Two rural schools nestled in between Radstock and Bath are celebrating this week after being awarded funding for a new two-year project by the European Union.

The Erasmus Programme is an international student exchange programme, established in 1987, to encourage schools across Europe to work together on projects, initiatives, competitions and research work.

Shoscombe Church School and St Julian’s School Wellow, the Church Valley Schools Federation, have both been awarded the funding. They will receive almost €50,000 between them from now until 2020.

Executive Headteacher, Ruth Noall, said: “We’re thrilled to have received this funding! The project, ‘Respect: Re-use: Recycle’ aims to achieve lifelong changes in attitudes and behaviour, so that we can all contribute towards making our world a better place.

“This amazing Erasmus-funded project enriches the teaching and learning in all the schools involved. We work in close collaboration with our partner schools in France, Denmark, Catalonia, Spain and Ireland.

“Through the funding awarded by the European Union, partners are all able to provide wonderful opportunities and experiences for our school communities.

“In addition, the project enables us to offer the incredibly unique opportunity for older primary school aged pupils and their teachers to travel to partner countries overseas to learn more about one another.

“The costs of travel are funded by Erasmus, allowing any pupil, regardless of their financial situation, to participate.

“This is a really empowering experience, which many pupils and their families say is one of the highlights of their primary school years.

“They acquire first hand knowledge and understanding of different cultures, languages and ways of life. Just as importantly, they develop resilience, self-confidence, and respect!”

Over the next two years, the schools involved will exchange ideas and work collaboratively on activities highlighting the need for global tolerance, understanding and awareness about environmental issues.

Children and staff will be implementing small changes at both schools that collectively make a positive impact.

Sophie Hampton and Tracy Soccorsy, Erasmus Project Coordinators for the Church Valley Schools Federation, commented: “Our two schools have been involved in Comenius and Erasmus-funded international projects for a number of years. We have formed strong relationships with our partner schools in Europe, and are pleased to welcome an additional Irish partner school to this new project.

“In such an uncertain climate, we are thrilled to have been awarded another substantial grant enabling us to continue and develop this valuable work.”