Global

Putting our Public Purposes into action: Bringing the World to the UK and the UK to the World

What does this mean?

The BBC uses outreach projects around the world to stimulate and join in international dialogue and debate. In the UK, outreach projects can help to promote global issues, and to develop exposure to a wealth of diverse cultures.

How do we do it?

BBC World Class helps schools in the UK to develop a twinning partnership with schools around the world. The project's website acts as a platform to put the schools in touch, and then provides ideas and resources to help them share their stories and develop a rewarding and enriching relationship.

In 2010, the project launched the Olympic Dreams School network in association with the British Council. Over 1200 UK schools applied to be twinned with international schools that were attended by Olympic athletes hoping to compete in London 2012. 44 winning schools were selected and are now forming partnerships with students from China to Gaza . A further 500 schools have joined World Class to “twin for 2012”.

The initiative offers tools on its websites to help twinned schools to hold themed assemblies, make video content and blog about their shared experiences and aspirations for London 2012. Their creativity has led to 37 schools contributing to content for BBC programmes across TV, radio and online, which have been broadcast through local, national and global outlets.

Keep up to date with the stories from the schools at bbc.co.uk/worldclass/