MFL at Edward the Elder

“Education is simply the soul of a society as it passes from one generator to another.” – G.K. Chesterton (British author and philosopher)

Edward the Elder is a one form entry school in the heart of the Midlands, surrounded by a growing multicultural community. Across the school, approximately 250 pupils and 30 staff work collaboratively to change lives for the better. Team Edwards creates a learning environment that is full of integrity and support in all that we do, where children are happy and excited attend every morning. At the heart of the school is exceptional teaching that encourages children to be the best that they can be, and fully believe that they can achieve anything. In February 2025, an Ofsted inspector commented that Team Edwards has high ambition for all pupils and are a highly inclusive school. ETE always strives to make sure children, regardless of their background, are ready to leave primary school and become part of the wider community. Teaching a strong foundational knowledge encourages children to be open minded, respectful and curious about their wider world. This is reflected throughout our school values: ready, respectful and safe. This ethos is embraced by the children where they actively and consistently take ownership of their own actions. The children’s enthusiasm, passion for learning and wonder drives the school to always search for the next big thing that we can be a part of, and you will see from our application that we are absolutely ready to achieve the Intermediate Level of the International School Award.

“When I get older, I want to be successful. I want to be a part of my world community and be social!” (Millie, Year 4)

We are so fortunate at ETE to have a collection of such passionate and dedicated children. From EYFS to Year 6, children are engaged in their learning and want to grow academically as well as personally. They do not want to learn just for the sake of passing tests but to fully understand why people live and think differently, and how to meaningfully contribute to their communities. Academically, children are motived and challenged to solve problems, apply knowledge and be creative through a broad and balanced curriculum. Our children thrive when teachers notice their individual strengths and often work with peers and in collaboration to achieve. On a personal level, our children want to grow into independent, thoughtful and responsible individuals. Exposure to different cultures and perspectives is at the heart of all our teaching and our children are always eager to share what they have learnt. Additionally, friendships and extracurricular activities help shape character and teach to respect diversity, our children want to be seen, heard and valued in their community and are learning how to share this belief with the wider world. Ultimately, children who are supported both academically and personally are more engaged learners and compassionate world citizens. The work the children undertake daily proves their potential to be lifelong learners and future leaders.

“I think it’s important learn about the world because we can meet new people and learn about their culture!” (Jorgie, Year 5)

Exposure to global perspectives is detrimental in shaping well-rounded and empathetic individuals. Activities as simple as watching ‘Newsround’ for 8 minutes a day keeps our children in the loop and aware of what is going on in their world. Our children are encouraged to make links between their own and diverse cultures, viewpoints and ways of life, allowing them to think beyond their immediate environment. By interacting with peers from different countries and environments, children learn how to break down stereotypes and prejudice and promote inclusivity and respect instead. Subsequently, this allows our children to challenge their own world view, and the views of others, allowing them to become more adaptable and flexible in

new situations. This open exchange of ideas nurtures problem solving and addressing complex challenges in creative and innovative ways. Ultimately, when the children leave us, we hope we have given them the tools to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

“My children are a diverse group with heritage and experiences of their own, how can I best support them without putting in the effort to learn myself?” – Mrs K Whinton (Class Teacher)

ETE consistently looks for ways to provide teachers with opportunities and resources to develop their own understanding and pedagogy. This helps educators to better meet the needs of their children, stay current with educational trends and meet the needs of a multicultural classroom. CPD is offered in way of training, updating through notifications and face to face meetings. Subject leaders ensure that changes are distributed in a detailed and timely manner. Moreover, teachers work together across the school and trust in daily practice and moderation to share best practice and learn from each other. This collaborative approach ensure that a broad expanse of children are being reached and best-practice is not guarded. Going forward, we are looking to develop our collaborative relationship overseas and this award has allowed us to think critically and widely about how to achieve that.

“It is important to learn about the world to gain more knowledge. I want to help people save the planet.” (Kolby, Year 6)

Our children absolutely have the potential to make powerful and lasting impact on their communities and wider world and at ETE they are given the right guidance and opportunities to achieve this goal. Even when entering nursery, our children demonstrate that they have the ability to show kindness, empathy and fairness and as they progress, they learn how to share this in a wider context. Our children understand that their voice matters and speaking out and taking initiative and supported and encouraged. By working collaboratively with their peers, visitors to the school and people they meet on excursions children grow their mindset and become more informed and compassionate people. Meeting with our local MP, visiting council chambers, hosting guests who have travelled the world all work in tandem to expose our children to the problems of the world and encourage them to be part of the solution.

To conclude, Edward the Elder is dedicated to improving the lives and aspirations of every child that walks through the door. We want our children to leave as well rounded and considerate citizens, to make a better place for all to live in. Applying for this award has allowed us to think carefully about the provision we offer and subsequently, how our children can share their amazing selves with the wider world. We want to you understand and appreciate their dedication as much as we do.