At Bedford Academy, our commitment to broadening horizons goes beyond the classroom and, in this case, beyond borders.

Yesterday, we were proud to host Elsa Kebede, Country Director, and Hannah Dillion, School Links Coordinator, from Together We Learn, the UK-Ethiopian charity behind our school link with Edget Feleg Secondary School in Gondar, Ethiopia. The visit marked another chapter in a partnership that began in an unexpected way during the Covid-19 lockdown.

From Lockdown to Link School

In the early days of the pandemic, when we were limited to just 30 minutes of daily outdoor exercise, a creative idea took shape. Our school staff began logging their walking distances and combining them as a virtual journey. Before long, we had collectively "arrived" in Ethiopia. That imaginative challenge soon evolved into a meaningful school partnership, supported by Together We Learn.

A Day of Collaboration and Reflection

The visit followed a purposeful schedule, including student panels, project showcases and discussions about future collaboration.

The day began with a welcome from Headteacher, Chris Deller, and an introduction to the school context. This was followed by a session exploring the journey between Edget Feleg and Bedford Academy, led by Deputy Head, Laura Fordham.

A tour of the school allowed our guests to see first-hand the environment our students learn in each day. It was also a chance to reflect honestly on some of the challenges we face as a school, such as low aspiration and literacy concerns, particularly among specific groups of students.

Our sixth formers then led a student panel alongside Farida Nelson, our Community Liaison and Projects Lead. They shared their experiences from past joint projects, including postcard exchanges, collaborative art and English work, and a pen pal programme. They also shared their ideas for new projects in the 2025 to 2026 academic year. These kinds of opportunities give students a chance to take ownership of global learning, develop leadership skills, and strengthen their personal statements and UCAS applications.

A Story of Shared Purpose

Despite cultural and geographic differences, both schools share a deep belief in the value of education and the potential of their students. In Ethiopia, classes of up to 85 students, limited teaching time, and safety concerns for girls travelling long distances are daily realities. Yet students remain committed to their learning. The community has even begun building additional classrooms to reduce overcrowding, though construction has currently paused due to lack of funds.

Here in Bedford, our students are often struck by the resilience and optimism shown by their peers at Edget Feleg. One staff member commented that hearing what students in Ethiopia face, and how determined they are to succeed, helps to put our own challenges into perspective.

Looking Ahead

This visit reminded us of the power of connection. Whether through shared projects, curriculum links, or simple conversations, our partnership has created meaningful opportunities for empathy, learning and personal growth.

Together, we learn, and together we grow.

If you would like to support the partnership, please get in touch.