A school where 51 different languages are spoken is a shining example of how cultural diversity in education can not only help students succeed but opens their eyes to new experiences.

Winterbourne Nursery and Infant School  is a real example of community cohesion at work with languages spoken including: Urdu, Gujarati, Bengali, Spanish, Chinese, obviously English, and Twi but to name a few.   

The large multi–ethnic infant school, also has many different faiths, cultures and religions working alongside each other to learn in a nurturing and caring environment.

The school is hosting an art exhibition in July where every child in the school will exhibit a piece of art work.

The exhibition will showcase a range of art techniques and talent from ages three to seven.

Parents and carers will have the opportunity to visit the exhibition and to buy their child’s creation.

For most children attending the school this will be the first art exhibition they have ever visited!

Tony Ahmet, head teacher at Winterbourne, (pictured) said: “Being an inclusive school we believe that every child excels in their own way and that each child brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from which we all learn.

“As the headteacher of Winterbourne I am proud of the relationships I have established with students and parents. Mutual respect has been built through hard work and consistency in approach. Being flexible and amenable has enabled me to establish positive relationships with a wide audience, where trust and respect always remains key.

“I entered the teaching profession with a strong passion to ensure that all pupils, regardless of their ability, gender, culture and religion reach their potential. This is still the ethos which drives me and Winterbourne forward – plus I am supported by amazing, professional and committed staff.

“The school environment reflects the diversity of the pupils and community it serves and celebrates the pupils’ achievements. We have worked endlessly to ensure that our parents and carers feel a part of the school – their voices have helped us shape and lead the school in what is a very demanding and stressful time.

“Winterbourne Nursery and Infant School and the local community are unique and special. We should all feel very proud of our achievements and what we have to offer our pupils, as well as each other.”

WHAT IS TWI: Twi is a dialect of Akan, a member of the Kwa sub-group of Niger-Congo languages. There are about seven million Twi speakers, mainly in Ghana and also Thornton Heath!