Schools join international network of innovative schools

Schools gathered in Cardiff today to celebrate their achievements and to attend the launch of iNet Wales, a network of highly innovative schools that will link schools in Wales with each other and educational institutions from around the world to share best practice and raise standards.

Speaking at the event Jane Davidson, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, said:

‘I am delighted to support the launch of iNet Wales. I am fully supportive of iNet's mission to create powerful and innovative global networks of schools that have achieved or committed themselves to achieving changes to improve outcomes. Networks of good practice encourage and support teachers to explore innovative approaches to learning and teaching.

We will only achieve the high standards we strive for if we engage learners in their learning and empower practitioners to be creative, to innovate and share. By joining iNet, one of the largest networks of schools in the world, accessing global knowledge and innovation and developing international partnerships can become a reality.'

iNet Wales, part of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust’s international arm, supports schools in engaging and partnering with other schools from across the world and facilitates the sharing of information and experiences. It allows schools to participate in the worldwide movement to improve education.

Elizabeth Reid, Chief Executive of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, said:

‘There is a huge amount of innovative work taking place in schools throughout Wales. Those affiliated to iNet Wales will receive a wide range of support and resources to help them share this, as well as the opportunity to benefit from the experience of others from around the world. Partnerships, the sharing of best practice and continual professional development help schools raise achievement and create greater opportunities for students to realise their potential.

By affiliating to iNet Wales, schools will be able strengthen their existing partnerships and grow them internationally through what is, probably, the largest network of schools in the world.’

Through online conferences, study tours, publications and local, regional and international events, schools will be able to share and discuss ideas on a wide range of issues including curriculum, innovative teaching practices, school management and leadership. Students will also benefit through the running of educational projects with schools in South Africa or Chile, for example, and through the international network of students which allows them to communicate directly with each other.

Ends.

Notes to editors

1) iNet Wales is part of iNet (International Networking for Educational Transformation), the international arm of the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust.

2) iNet aims to create powerful and innovative networks of schools that have achieved or have committed themselves to achieving systematic, significant and sustained change that ensures outstanding outcomes for all students in all settings.

3) iNet currently has networks in Australia, Chile, China, South Africa, England and now Wales. Details of iNet can be found at www.ssat-inet.net/

4) The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust is the leading national body for secondary education in England, part funded by the DfES, delivering the Government's Specialist Schools and Academies programme. The Government's aim is that by 2008 all schools will be specialist, except those planned to be Academies.

5) For further information please contact Michael Turner, Media Relations Manager, on 020 7802 0971 or email: michael.turner@ssatrust.org.uk