Lessons to be learned from across the world

Anna Corless, Dianne Neale and James Everett began their week-long trip to Durban on Saturday.

They were due to tour schools, researching the area of "thinking skills" and picking up inspiration for their own lessons back at school.

Mr Everett said: "I am sure it will bring a fresh approach to my teaching, and my pupils at the Vale will learn a lot about life and schooling in South Africa when I return."

The trip has been organised and funded by the League for Exchange of Commonwealth Teachers.

Teachers from Findon Valley will be joined by those from Davison High and Orchards Middle schools. More than 50 West Sussex teachers and advisers have been visiting schools in India, South Africa, Canada and Italy.

Mrs Corless said: "We are especially pleased to be visiting some rural bush schools and it will be fascinating to watch educators at work in such a different culture."

Mrs Neale said: "We are privileged to have the opportunity to visit a foreign country as professionals, not as tourists, and in this way gain a greater insight into cultural differences and how they are reflected in teaching."