PA Holds Its First International Evening

On10th May 2012, Paddington Academy held its first ever International Evening and celebrated the 65 different cultures represented by students and staff.

The idea behind the International Evening was first suggested during a Parents` Forum meeting as a way of celebrating the many different cultures of the academy’s students and staff.

Students worked collaboratively with a staff member who shared the same cultural heritage and together they looked at the best way of showcasing their culture. In preparation for the event, students have spent the past few weeks making banners, posters and flags, designing costumes, choreographing and rehearsing dance routines and preparing culinary delights. 

The academy was filled with the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of different cultures from around the world.  Visitors had the chance to sample authentic dishes from all the 6 continents which included Canada, The Caribbean, Egypt, France, India, Iran, Ireland, Nigeria, Spain, Sri Lanka to name just a few. They were treated to a variety of spectacular performances ranging from Bollywood, Kosovan, Sudanese, Bengali and Trinidadian dances, Jamaican gospel, reggae and poetry, Montserratian masquerade, Sri Lankan drumming and a stunning fashion show.  Students and staff took pride in representing their countries through wearing traditional clothes which resulted in a sparkling display of colour.

Ivonna Beches, Year 13 student, said: “This evening has been absolutely fantastic.  It was great seeing everyone in their cultural dress and to taste so many different types of food.  The evening felt like a whirlwind tour of the world and I can’t believe it all happened in our school hall!”

Nazihah Uddin, Year 10 student, said: “I am so very happy to take part in the International Evening. This is an amazing opportunity for me to represent my country and be proud of my culture and the traditions in it.”

Gina Lansley, who coordinated the event, said: “The International Evening showcased and highlighted the extraordinary cohesion that exists within Paddington Academy – the cultural diversity, the staff dedication and commitment and, above all, our fabulous student base.  It is hoped this will become an annual event, and who knows, it may even give the Notting Hill Carnival some competition in years to come! 

“This has truly been a whole community event as parents and wider family members have been galvanised by students’ enthusiasm and helped us put on this spectacular event.”The academy’s first ever international evening follows the news that the academy has been awarded the Cultural Diversity Diamond Award by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust which recognises the academy’s success in promoting community cohesion."