TEACHERS from a Nigerian school have visited Tavistock College to learn about the way physical education (PE) is taught in Britain and to build a sustainable sporting legacy following the 2012 London Olympics.

The visitors were stunned by the quality of facilities at Tavistock College and impressed by teachers' techniques and dedication.

Kenny Famuyibo, head of PE at FSTC Yaba, said: 'When I saw the sports centre I couldn't believe that a secondary school could have such good facilities. In Nigeria it's only universities which have them.

'I loved the gym, and the PE department is well staffed with capable hands and they work with enthusiasm. They're happy doing the work.'

Mr Famuyibo and principal Michael K Ofor made the trip as part of a British Council project.

Community sports development manager Duncan Godfrey and school sports co-ordinator Chrissie Bassett have already visited Nigeria and Miss Bassett organised a programme of events to welcome their counterparts to Tavistock.

Chrissie said: 'It was a fantastic opportunity for the college and the PE Department to be involved in an international project.

'We hope that this project will not only highlight the work the PE department is doing towards the 2012 Olympic legacy, but also aiding the worldwide community to achieve and enjoy through sport.

'Our visitors had a wonderful experience seeing lessons, fixtures and a primary school. They were very impressed with the schools facilities and the welcome they received.'

As well as observing sports lessons and being shown round the local area, the teachers were given a tour of the college and learned about the way it is structured.

Mr Ofor said: 'We have learned a lot, especially in sports. We are going to introduce cricket, rounders, softball and rugby.

'Some other secondary schools in Nigeria already play them so we'll be able to compete and hopefully have an exchange programme and play against Tavistock College.'

He said the teachers at the college made a difference because they took a practical, interactive approach.

'It's the art of teaching and they are applying innovative principles to teaching and learning," he added. 'We will show the pattern of teaching we've seen here to other staff so they will all have the new approach. This is one of the by-products of the Olympics in 2012.'

He added that the visit had been rewarding and the partnership programme built unity, understanding and care between countries.