An Abbots Langley school is one of the first of its kind to win the International School Award.

The award was presented to Breakspeare School at a ceremony at the British Council for its international links with schools, including another special school in Novgorod, Russia where exchange visits with staff and pupils have taken place.

Breakspeare School in Gallows Hill Lane, is now developing a link with a school in Northern Cape, South Africa.

John Addison, deputy headteacher of the special school and international co-ordinator said: "We have already exchanged much information, and the next step we are hoping for will be reciprocal visits next year by teachers from the two schools.

The award, which recognises schools' work in ensuring that there is a global dimension across the whole of its curriculum, is presented on behalf of the Department for Children Schools and Families.

The wider Watford community has also been involved, through working with West Herts College, Watford Borough Council and the Watford-Novgorod Friendship Society and with financial support from other local organisations.