Council in recognition of the school's outstanding international links and continued efforts to integrate globalisation into the curriculum.

Headteacher Melody Nicholls said: 'I am so proud of this achievement for such a small school. We have gained so much from our work towards this prestigious award.'

In 2006, the primary school created a link with Nyawalo School, a rural school located near Kisumu in eastern Kenya. The motivation was that Gulworthy, as a small and remote school, had limited contact with other cultures and places.

A teacher exchange took place in 2007, financed by a grant from the British Council.

Links have continued to develop as two teachers from Gulworthy visited Nyawalo in October last year, and two from Nyawalo returned the visit this week.

The theme of this exchange was 'Growing Together', a project focused on sustainability and horticulture. More than £800 was raised by Gulworthy pupils, which has been used to buy beehives and other equipment for Nyawalo School. While in Kenya, the teachers from Gulworthy initiated the establishment of a school garden.

The 'Growing Together' project has inspired pupils in both continents to value, appreciate and participate in food production.

Links were also established with Kanyogoga School in Uganda, through the 'Food For Thought' project, which focused on the wider community within a remote area of Uganda, looking at crops grown and sustainability.

Gulworthy's international status was further enhanced in 2011 when two teachers visited schools in Canada as part of their International Professional Development, again, thanks to British Council funding.

They were able to identify and implement aspects of the Canadian curriculum that were felt to be beneficial to their pupils in terms of knowledge, skills and resilience within the context of a rapidly changing world.

To highlight and celebrate Gulworthy's award, three books have been published, using material gathered from these activities. The books have given Gulworthy pupils an even greater understanding of differing cultures and the global community.

The school's PTA is also publishing a recipe book, 'Growing Together', which will include traditional recipes provided by pupils and staff in Kenya, and favourite British recipes provided by pupils at Gulworthy.

Paul Bolding, chair of governors, said: 'I am delighted that Gulworthy's commitment to international links has been recognised with this award.

'The pupils, staff and community have benefited hugely from the wide range of activities and learning opportunities these global relationships have created.'