Dreams + Teams The impact of international school partnerships through sport Jacqui Allan, Advisor, Sport, British Council

“Sport is a universal language that can bring people together, no matter what their origin, background, religious beliefs or economic status.” Kofi Anan, UN Secretary General.

So, what is Dreams + Teams? International school linking programme between UK and overseas where sports leadership is the catalyst for partnership A project which empowers young people, develops community links and builds understanding between countries. 4 continents, 45 Countries, over 400 schools

What Dreams + Teams is NOT …. A project for talented athletes which helps develop their sporting abilities.

Dreams + Teams 2 parts – D+T training and D+T school linking Training: Identify teachers/coaches to be trained as ‘Local Tutors’. Local Tutors facilitate young people to become Young Leaders. They develop the skills to organise sports events for other young people (primary school children / community groups) School Linking: International school link allows pupils & teachers to explore their skills globally, share and learn from others.

What impact can sports leadership and international school linking have?

Personal Development ‘Before the project I was shy and reserved, I was afraid of speaking in public and getting out into public in general. Now I have changed.’ Polish Young Leader ‘I have learnt so much about myself, and what I can actually accomplish on my own. We have had to challenge each other and find solutions to all the problems that we had to face.’ UK Young Leader

Curricular Impact ‘It brings the subjects to life for our pupils…’ Art Music History Communication skills Geography Whole school Languages: Brooksbank school and Halifax Rugby League Football Club linked with ‘Notre Dame des Anges’ a school that plays Rugby League from Perpignan

Behavioural impact and Inclusion Hipperholm school linked with Germany: ‘The students have a more positive commitment to education and are showing greater engagement with mainstream aspects of the curriculum.’ Headteacher Ukraine Young Offenders work: ‘ …many lacked normal social interpersonal skills…now they have the opportunity to develop these and return to normal life with proper skills and confidence.’ State Dept of Ukraine for Enforcement of Sentences

Impact on global awareness ‘Expanding my horizons, I guess that is what it’s all about. The project opened another door for me.’ UK Young Leader ‘It’s allowed us to develop an understanding of the Czech education system and develop relationships with Czech teachers that wouldn’t otherwise have been possible.’ UK Teacher ‘I’m able to experience other people’s culture in life rather than just reading in books.’ South African Young Leader ‘Sir, my world just got bigger.’ UK Young Leader